Suzuki Saudia, distributor for Japanese automaker Suzuki in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has recorded a 65 percent increase in sales of minivans in the first half of 2006 compared to the same period the previous year. Suzuki Saudia attributed the rise in sales to growing recognition of Suzuki vehicle’s versatility, toughness and resale value, paired with an increase in corporate buyers placing large orders. The regional distributor has cemented market share with its All Purpose Vehicles (APVs) in the region’s largest car market. Suzuki’s All Purpose Vehicles (APV) portfolio includes passenger vans, commercial vans and pickup trucks, and recently launched family car models.
“Suzuki’s minivans and trucks have established a reputation for being extremely reliable and cost effective, driving up consumer acceptance of Suzuki as a dominant player in the category. Suzuki is already prominent in the individual consumer market, and recent increases in vehicle size and engine capacity have seen corporate customers also adopting Suzuki minivans and trucks for their load bearing capacity and economic efficiency,” said Ahmed Shamaile, Director of Sales, Suzuki Saudia
Suzuki Saudia has registered positive growth in sales of blind vans to FMCG companies, courier service providers, and restaurants. Sales for commercial passenger vans with an 8-person seating capacity have also jumped, with restaurants, retail outlets and small businesses placing the majority of orders.
Suzuki Saudia’s sales have also been bolstered by the success of its high-end minivans. The well-appointed family carriers are capable of catering for up to for 8 passengers, and are equipped with amenities such as airbags, dual air conditioning, CD player and aesthetic touches such as alloy wheels.
Sheikh Omar Bamarouf, General Manager of Suzuki Saudia said, “Our high end family APVs successfully target large low to middle-income families looking for convenient transport with all needed amenities. Suzuki’s family APV models have seen success due to their combination of form and function – competitive pricing coupled with stylish design, high comfort and quality performance.”
The Suzuki APV comes in two models-the GLX model with automatic transmission and the GI model with a five-speed manual gear. A powerful engine, an excellent braking system, power steering, smooth front and rear suspension contribute to the Suzuki APV’s appeal.
