Volkswagen Middle East announces a sales increase of 23% in 2008

Volkswagen Middle East wrapped up 2008 by setting a new record with regional deliveries exceeding 11,000 vehicles, marking a sales increase of 23% compared to 2007.

This growth in sales demonstrates Volkswagen Middle East's growing prominence in the automotive sector in this region.

Joerg Andrischock, Acting Managing Director of Volkswagen Middle East said,

"Since the opening of the regional office in Dubai in 2005, we have witnessed a vast expansion year on year, with a marked sales increase of 89% since 2005 and 2008 was no exception."

The Touareg confirmed its special position as the most popular Volkswagen car in the Middle East, representing 28% of Volkswagen's total sales for 2008. Following closely behind was the Jetta, which contributed to 22% of total sales, and the Passat, which accounted for 21%. The Eos is another model that still captivates customers around the region and had the biggest growth increase of 44% compared to 2007.

The regional launch of the new compact sports utility vehicle, the Tiguan, in May 2008 contributed to the significant increase in sales. The Tiguan has been a phenomenal success story for Volkswagen around the world, achieving record sales and several global and regional accolades including the recent 'Best Compact SUV Car' of the year from AUTOCAR Middle East 2008 Awards.

Yemen proved to be one of Volkswagen Middle East's biggest growth markets with sales tripling over the past year. Following this growth pattern was Kuwait, where sales more than doubled in 2008 compared to the previous year. In addition, Lebanon witnessed exponential growth of 64% in sales compared to 2007. The UAE remained the biggest market in terms of volume with over 4000 vehicles delivered to customers in 2008.

Commenting on the future of Volkswagen in the region Joerg Andrischock said, "For 2009, we are looking at a more challenging year due to the global economic situation; however we are still confident that we will witness a considerable amount of sales with the launch of our new models, including the first four-door coupé from Volkswagen, the Passat CC, the legendary Scirocco and new generation of the iconic Golf."