Isuzu zooms to record sales in 2017

MANILA, Philippines — Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) finished  2017 with record sales of 30,086 units, up 10 percent from the previous year’s 27,361 units.

IPC likewise posted its highest monthly sales in December at 3,809 units.

IPC marketing head Joseph Bautista earlier said a significant spike in sales should be expected in December before the higher automotive excise tax implementation.

For 2017, IPC said the strong sales figures were fueled by  the strong economic performance of the country, introduction of Blue Power Technology across all its models, and the consumers' anticipation for the implementation of the new tax reform law.

In terms of models, the company said major drivers included the Isuzu mu-X, D-MAX and the Crosswind.

A total of 13,157 Isuzu mu-X SUVs were sold last year, four percent more than the 12,657 units in 2016.

In December alone, the company said 1,997 mu-X units were sold.

Meanwhile, D-MAX pickup truck sales reached 4,675 units in 2017, an 18 percent jump from the previous year’s 3,966 units. December sales for the pick-up truck stood at 599 units.

Sales of the Crosswind model showed a slight 2.1 percent hike year-on-year to 4,755 units.

With its record performance in 2017, IPC president Hajime Koso said the company would continue to strive hard to provide the best to the Philippine market the Isuzu brand can offer.

"While we have reached greater heights this year, we will continue to provide and look for more ways to cater to everyone,” Koso said.

In September last year, IPC introduced its latest technology offering for all their available units locally in line with the celebration of its 20th anniversary in the local automotive industry.

Isuzu’s Blue Power Technology is an eco-friendly diesel engine designed to provide maximum engine output, cleaner emissions, superb fuel economy, as well as engine durability.