6 March 2006
New vehicle market remains upbeat in February
The new vehicle market continued its strong start to 2006 with 5945 new cars sold in February (up 3% on February 2005),
and 1829 new commercials finding owners (just one unit less than the same month last year). Year to date, new vehicle
sales were 4.5% ahead of the same period last year, representing a continuation of the growth pattern of the last three
years.
Despite still running at 20 year record monthly levels, the new vehicle industry isn’t counting its chickens. “The
economy’s sending out warning signals,” said Perry Kerr, CEO of the Motor Industry Association, “but despite the fact
that trading conditions aren’t getting any easier, consumers are recognising the excellent value represented by
fuel-efficient and safe new vehicles and are responding accordingly.”
Although Ford sneaked in front in new passenger car sales for the month of February, Toyota remained ahead for total
vehicles, thanks to another very strong month for light trucks.
Normal service was resumed in the individual model stakes, with Commodore, Falcon and Corolla assuming their usual order
for February.
Sheet 1: Top fifteen distributors, full year 2005, month of February and YTD 2006, total vehicles, new cars, new
commercials.
Sheet 2: Top fifteen sellers by model, full year 2005, month of February and YTD 2006, top ten rental cars
February 2006.
ENDS