December’s statistics haven’t been compiled yet, but according to the Pakistan Automotive Manufactures Association, Pakistan’s bestselling car since 2008 is the Toyota Corolla. It comes in three versions, the Xli, Gli and Altis, each offering significant difference in transmission (automatic/manual) and engine size ( 1.3-1.8 liters), with price levels that appeal to consumers in the middle-upper income strata. Other reasons for its success are Toyota’s reputation for safety as well as tremendous resale value (often retaining 65% of its original cost).
Price Range for a new Corolla: Rs 1.5-2.2 million. Providing stiff competition is the most successful car in Pakistan’s auto history, the Suzuki Mehran. A first generation Alto, it was re-branded after its launch in 1989 and is still manufactured in the same form. A low retail price (although now exorbitantly expensive to same), low maintenance costs, easily available parts and reasonable resale value have led sales for the better part of the last decade; it is the second highest selling car in 2012 and in close contention to becoming the bestselling car of the year.
Price range for a new Mehran: Rs 575,000-632,000. With the Suzuki Alto and Daihatsu Cuore decommissioned, the only other option for buyers in the 800, 1,000cc category is the Suzuki Cultus is considerable more expensive compared to Mehran and although its durability is just as unquestioned, it does not retain a comparable a resale value. The Cultus is currently the third bestselling car of the outgoing year, but whereas the top two cars have market shares inching towards 30 % the Cultus only commands 8.2%. Price of a new Cultus: Rs 985,000
By Shayan Shakeel