An investigation of a potential fuel leak issue affecting a popular small Holden has now triggered a recall of almost 500 cars in New Zealand.

The traditional Holden-Ford rivalry will not be killed off by V8 Supercar racing's bid to woo other manufacturers into the sport, according to its chief Tony Cochrane.

Suzuki took out the top spot in car sales last month, selling 234 of its Swift cars.

General Motors is recalling Chevrolet and Pontiac models in the US and Europe.