Out of all imported cars in Korea, 40 percent are from European nations, according to statistics released yesterday.

Korea’s Auto Importers and Distributors’ Association (KAIDA) said Europe’s strong performance was due to the rising popularity of German vehicles.

The data showed that Korean buyers today prefer autos made from Germany, Britain, France and Sweden to cars made in Japan and the U.S.

As to the rise of the demand for European cars, KAIDA explained that diesel-powered sedans are winning over gasoline vehicles.

By Ro Ji-woong (jamesro@heraldcorp.com)