Mazda MX-5 sales up by a third

Sales of the all-new third generation Mazda MX-5 are up by a third on sales of the old model in November last year, proving the popularity of the world's best selling roadster continues to increase among British sports car fans.

UK sales of MX-5 reached 385 units compared to 295 in November last year - a 32 per cent increase in sales. The first two months of sales of the all-new Mazda MX-5 have been a storming success with sales reaching 845 compared to 625 during the same period last year.

Meanwhile, sales of the family-sized Mazda3 hatchback and saloon model reached an impressive 932 units, a 45 per cent increase on November last year. Marketing Director Mark Cameron commented on Mazda3 topping Mazda's sales charts in November:

"Mazda3's sales success in November reflects the industry trend in the lower medium sector, which showed the best year-to-date growth of any sector at 4.3 per cent growth.

"Cars in this segment currently represent around 61.7 per cent of the market and Mazda3 offers a fresh alternative to this segment with its dynamic handling and stylish design."

Total Mazda sales for the month reached 2,977 units resulting in a market share of 1.84 per cent for November and 1.91 per cent year to date. Mazda saw a seven per cent increase in sales on November 2004 in a month that saw an industry fall of 7.9 per cent in the new car market. Total Mazda sales so far this year have reached 44,827 units.