Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported July 2008 sales of 22,418 vehicles, a 13.3 percent decrease over last year. Year-to-date, Mazda reports 175,559 vehicles sold, down a slight 1.7 percent.
"As fuel prices continue to rise and consumer confidence continues to slip, new-car buyers are honing their choices, deciding on the smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles that a company like Mazda has always made," said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO, MNAO. "We're in the enviable
position of having trouble stocking enough MAZDA3s, MAZDA5s and MAZDA6s to meet this demand and this month's sales numbers reflect that."
The fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive MAZDA3 continues as Mazda's sales leader, with sales up 1.9 percent totaling 11,782, its best July ever. The MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle posted a 39.7 percent increase versus last July, with 1,336 units sold. Year-to-date, MAZDA5 sales are up 43.7 percent, proof-positive of consumers' changing tastes.
The all-new 2009 MAZDA6 is expected to arrive in showrooms this week. With a larger body than the outgoing car, as well as more powerful -- and more fuel efficient -- engine choices, the 2009 MAZDA6 is sure to be a hit.