Bakkie war continues between Ford, Toyota

Volumes increased 21.8% compared to March last year, and 8.4% from February 2015.

Ford had three strong contenders in March’s overall top 10 sales in the passenger car segment, with EcoSport in fourth place, Figo fifth and Fiesta in 10th. The locally-built Ford Ranger remains Ford’s star performer, recording its highest-ever sales on 3 107 and second best-selling LCV in March.

“The continued strong demand for Ford products matches the significant strides made in making our model range more competitive and compelling,” said Mark Kaufman, vice-president, marketing, sales and service, FMCSA.

“This is strengthened by the roll-out of the Fusion and Tourneo Connect, which recorded segment-leading shares in March. We’re introducing 10 new products this year.”

The new Ford Ranger. Picture: Supplied

Meanwhile, Toyota once again posted their best sales performance in March, garnering a dominant 20% market share.

The long-term market leader delivered 11 047 new vehicles during March, driven by a healthy demand for Hilux, which once again took top honours as South Africa’s best seller with 3 625 units sold for the month, 518 units ahead of its closest rival, the Ford Ranger.

Other top performers from the brand include the Corolla/ Quest combination, holding the C-segment lead at 37% with 1 745 units sold, while the Fortuner secured its position as sport utility vehicle leader with close to 900 units finding a home during March.

“Our performance proves Toyota has an even firmer grip on its long-term position as the best-selling automotive brand in South Africa,” said Calvyn Hamman, senior vice-president, sales and marketing. “This in the face of increased competition, much of which has been directly targeted at Toyota.”