According to Ford’s analysis of freshly released Polk new vehicle registration data from IHS Automotive, the Focus kept the title of the world’s bestselling vehicle nameplate in 2013 with 1,097,618 deliveries, up 8.1 percent over 2012 when it sold 1,014,965 cars.
The Blue Oval said that much of the Focus’ success can be attributed to China were registrations shot up by an impressive 50 percent in 2013, from 268,354 units to 403,219, with the country now accounting for more than one out of three Focus cars sold globally.
Ford didn’t break down the numbers by body styles, but it did say that U.S. buyers showed a preference to Sterling Gray (21% of sales) and Tuxedo Black (15%) in regards to exterior colors, while Chinese consumers were smitten by Crystal Solid White (50%) and to a lesser extent, Candy Red (17%).
Ford may improve sales of the Focus this year, as it will soon release a facelifted version of the compact model.
“It is remarkable to see Focus again lead the industry as the No. 1-selling vehicle nameplate on the planet,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president, Ford Motor Company Global Marketing, Sales and Service and Lincoln. “With the new car, we’ve raised the bar again, showcasing Ford’s commitment to continuous improvement – adding better technology for drivers and a sleeker, more modern exterior across the entire Focus family.”
Ford also cited Polk data to claim that the Fiesta “earned the top spot as the best-selling subcompact car globally, with 735,299 registrations for 2013”.
By John Halas
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