| With price-cutting
continuing to fuel growth in the small car
segment, Suzuki WA general manager Peter Reading
is predicting a bonanza for buyers as importers
vie with each other to add value and keep prices
down. "Six
months ago we were saying that the industry
wouldn't be able to maintain such tight
margins," says Mr Reading.
"Three months ago the
margins got even tighter. Now it looks like we're
in for another round of discounts, offers and
value-added incentives.
"For instance, it's
been just two months since we launched the new
Series ll Baleno and we've already restructured
our prices to bring the entry-level GL Sedan in
at $19,990 with free air-conditioning.
"It's never been more
competitive out there . . . it's making it tough
for the trade but it's a great time to buy a new
car."
Western Australian new-car
buyers have responded well to Suzuki WA's pricing
initiatives. In September, WA sales accounted for
more than 13 per cent of all Suzukis sold
nationally -- up from the more usual 10 to 11 per
cent and a figure significantly disproportionate
to WA's population.
"Given the market and
the level of competition, we've been pleased with
the response we've been getting," said Mr
Reading. " We're here for the long haul and
it's good to see that our strategies are paying
off."
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