Honda posts record sales in 2017

MANILA, Philippines — Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) posted its highest annual sales in 2017, accelerating more than twice faster than the industry. 

The Japanese auto giant’s business unit in the Philippines said it sold 31,758 units last year, 37 percent more from 23,199 units in 2016 and surpassing the industry growth of 18 percent as earlier reported by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and Truck Manufacturers Association during the same period.

In December alone, HCPI recorded a 77 percent year-on-year surge in sales with 4,961 units.

The firm attributed its record 2017 performance to the strong demand for the City, BR-V, and Civic models as well as the successful launch of the All-New CR-V in August.

The City, which remained Honda’s best-selling model, registered a six percent year-on-year sales growth in 2017 with 9,430 units.

The BR-V, a seven-seater gasoline SUV, enjoyed a successful first full-year in the Philippine market as it became the brand’s second highest selling model with 7,212 vehicles sold last year, HCPI said.

The Civic, meanwhile, achieved a record full-year performance with sales of 4,146 units, a 66-percent jump compared to 2016.

Since its launch in August until last month, the All-New CR-V sold 2,799 units. HCPI said the model was received strongly by the local market.

“On behalf of Honda Cars Philippines Inc. we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to our customers for continuously making Honda their preferred brand. We are fully committed to continuing our dedication of putting our customers first and in delivering high quality products and services in partnership with our dealerships. We look forward to serving and satisfying more Filipino Customers this year and making their dreams of owning a Honda come true,” HCPI president and general manager Noriyuki Takakura said.