Australians bought 94,978 new passenger cars, and commercial vehicles last month – a 2.5% rise in overall sales (2316 units) more than in September 2013.
The big growth last month came on the back of a renewed love for the SUV, as Australians purchased a record number of them.
Releasing the September 2014 VFACTS figures, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) chief executive Tony Weber notes the rise in the SUV segment, with 14.6% more SUVs sold in the month than in September 2013. Light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales also rose 2.9%, however, the passenger car market continues to fall with sales dropping 4.1%.
“SUV sales have been strong in 2014, with year-to-date sales in the segment up 4.8% compared to the same YTD period in 2013. In particular, the popularity of the small SUV segment continues to rise with sales for the month up 31.1% compared to September 2013, and YTD sales up 17.4% compared to the January to September 2013 period,” Weber says.
A prime example, was Jeep selling 2900 units in September, propelling one of Australia’s more popular SUV brands into the top 10 list of best-selling manufacturers for the first time, and leaping another spot to 12th on the 2014 YTD best-seller list.
The Mazda CX-5 SUV also continues to be a popular choice with 2093 sales last month. Not only was this a September record, but it was the second time this year that over 2000 CX-5s were sold.
Toyota Australia divisional manager of national sales, Scott Thompson echoes Weber and comments: “September marked a turning point for the industry. All indicators are for a strong fourth quarter with substantial emphasis on the SUV growth market and key passenger vehicle segments.”
New car sales to the business community continue to fall in 2014, with business purchases in September down 3.8% compared to September 2013. But private purchases increased 6.7% and government purchases increased 5.8%.
YTD business purchases are down 7.7%, while private sales are up 1.6% and government purchases are up 6%.
Private purchases of SUVs and LCV’s continue to rise, with private buyers purchasing 22% more SUVs and 7.8% more LCV’s in September 2014, compared to September 2013.
“The increase in SUV and light commercial vehicle purchases by private buyers is a reflection of the versatility these vehicles provide and the increasing range of SUVs and light commercial vehicles available in the market,” Weber notes.
Join the conversation