Hyundai Motor Company has announced a 25% increase in sales in Saudi Arabia 2015, maintaining its position as the second biggest manufacturer in the Kingdom with a 21% share of overall car sales. In a fiercely competitive market, where consumers seek premium design and value for money, the Korean manufacturer has significantly outperformed the market, which witnessed an overall growth of just under 5%. Sales are testament to the ongoing support of Hyundai’s local distributor partners Al Wallan Trading Company, Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors and Al Majdouie Motors.
The increase, in total cars sold, maintained the Kingdom’s position as Hyundai Motor Company’s biggest market in the Middle East. Driven by sedan sales, Hyundai delivered 184,535 cars to customers in 2015. It comes as no surprise that the key driver of growth remains the Elantra 5th generation of this compact sedan, which saw a 25% increase in sales since 2014. This model was upgraded in January with the launch of the All-New Hyundai Elantra, which combines dynamic styling and high quality materials at an affordable price point. In close second was the subcompact Hyundai Accent, which witnessed a 19% increase. Meanwhile, the All-New Sonata, a segment leading mid-size sedan, grew in popularity with a 44% rise in overall sales.
Hyundai’s burgeoning SUV offering also went from strength to strength with the Santa Fe taking pole position, thanks to a 19% increase in sales. This model was closely followed by the Tucson, which saw a 16% increase. Sales of this model were bolstered in August, thanks to the launch of the All-New Tucson which boasts a bold and athletic design and class-leading driving performance. During November 2015 Hyundai introduced the Creta, which marks the Korean manufacturer’s entry into the sub-compact SUV class.
Commenting on the outstanding sales performance, Jin (James) Kim Vice President and Head of Operations for Hyundai Africa and Middle East, said: “We are committed to delivering modern premium vehicles which are technologically advanced and catering to our Saudi customer base. This year, we have a host of exciting launches planned, starting with the introduction of the Genesis brand, which is set to compete with the world’s leading luxury car brands. During 2016, we will look to build on our positive 2015 performance by continuing to work with Al Wallan Trading Company, Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors and Al Majdouie our important distributor partners.”
Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is committed to becoming a lifetime partner in automobiles and beyond. The company, which leads the Hyundai Motor Group, an innovative business structure capable of circulating resources from molten iron to finished cars, offers top-quality bestsellers such as Elantra, Sonata and Genesis.
Hyundai Motor has eight manufacturing bases and seven design and technical centers worldwide and in 2015, sold 4.96 million vehicles globally. With almost 100,000 employees worldwide, Hyundai Motor continues to enhance its product line-up with localized models and strives to strengthen its leadership in clean technology, starting with the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen-powered vehicle, ix35 Fuel Cell. — SG
