As the first quarter of 2016 came to a close, final sales figures confirm this to be the strongest sales period for Mazda Ireland since 2008.

Indeed, sales on 31st March 2016 almost equal full annual sales in 2014 which is testament to the new 6th generation product line up Mazda completed last year with the addition of the all-new Mazda2, Mazda CX-3 and Mazda MX-5 – recently crowned World Car of the Year.

Quarter one sales figures show an increase in growth by 54% compared to the same quarter last year. With the industry growth at 28%, Mazda have proved to be one of the fastest automotive growing brands in Ireland YTD.

The end of quarter one also marks the end of the fiscal year for Mazda and despite their heavy investment in refreshing the Mazda Retail Network and an increase in Head Office staff Mazda have also successfully hit profit targets solidifying proof of the companies thriving success story.

Mazda’s success extends beyond Irish shores as the good story is shared with Mazda Europe who has increased sales volume by 27% in comparison to the previous fiscal year, enjoying a market share of 1.5%, up from 1.3%.

To add to the ever impressive Mazda range, the new Mazda MX-5 RF (retractable fastback) was unveiled for the first time at the New York Motor Show. The car will be launched in the Irish market in 2017.

Tony Howarth, Managing Director Mazda Ireland quoted: “I am extremely pleased with the way 2016 has begun for Mazda.  We launched a new 1.5 diesel variant into the Mazda3 range in January which completed our 6th Generation line-up after launching 3 all-new models and 2 heavily facelifted cars over the past 12 months.  Mazda now have the freshest range in the industry and our Q1 performance highlighted that with 53% year on year growth, consumers recognise Mazda offers an exciting alternative to traditional mainstream and even premium brands in Ireland.”