Market softens over Rugby World Cup

Perry Kerr. Photo / Supplied

The new vehicle market remains soft as buyers focused on the Rugby World Cup, just released figures from the New Zealand Transport Agency reveal.

NZTA data shows new vehicle sales of 7026, down 3.7 per cent on October 2010. New passenger car sales of 5428 were down 438 units (7.5 per cent), however commercial sales of 1431 were up 11.7 per cent (167 units) on the same month last year.

"We were disappointed in the overall sales numbers as the Japanese industry has finally got back on its feet following the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami," said Perry Kerr, chief executive officer of the Motor Industry Association.

"Unfortunately production of utes is now taking a hit due to the extensive flooding in Thailand which has closed most parts manufacturers. Our expectation is that November will remain weak as buyers attention is diverted towards the forthcoming election.

"We, however, remain hopeful that total new vehicle sales for the full year will exceed 2010."

Last month, Toyota remained in top position for passenger car sales (1333 registrations), followed by Hyundai (657) in second place. Holden was third with 597 registrations.

Year to date sees these last two positions reversed with Holden second (5379) and Hyundai third (5289).

In the October commercial segment Toyota led with 467 sales, Ford was second with 244, and Nissan third on 147. These positions were repeated for the year to date totals.

The top-selling model for last month was the Toyota Corolla with 528 registrations, with a boost from rental sales. The Hyundai i30 had 309 registrations and the Toyota Yaris 305.

Toyota's Hilux continued its commercial dominance with 286 registrations, followed by Ford Ranger on 204 and Toyota Hiace on 185.