Mazda Reports October 2008 Sales

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IRVINE, Calif., November 3, 2008: Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported October 2008 sales of 16,442, down 25.9 percent versus last year, and year-to-date sales of 231,850, down 7.5 percent.

Bucking the sales trend with an incredible sales month was the MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle. With sales of 1,921, volume was up nearly four times over 2007. On a year-to-date basis, the MAZDA5 is up an astonishing 51.8 percent.

"Whether the auto industry mirrors the state of business in general, or whether business mirrors the industry, is hard to say. What is sure, though, is that it's a roller-coaster ride every day -- one day it looks like we're turning the corner while the next it seems that the hill ahead is ever-steeper," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "Cars like MAZDA5, though, are proof that Mazda's vehicle lineup is as strong as any manufacturers', and we're in a great position to gain when the market turns." The all-new 2009 MAZDA6, which arrived at dealerships across the country in September, continues its strong start. The new MAZDA6 features a larger body than the outgoing car, as well as more powerful -- and more fuel efficient -- engine choices.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) celebrated its best-ever October with sales of 1,994 vehicles, up 30 percent versus last year. On a year-to-date basis, MMdM reported 17,299 total sales, accounting for a 33 percent increase versus last year. The all-new MAZDA6 also had a record month with 393 vehicles sold, up 125 percent versus last October. Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) reported September sales of 6,109 units, up slightly compared to October 2007.