Diesel Car Sales Reach Record in Q1

Diesel car sales have reached an all-time high in Korea, thanks largely to continued heavy demand for SUVs.

Industry figures show nearly 150,000 Korean and imported diesel vehicles were sold here in the first three months of the year, up more than 20 percent from last year.

Market insiders attribute the surge to steady demand for recreational vehicles and more Korean consumers looking for fuel efficiency.

Diesel vehicles made up over 44 percent of total car sales in the first quarter, a record high.

With the summer approaching -- peak season for SUV sales -- industry insiders say there is a good chance diesel cars will outstrip regular gasoline cars in sales for the first time ever this year.