Car sales grow in NSW

Car sales in New South Wales are on the rise, according to figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive industries (FCAI).

Sales are up by 5.1 per cent compared to the same time last year. The healthy trend in car sales that started in early 2015 seems to be continuing.

Statistics also indicate that the Toyota Corolla, which took top spot as Australia’s best selling car in 2014, continues to hold on to its coveted position.

Change in customer preferences

According to FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber, Australian preferences are changing. More buyers are opting for SUVs and light commercial vehicles. Passenger vehicle sales do not seem to elicit the same enthusiasm from the market.

“Total SUV purchases increased 23.8 per cent on February 2014 figures,” says Mr Weber.

He added the March figures for passenger vehicle sales were down 6.6 per cent compared to February 2014. Vehicle purchases for commercial purposes also fell by 3 per cent.

How does NSW compare with the rest of Australia?

The FCAI figures show sales in February improved 10 per cent compared to January, across all of Australia.

All states experienced an increase in sales, expect Western Australia – where sales dropped by 6.1 per cent.

Vehicle purchases rose 2.6 per cent in Australian Capital Territory, 5.1 per cent in New South Wales, 10.9 per cent in the Northern Territory, 4.9 per cent in Queensland, 6.1 per cent in South Australia, 11.6 per cent in Tasmania and 5.7 per cent in Victoria.