Kiwis Still Prefer ‘Super Size’ On The Roads

Kiwis Still Prefer ‘Super Size’ On The Roads

The strong New Zealand dollar has helped fuel Kiwis’ enthusiasm for large vehicles, as demand for larger sized cars surged in the third quarter of 2007, with a quarter-on-quarter increase of 13 per cent, according to used car sales statistics released today by Turners Auctions.

This is the second quarter in a row that sales of larger category cars (3000cc and above) have increased with the category registering a 27 per cent increase on the company’s first quarter sales. Large car sales now account for 10.8 per cent of Turners’ overall vehicle sales.

Turners General Manager Marketing Todd Hunter says the strong Kiwi dollar is the main reason for the continued increase in larger vehicle sales, reflecting steady petrol prices that make running larger cars more affordable.

“The strong Kiwi dollar has kept petrol prices down and provided Kiwis with an extended period of grace to enjoy the large vehicles that we’re so passionate about. This is likely to last until we see a drop off in the New Zealand dollar. However when it does we can expect to see a sharp turnaround as the impact of increased running costs takes effect,” says Mr Hunter.

While the Subaru Legacy continues to be New Zealand’s top selling second-hand vehicle, the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon have moved into the top five most popular cars for the first time, sitting in positions three and five respectively. In fact the Commodore was the biggest mover jumping five places from eighth in the second quarter.

Toyota (22.4 per cent) and Nissan (15.2 per cent) are still the most popular makes of car by manufacturer share. Again, Holden was a notable mover in this category, registering sales growth of 18 per cent since the second quarter, and 37 per cent since the first quarter, to total 5.2 per cent of Turners’ overall vehicle sales. Ford sales have also grown by 10 per cent since the second quarter and 20 per cent since the first quarter to total 8.9 per cent of overall sales.

By contrast, Honda has experienced a 15 per cent decrease in sales since the second and first quarters and is now sitting on 8.3 per cent of overall vehicle sales.

Sales of silver cars are down by 5.5 per cent over the quarter, though it is still the colour of choice for second hand car buyers (23.7 per cent) followed closely by white (21.7 per cent). Sales of black cars were up 12 per cent over the quarter to total 5.5 per cent.

“As the largest seller of used cars in New Zealand, Turners’ sales figures provide an accurate reflection of a vehicle's value. This information is available to all our customers so they can ensure they are paying the right price for any vehicle at auction,” says Mr Hunter.

ENDS

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