Official VFACTS data released today by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) shows continued strong growth in vehicle sales for 2012 with 97,616 passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles sold in March. 

This is a 3.9 per cent increase (or 3,632 vehicles) compared to the same month in 2011. On a year to date basis, the strong results are also a 4.7% per cent increase (or 11,658 vehicles) on the same period last year. 

“SUVs continue to dominate Australian car sales, accounting for 28 per cent of all new car sales so far this year,” FCAI Chief Executive, Ian Chalmers said. “Combined with small passenger cars (23.6 per cent) and light passenger cars (13.0 per cent), these three segments make up 64.6 per cent of new cars sold this year.” 

While all categories of SUV have grown in sales, two passenger car categories have also shown strong growth compared with 2011. Medium passengers car sales are up 17.7 per cent (3,139) since the same time last year, while sales of sports cars have also sprung back with an increase of 31.2 per cent (1,142) compared with the same period. 

“Yet again, the VFACTS data give us an overarching message – Australians will buy the cars that best meet their varied lifestyles, expectations and hip pockets,” Ian Chalmers said. 

The sales of locally manufactured vehicles are up almost 20 per cent compared to the same period last year. 

Toyota was the best performing brand in March selling 18,461 vehicles, followed by Holden with 10,196 and then Mazda with 9,345. 

VFACTS monthly auto sales data is available at 12 noon on the 3rd working day after the end of every month at www.fcai.com.au 

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Sheena Ireland, Communications Manager
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