Ford Ranger reclaims top spot on the monthly charts

SEPTEMBER’S VFACTS report has been released, and Ford has once again jumped Toyota to have the best-selling 4x4 for the month.

The year-long game of leapfrog between Ford’s Ranger and Toyota’s Hilux has continued in September, with the Ranger regaining top position.

Not only did the Ranger (2451 units) considerably outsell the Hilux (2311) this month, but it has also tightened things up on the year-to-date charts.

With only three calendar months remaining, the Ranger now only trails the Hilux on the YTD charts by 86 units (22,438 v 22,524)!

Rounding out the top five on the September 4x4 sales charts are the Mitsubishi Triton (2012), Holden Colorado (1528) and Toyota Prado (1160).

Mazda’s BT-50 may sit in ninth position on the 4x4 sales charts, but the utility (combined 4x4 and 4x2) is breaking company records.

It posted a new September record with 1361 units sold (the M Day deals helped) and is on track to break its current annual sales record of 13,702 (2013).

“We are delighted with the September sales performance of every nameplate in the Mazda range. It is particularly satisfying to see so many records set. While there were some great M Day deals to be had, it is the strength of the Mazda Brand, with superior styling, interior refinement, excellent safety and competitive pricing that makes it one of the most attractive options for new car buyers,” Martin Benders, Mazda Australia managing director, said.

Overall, the LCV market continues to strengthen as the year continues. Compared to September 2015, sales of LCVs have increased by a whopping 17.9 per cent – sales are also up 11.2 per cent YTD.

“The trend in increased consumer preference for SUVs and light commercials was accompanied by a decline in sales of passenger vehicles by 8.7 per cent in September, compared with the same month last year,” Tony Weber, chief executive of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, said.

The Toyota Hilux (4x4 and 4x2 models) was the third best-selling vehicle on the overall market (3209 units). It trailed the Mazda 3 (3491) and Toyota Corolla (3423).

The Ford Ranger (4x4 and 4x4 models) was fourth, with 2903 units sold.