Mazda bucks the trend

The company maintains this year's target at over 42,000 units.

"The local economy is showing signs of improvement starting from the start of the second quarter via new model introductions to the market," said Hidesuke Takesue, president of Mazda Sales (Thailand). Boosting sales would also be more aggressive and effective aftersales policies which emphasise personalised service for customers to strengthen the Mazda brand and transform Mazda as the automobile brand which customers love.

In the first half, total vehicle sales were about 370,000 units. In the latter half, sales of 410,000 are expected.

Mazda saw its market share soar to 5.7 per cent. 

In the first half, it sold 13,500 passenger cars, up by 23 per cent on year. It also sold 4,512 sport utility vehicles, up 160 per cent on year. 

“The latter half of 2016 will see Mazda emphasise the incorporation of technology in its products to enhance driving performance and fuel efficiency to meet the discerning functional needs of customers and stringent standards. As for Mazda’s plan to increase sales volume this year, Mazda will emphasise stronger image and value for the brand. This will be combined with sales promotion campaigns to stimulate sales," said Takesue.

In the 2015 JD POWER survey, Mazda ranked 1st in the Passenger car category for SSI or Sales Satisfaction Index.