Sportwagon Puts Commodore Back on Top

It appears that Mazda is not the only manufacturer enjoying sales success. Holden has today announced that its recently released Sportwagon has out-sold the leading models in the medium SUV segment for the month of August. A result that has returned the Commodore nameplate back to the top of the 'best sellers' list in the process.

In the Sportwagon's first full month of sales, 1509 examples have departed showroom floors, a figure that accounts for more than 30 percent of the 4814 Commodore sold during August. Monthly sales of Holden wagons are the highest they've been since November 2004, and up are 91 percent on August 2007.

In an industry struggling under the weight of an economic downturn and rising petrol prices, the Sportwagon has performed well against strong offerings in a highly competitive segment. GM Holden Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alan Batey, shared his thoughts on the Sportwagon's success:

“These early sales of Sportwagon underline that this type of family-sized vehicle continues to be attractive to Australians. It offers a new level of comfort, safety and styling in a Holden wagon, combined with sedan-like ride and handling characteristics. This makes Sportwagon attractive to businesses and a tempting alternative for traditional SUV buyers.”

The Sportwagon has plugged a notable gap in the Holden lineup, taking over from the VZ wagon which ceased production in late 2007. The strong initial sales performance of the Sportwagon, coupled with the booming sales of the Holden ute (up 76 percent this year and a substantial 157 percent on the equivalent month last year), sees Holden continue to lead the charge in the large car market.