FOR only the second time in history, Australians bought more then one million cars in 2008, despite the economic brakes being applied over the last two months of the year.
Official VFACTS data released today by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries shows that 1,012,164 passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles were sold in 2008 - down 3.6 per cent or 37,818 vehicles compared to 2007.
Although sales fell in November and December there was enough momentum to carry the total over the magic million mark.
FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar said sales were expected to drop in 2009 to 880,000 vehicles.
The last time sales slipped below 900,000 was in 2002 when 824,309 vehicles were sold.
"We must be realistic about the outlook for the year ahead and acknowledge the impact that the global financial crisis is having on the broader economy," Mr McKellar said.
"Nonetheless there are positives that will underpin demand in 2009, including lower fuel prices, reduced interest rates and the impact of additional fiscal measures implemented by the Federal Government."
Toyota was Australia's best-selling brand in 2008 with 238,983 vehicles (23.6 per cent market share) followed by Holden with 130,338 (12.9 per cent of the market) and Ford with 104,715 vehicle sales (10.3 per cent market share).
Light commercial vehicles, led by the four-wheel drive ute segment again proved to be the backbone of sales.
Light commercials were up 4.2 per cent while passenger cars fell 6.3 per cent, SUV sales dipped 1.9 per cent and heavy commercials were down 3.5 per cent.
