New car sales slow

Australia's new vehicle sales slowed for a second month in May as petrol prices surged, deterring buyers. Sport utility vehicles had the biggest decline.

Toyota maintained its lead over General Motors' Holden unit as the top seller for a 14th month.

Total car sales decreased 0.6 per cent to 83,457 vehicles last month from 83,954 a year earlier, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries said. Sales of passenger vehicles rose 0.4 per cent in May and SUVs slumped 4 per cent. Light truck sales fell 0.7 per cent and heavy commercial vehicles added 0.3 per cent.

Toyota sold 18,310 vehicles in the month, giving it a market share of 22 per cent. It has been Australia's No 1 seller since April last year.