Vehicle manufacturer Volkswagen South Africa, owners of the SEAT franchise in South Africa, announced on Friday that it will start a process to cease sales of new SEAT vehicles in South Africa.
“Current and expected circumstances make the ongoing importation of a niche brand in the South African market non-viable,” explained Mike Glendinning, director of sales and marketing, Volkswagen SA.
The manufacturer said it will continue to provide comprehensive after-sales support for the 2 600 SEAT models sold since launch in June 2006.
SEAT customers are being informed that continued after-sales service will be offered by a dedicated group of Volkswagen dealerships in South Africa. These dealerships currently service SEAT vehicles.
All warranties, service plans and roadside assistance relevant to the SEAT brand in South Africa will be honoured, the company said.
“Of paramount importance to us is the continued after sales care of our existing SEAT customer base. We will offer all existing SEAT customers a preferential deal, on the purchase of a new Volkswagen,” said Glendinning. — I-Net Bridge