Sales of Cadillac vehicles in the Middle East in the first half of 2010 grew 29% over the same period in 2009, for a total of 1,617 units. This double digit increase in regional sales of Cadillac vehicles outpaced the industry, which experienced an estimated nine percent growth.
In Saudi Arabia, the region's largest market, Cadillac sales in the first half of 2010 increased by 52% over the same period last year, the UAE grew by 27%, Kuwait went up by 30% and Lebanon grew by 56%.
First half 2010 Cadillac unit sales in the region's three largest markets were 560 in Saudi Arabia, followed by 356 in the UAE and 304 in Kuwait, and expectations are high for the remainder of 2010.
The star performer in the Cadillac portfolio has been the Escalade, whose first half 2010 sales grew by 11% over the same period in 2009, followed by the CTS entry level luxury sedan and the SRX luxury crossover utility vehicle. Quickly sold out during the first three months of its regional launch, the all-new SRX is still highly demanded at dealerships around the region, and is expected to close 2010 as a top seller.
The first half 2010 growth in sales was a marked departure from the same challenging period in 2009. Cadillac expects sales to increase for the remainder of 2010, especially later in the third quarter, with the anticipated launches of the CTS coupe and CTS-V coupe.
"Cadillac has successfully grown its customer base by attracting a younger audience with a boldly designed product lineup. This, coupled with the peace of mind that our four years' free service and maintenance provides, means that we can expect Cadillac to strengthen its position as a leader in the premium segment," said Thierry Sabbagh, Cadillac Brand Manager in the Middle East.
