Good growth for Skoda sales in first half of 2007

Skoda sold over 311,000 cars worldwide in the first six months of 2007. This represents a 13% increase over the same period last year.

The new Fabia has been well received so far with nearly 16,000 models sold in the first few months since launch. However, the best-selling model continues to be the Octavia (hatchback, estate and newly launched Scout). Previous generation (or ‘Tour’) models are also still very popular. A total of 146,772 buyers in 92 countries around the world where were tempted by the Octavia.

Sales of the Superb are also improved so far in 2007 (up 3.6%). Skoda has sold over 11,000 units thus far. The Roomster, now halfway through its first full year on the market, has established itself with 33,528 sales.

Skoda enjoyed its best ever first half sales in Western Europe this year. Over 173,000 cars were sold there (a near 12% increase over 2006). Sales rose by 15.4% in Germany to 58,423 units; whereas the increase in Belgium was nearly 28% - a total of 8,831 cars were sold there. There was also a 9.6% rise in Spain to nearly 15,000 vehicles.

Deliveries of cars also rose in the developing markets of Central and Eastern Europe. A total of 115,960 Skodas (16.4% up on 2006) found homes here. Sales rose by 7.2% in Asia. Skoda moved a total of 21,710 cars there. The largest market here was India, with 5,913 sales.

And finally in China, where the Octavia has only been available to order since the 6th of June, 6,000 requests have already been registered by dealers.