Sinjar car market grows with locals favoring classic and mid-range models over hybrids

SINJAR— Residents of Sinjar are showing little interest in hybrid cars, favoring instead classic engines and four-wheel-drive vehicles, according to local car dealers.

Dealers told 964media that Toyota Hilux remains the top choice in the market, followed by China’s Great Wall, Germany’s BMW, and the Toyota Camry. Lower-priced models, particularly Kia Elantra, Cerato, Forte, and Picanto, priced between $10,000 and $15,000, are in high demand and sell quickly.

Hadi Khalaf, owner of Al-Asdiqa showroom, said: “Residents of Sinjar prefer cars priced between 10,000 and 15,000 USD, like Kia Cerato, Elantra, and Picanto. Demand is good after life has returned to our city.”

Other dealers confirmed that Toyota Hilux, Camry, and small Kia trucks are among the most popular, while hybrid vehicles see little demand.

Several new showrooms have recently opened in the district, which dealers say reflects both the economic recovery attempts of the area and residents’ determination to move forward after years of hardship following Islamic State assault in the area.