Suzuki SA ends sales year on a high – and there’s more to come!
- Suzuki sales soar despite weaker market
- Demand boosted by several new models
- Dealer network expansion adds convenient representation
- Exciting new models planned for 2015
- Motorcycle and marine divisions also shine
Suzuki Auto South Africa can look back on a successful 2014 during which marque set a string of new sales records, introduced a number of new products, and expanded its national dealer network. The company’s positive performance is especially gratifying against a market typified by difficult trading conditions and lower consumer demand. Global sales were very positive too at 2.8 million units plus 2 million motorcycles.
Suzuki vehicle sales were up 33 percent year on year, while the overall vehicle market softened by 0,7 percent, compared to 2013 levels. Passenger car sales were down 2,5 percent, while Suzuki’s 2014 passenger car sales rose by 31,8 percent compared to 2013 levels.
The 2014 calendar year also saw Suzuki achieve its single highest monthly sales figure, with 676 units retailed in September, while its all-time best passenger car share of 1,79 percent was recorded in November.
Suzuki Auto SA’s best-selling model in 2014 was the Swift, which recorded total annual sales of 2 604 units. Demand for the subcompact hatchback was bolstered by the budget-friendly 1,2-litre derivative, helping to up total annual Swift sales by an impressive 77,5 percent, compared to the 2013 tally.
“Suzuki Auto SA’s accelerating sales performance was boosted by the arrival of several new models during the course of 2014, including the all-new SX4 crossover, the DZire compact sedan, the Ertiga life utility vehicle and the Splash mini MPV,” says Charl Grobler, manager of product planning and sales.
“We also introduced updates to key models such as the ever popular Swift and the versatile Grand Vitara, while extending our retail network to 40 dealers has brought Suzuki and its products to more Southern African doorsteps than ever before.”
He is bullish about the marque’s prospects for 2015, despite indications that the tough trading conditions are unlikely to ease over the next 12 months.
“South Africa is one of the most competitive new vehicle markets in the world, in which consumers are spoilt for choice. That said, we are confident that our ever expanding product offering in key market segments will resonate with an increasing number of local buyers.”
Suzuki Auto SA is preparing to launch several new, exciting products during 2015, some of which will compete in segments new to the brand. This month will see the arrival of an all-new ultracompact hatchback, the Celerio, which takes over from the successful Alto.
Local buyers can also look forward to an all-new compact sedan. “The brand new Ciaz will be an exciting addition to our model line-up. It’s set to offer buyers a powerful mix of style, interior space and comfort, fuel efficiency, safety and value,” Grobler concluded.
Suzuki also fared well on the motorcycle front, where the brand recorded a sales increase of more than 10 percent in the larger bike arena. That trend is expected to continue in 2015, with the launch of the new GSX-S1000 and GSX-S1000F later this year set to boost interest significantly.
The new Suzuki RV125 and DRZ-70 launched late in 2014 have already proven their popularity, with the first shipment completely sold out. New models confirmed for release during the course of the year include the compact Burgman 200 scooter, and the adventure market-oriented DL650 XAL.
Not to be outdone, Suzuki’s marine division can also look back on a strong sales performance in 2014 – including the successful launch of the DF30 – with the prognosis for 2015 equally positive. The brand currently enjoys a 35,8 percent share of the South African 4-stroke outboard motor market, up from 34,6 percent for the 2013 calendar year.
An early highlight this year will be the much anticipated release of the DF200 outboard motor. The highly advanced, eco-friendly newcomer is a four-stroke, four cylinder V6 with a 2,8-litre capacity, and is due for launch later this month.
