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New Maruti Zen in great demand in Sri Lanka

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T V Sriram Press Trust of India Colombo
The latest Maruti-suzuki-Zen car that was designed to take on the other major competitors in the small-car segment in India, has become a rage in Sri Lanka.

Associated Motorways (AWW), the sole agent for Suzuki-Maruti in the island country has placed orders for Zen cars from the Suzuki manufacturing plant in India following high demand.

Despite the fact that prospects for car sales in Sri Lanka was not attractive as in other countries due to the country's economic condition, Maruti-Suzuki has found high demand for its latest zen version.

Total car sales in Sri Lanka in 2006 was estimated at over 26,500. This year, however,the figures may not be encouraging. But, it is felt that tax concessions from the Sri Lankan government under the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement would help revive automobile demand from India and improve sales.

A spokesman for the Maruti Suzuki, erstwhile Maruti Udyog, sales centre at Borella near Colombo told the 'Sunday Observer' that the first shipment of Zen has been reserved only for 'car permit' holders.

"It will take at least two months for the cars to arrive in Sri lanka," he said, adding that the car's futuristic design and a high spirited engine has attracted small car lovers.

"With a tried and tested engine, the new Zen Estilo is undoubtedly a stylish package that should attract a number of young buyers," the newspaper commented in its special page on automobiles.

 

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First Published: Oct 16 2007 | 11:31 AM IST

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