Australians are buying four-wheel-drive vehicles at near pre-crisis levels, leading a record 25 per cent jump in total vehicle sales in the year to March, industry figures show.
Data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) shows 94,744 passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles were sold in March, up 19,094 vehicles, or 25.2 per cent, on the corresponding month in 2009.
It beat by 352 vehicles the prior record set in 2007.
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'Outstanding result'
"This is an outstanding March result and provides further evidence that the marketplace is returning to pre-global financial crisis levels," FCAI chief executive Andrew McKellar said.
SUV sales surged in March, increasing by 44.1 per cent, followed by passenger cars, up 23.5 per cent, heavy commercial vehicles, up 20.2 per cent, and light commercial vehicles were up 12 per cent.
For the year to March, 251,827 vehicles were sold, an increase of 38,857 vehicles, or 18.2 per cent, compared to the first three months of 2009.
The survey also showed sales to car rental companies increased 331.5 per cent during March, in line with increased tourism and business activity.
Toyota retained the top selling position in March, increasing its market share to 21.4 per cent, followed by Holden with 12.4 per cent and Ford with 8.5 per cent.
'Renewed growth'
Mr McKellar said business sales showed some signs of easing following the phase out of targeted tax breaks.
"But it is pleasing to see renewed growth from private buyers," he said.
"With warnings of further interest rate rises, private buyers should move to take advantage of the current rate
