Toyota Corolla remains NZ's most popular car

Toyota was once again the best-selling car model in New Zealand.

The Toyota Corolla is still New Zealand's most popular car for the 26th year running, latest figures reveal.

The Motor Trade Association data showed 3838 new Corollas had been sold this year to date, with 629 sold last month -- a jump of 23 per cent from August figures, MTA chief executive Warwick Quinn said.

"The second most popular new car for the year was Holden Commodore with 277 new units sold in September and 2259 this year to date."

Following in third place was the Suzuki Swift with 1973 sold this year, Mr Quinn said.

The Ford Ranger was the most popular in new commercial vehicles, with 4445 sold this year. The Toyota Hilux followed closely behind.

The Nissan Tiida was New Zealand's most popular imported used car with 5182 sold this year, followed by the Suzuki Swift and the Mazda Axela.

"Overall, the passenger sector saw strong growth with 11,142 used imported models and 8382 new vehicles sold this year to date," Mr Quinn said.

New commercial vehicle sales had increased by 24 per cent this year, making it the strongest September on record with 3458 sold.

This year was looking like it would see the highest number of new commercial vehicles ever sold in one year since records began in 1925, he said.

The used import commercial market also showed growth with 792 imported units sold in September, a 58 per cent increase on last year.

The growth signalled continued business and consumer confidence, Mr Quinn said.

"Car dealers across the country are well-stocked, and demand continues to be strong.

"That so many vehicles are being sold indicates there is a lot of upgrading going on, spread across the market."

TOP SELLERS THIS YEAR

Best selling new car:

1. Toyota Corolla, 3838

2. Holden Commodore,2259

3. Suzuki Swift, 1973

Best selling commercial vehicle:

1. Ford Ranger, 4445

2. Toyota Hilux, 4266

3. Holden Colorado, 2193

Best selling imported used vehicle:

1. Nissan Tiida, 5182

2. Suzuki Swift, 4766

3. Mazda Axela, 4390

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