Suzuki posts 117.7% Middle East sales growth in 2008

The company sold more than 24,000 units during the year and will introduce additional models such as the 'Celerio' from subsidiary Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. in 2009 to sustain its momentum in the region's burgeoning automobile markets.

Suzuki's Middle East performance was driven mainly by strong sales of its Swift, Grand Vitara and SX4 models. Suzuki produced 1 million units of the Swift worldwide in 2008; the compact car has gained a significant following among Arab youth due to its sporty features and enhanced performance.

The 2009 version of the popular Grand Vitara sports-utility vehicle was recently introduced, offering improved design and comfort while retaining its superior off-road handling. The mid-size SX4 sedan was launched in the Middle East in 2008 and immediately emerged as a major contributor to regional sales due to its renowned blend of excellent safety, comfort and handling features.

Takeo Fukuda, Group Leader, Middle East and Africa, Marketing Group (Automobile), Suzuki Motor Corp. said, "Our solid performance in 2008 affirms the trust that our Middle Eastern customers have given our brand. We shall continue to launch new models within the year in recognition of the Middle East's status as one of our biggest regional markets. Suzuki will unveil several programs and services to reward the loyalty and confidence of its patrons."

Suzuki credits its impressive Middle Eastern sales to its successful market expansion strategy and extensions to its regional model lineup. Maruti Suzuki, the manufacturer of the new Celerio, is India's largest passenger car company and accounts for more than 50% of the country's automobile market.

Celerio - the five-door hatchback - is powered by a state-of-the-art, lightweight new K10B petrol engine and features best-in-class fuel efficiency. The car is expected to attract buyers looking for high performance, well-designed and fuel-economic automobiles.