New Hyundai Dealership Opens in Baghdad amid Recent Violence

Although the war is "over" there is little doubt the dealer principal hardly could have expected the recent escalation in violence, not a particularly stable

The new dealership sold close to 40 cars in its first week, although understandably none have been flashy coupes. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada)

environment to conduct business. Nevertheless most North American dealerships would be overjoyed to experience anything near the Baghdad retailer's initial success, selling nearly 40 cars within the first week.

"We have sold 38 Hyundais already, but no coupes," commented Nihad Abdul Rahman, assistant general manager of Al-Kasid, exclusive agents for selling Hyundai Motor Co. cars in Iraq, in reference to a red Tiburon sports coupe displayed in the showroom. "They are considered too flashy in these circumstances," he added.

No doubt most Iraqis are just happy to have access to simple transportation, many of whom lost their cars in the

"Iraqis are looking for something affordable and reliable, and Hyundai fits the bill." (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

altercations. After all, with gasoline only costing about a penny per liter and prices for new vehicles lower than most anywhere else in the world Rahman and his Hyundai dealership should succeed.

"Iraqis are looking for something affordable and reliable, and Hyundai fits the bill," Rahman said after closing a deal with retired officer Khalaf Ganabi for a $10,200 Elantra. Happy with his purchase Ganabi said, "I have not had a new car since the 1960s."

The two-story dealership is in a better part of town, next to the upscale German embassy. It sells a full range of Hyundai models, from the racy coupe at USD$17,500 down to the subcompact Getz at USD$7,200.