New Zealand May 2017: 3 passenger cars in Top 20, market up 17.5%

The Ford Ranger remains the most popular nameplate in New Zealand.

* See the Top 72 All-brands and Top 30 models by clicking on the title *

At 13.131 units, the New Zealand new vehicle market delivers its best May score in history, up a smashing 17.5% year-on-year. 4.745 commercial vehicles found a buyer this month, which is the highest result since the MIA began collecting vehicle statistics in 1975. The year-to-date total is up 14% on the same period in 2016 to a record 63.241 units. Toyota soars 35% to remain by far the most popular carmaker in the country at 18% market share, distancing Ford down 1% to 11.4% share. Mazda gains 26% to overtake Holden for third place overall, while Mitsubishi (+43%), Kia (+37%), Suzuki (+27%) and Volkswagen (+34%) also shine inside the Top 10. Beyond, Isuzu (+31%), Subaru (+30%), Audi (+45%), BMW (+27%) and Jeep (+28%) make themselves noticed.

The Mazda CX-9 ends May just outside the New Zealand Top 20. 

Model-wise, the Ford Ranger, #1 in 2015 and 2016, dominates the sales charts once again, evolving like the market at +18%. It distances the Toyota Hilux (+43%) and Mitsubishi Triton (+104%) for a podium 100% pickup trucks. The Toyota RAV4 (+57%) is the best-selling SUV in New Zealand at #4 overall, above the Mazda CX-5 (+42%) and Kia Sportage (+30%). The Toyota Corolla is the best-selling passenger car as always but only ranks 8th this month. In fact, there are only three passenger cars in the Top 20: the Honda Jazz is #18 and the Holden Commodore #19. Every single other nameplate is either a pickup truck, an SUV or a van! Notice the Mitsubishi Outlander up 86% to #11, the Nissan X-Trail up 84% to #12, the Toyota Highlander up 88% to #15 and the Mazda CX-9 up to #21.

Previous post: New Zealand Full Year 2016: Ford Ranger repeats in third straight record year

One year ago: New Zealand May 2016: Ford Ranger leads, Mustang in Top 25

Full May 2017 Top 72 All-brands and Top 30 models below.