KARACHI: Sales of cars assembled locally rose 55 per cent to 60,081 units during the four months to October from 38,862 a year ago, according to figures of Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA).

In 1,300cc and above, Toyota Corolla remained the most sought-after car as its sales swelled to 18,424 units from 12,645.

Combined sales of Honda Civic and City rose to 8,059 units from 6,622. However, volumes of Civic, which has been struggling due to competition from Corolla, are expected to dry out the in coming months in anticipation of new model’s launch in July 2016.

Also read: Major carmakers to introduce new models next year

Backed by Punjab taxi scheme, Suzuki Bolan sales soared to 13,019 units from 4,228. Sales of other brands of the car maker rose, too, as Mehran sales increased to 11,849 units from 8,664, Swift to 1,298 from 1,223, WagonR to 2,569 from 1,288, Cultus to 4,860 from 4,245 units.

Mohammad Tahir Saeed of Topline Securities said taxi scheme, low interest rates and overall improvement in the economic situation played a crucial role in lifting car sales.

Published in Dawn, November 12th, 2015

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