While sales of new vehicles in South Africa appeared to be slowing down, demand for Suzuki Auto South Africa's range of passenger cars continued to accelerate.

The brand's share of the overall passenger car market was at its highest level since December 2009, and its year-on-year growth was the second-highest in the industry. That despite a new vehicle market that continued showing signs of decline.

According to vehicle sales figures released by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), this week, passenger car sales were down 2.5% year-on-year in November. In the year-to-date, passenger car sales had dropped by 3.4%.

Despite these negative indicators, Suzuki Auto's year-to-date sales were up by 32.3%, proving that demand for the brand's expanding range of compact passenger cars and sports utility vehicles continued to grow.

"While the market is experiencing difficult trading conditions, Suzuki Auto continues to set new benchmarks," said Suzuki Auto South Africa product planning and sales manager Charl Grobler.

He attributed the brand's strong showing to a strategy of model range expansion, which saw the introduction of several new products during 2014.

"This year, our model offering was strengthened by the arrival of the all-new SX4 crossover, the Ertiga seven-seater life utility vehicle, the Splash mini multipurpose vehicle, the frugal Swift 1.2 hatchback, and the Swift DZire subcompact sedan.

"Due to public demand, an automatic transmission version of the iconic Jimny 4x4 was also added to the range – and we have more exciting plans in the pipeline for 2015.

"Suzuki Auto has already sold more cars this year than in any other year since commencing business in the country, while our dealer network continues to grow, with 12 new dealers opening their doors in the second half of 2014 alone. A total of 40 dealers now ensure convenient representation across the entire country," Grobler stated.