Car sales up as many rush to buy before CNY

PETALING JAYA: It's old wheels for new as the Chinese usher in the Year of the Dragon.

This is the time when many trade in their cars for new models, while first-time buyers among the Chinese also target their purchases in time for Chinese New Year.

Several car companies reported brisk sales, with some salesmen running out of stock due to overwhelming demand.
Sales pick up: Sales adviser Ahmad Shahrul Nazmi attending a customer at a car showroom in Bangsar Saturday.

Ecstatic car owner Kingston Chua, 34, who just inked a deal for his new Kia Forte, said it would be the “perfect Chinese New Year present”.

“I wanted it for Christmas but the timing worked out better this way. I figured 2012 is the time for me to upgrade to a new car,” said the interior designer.

Naza Group joint group executive chairman SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin said sales were up and there was an increase in showroom traffic due to the introduction of new models.

“Customers have been booking in advance to get their cars out in time for Chinese New Year,” he said.

He said customers were showing marked interest in the new Optima, Sportage and Sorento for Kia models while the Peugeot 308 was also a strong seller.

Proton Holdings Bhd reported that sales were up by 10%.

“The new Exora is fast becoming a preferred choice for consumers in the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment while the Proton Saga has always been the best selling model due to its price and package,” a company official said.

Proton assured customers that it has sufficient stock to meet demand over the festive period.

Honda Malaysia also reported an increase in sales.

“Customers want to own a brand new car and enjoy it with their family members during the festive season,” an official said, adding that customers also preferred cars registered in 2012 as the resale value would be better.

It said its Insight Hybrid model was a best-seller among “green- minded” customers.

A UMW Toyota salesman at the SS19 showroom said there was no more stock for the Camry, Altis, Vios and Hilux models.