MOTORING NEWS - Subaru has been operating in South Africa for just over twenty-five years and has experienced a loyal customer base and sales growth - even during times of economic challenge.
In 2017 the automotive industry in South Africa reported poor growth figures largely due to declining business and consumer confidence.
The year ended with a modest gain of 1,9% for new vehicle sales compared to 2016.
In contrast, Subaru SA enjoyed a 10% increase year-on-year and the gains look set to continue.
Subaru SA 2017 retail sales concluded at 1 002 new units.
In a market that saw a number of automotive brands choosing to opt out of doing business in South Africa, this sales success is significant.
Such is the confidence in the brand that Subaru SA's national footprint is set to expand at a rapid rate in 2018.
In 2018, four new dealerships will open on the East Rand, West Rand, in Pretoria and South Rand, to complete a series of six new dealership launches in under 12 months.
"We've received a lot of scrutiny and questions from the media over our sustainability in this market given the tough economy and the recent departure of some other automotive brands.
"These new dealerships as well as our sales success should put aside any doubt that we're here to stay and we're here to excel at bringing 'Confidence in Motion' to more South Africans," says Morné Viviers, general manager of retail at Subaru SA.
The sales success appears to be a global trend.
Subaru Australia reported growth of 12% in a flat market and Subaru of America grew 6% in a market that declined 1%.
Viviers puts it down to the essence of what Subaru stands for.
"Subaru is building products that are reliable, full of character, daring for adventure and incredibly safe. Consumers need this sort of dependability and confidence and that's why they continue to choose Subaru and remain so very loyal."
2017 saw the launch of the new Subaru Impreza and Subaru XV, both award-winning for everything from safety to interior design.
This year again, the duo has won the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick + safety rating, making them the safest cars in their class for the second time running.
In February 2018, Subaru SA will launch the updated Subaru Legacy Executive Sedan and the updated Subaru Outback crossover, both with a host of new design and safety features, including the highly rated EyeSight driver assist technology.
'We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news'
