Tag Archives: Sales results

News

Bronco Sport Just Had a Terrible Month—Here’s Why That Matters

Ford’s rugged Bronco lineup is having a strong 2025—at least for the most part. While the larger Bronco continues to surge in popularity, its smaller sibling, the Bronco Sport, hit an unexpected roadblock in July.

Through the first seven months of the year, the Bronco Sport has been on a healthy upward trajectory. Sales are up 13.9 percent compared to 2024, with 83,376 units sold so far in 2025—an encouraging climb from the 73,203 units sold over the same period last year. But July told a very different story.

Last month, Bronco Sport sales plunged 18.7 percent year-over-year, with just 10,938 units sold compared to 13,449 in July 2024. The drop is particularly surprising given the model’s overall success this year and the broader strength of Ford’s SUV lineup.

In fact, the Bronco Sport was one of the only mainstream Ford models to post a monthly decline, alongside the compact Maverick pickup. Other nameplates, particularly in the large SUV segment, showed serious momentum. The Explorer posted a robust 46.2 percent jump with 18,837 units sold in July, and the Expedition climbed an even higher 50.9 percent with 7,518 units. But the real standout was the full-size Bronco, which surged 55 percent year-over-year to 13,798 sales—eclipsing its smaller sibling’s tally for the month.

The Bronco’s rise isn’t just a one-month wonder. Year-to-date, the flagship off-roader is up a massive 45 percent, growing from 59,054 units sold through July of 2024 to 85,861 so far in 2025. It’s a reminder that while some buyers might be swayed by compact crossovers with rugged aesthetics, many are still craving true off-road capability—and they’re finding it in the Bronco.

Meanwhile, over at Lincoln, Ford’s luxury division is having a more mixed year. The Corsair crossover continues to slide, down 16.2 percent for July and 1 percent on the year. The Nautilus is faring slightly better with a 3.3 percent year-to-date increase, but it too suffered a July decline of 11.5 percent. Fortunately, the Aviator provided a rare bright spot, skyrocketing 298.4 percent to 1,470 units for the month—up from just 369 in July of last year.

Despite the Bronco Sport’s rocky month, Ford’s overall SUV momentum remains strong. But the segment’s volatility is on full display. Even strong year-to-date performers can’t rest easy—especially when consumer preferences shift as fast as the terrain the Bronco was built to conquer.

Source: Ford

News

Škoda Surges to Third in Europe with Record-Breaking H1 2025 Performance

In a resounding display of momentum and resilience, Škoda Auto has achieved a historic milestone in the first half of 2025, emerging as the third best-selling car brand in Europe—a leap from tenth place just a few years ago. With 509,400 vehicles delivered globally, marking a 13.6% year-on-year increase, the Czech automaker is clearly hitting its stride, driven by surging EV demand, international expansion, and strategic cost management.

A Pan-European Triumph

At the core of Škoda’s success is its impressive performance across the European market, where it delivered 409,100 vehicles, a 10.5% increase compared to H1 2024. In Germany alone, its largest single market, Škoda sold 100,700 vehicles, while standout growth was also recorded in the UK (+16.5%), Spain (+20.3%), Austria (+25.7%), Sweden (+54.0%), and France (+13.5%). These gains helped secure market shares exceeding 10% in Austria and Denmark, with 7.18% in Germany, outpacing overall market trends.

Škoda’s goal to cement a permanent place among Europe’s top three brands by 2030 now looks more attainable than ever.

Electrification Powers Forward

One of the standout achievements is Škoda’s rapid acceleration in electrification. In Europe, 22.8% of Škoda deliveries were either fully electric or plug-in hybrid—up from just 9.4% a year ago. The star performers? The new Enyaq and Elroq, which together secured over 120,000 orders by the end of June.

The Elroq, in particular, made waves by topping European BEV (battery electric vehicle) sales charts for three consecutive months—April through June—and becoming the best-selling EV in both the Czech Republic and Denmark. Meanwhile, the Enyaq claimed the second spot in Switzerland’s BEV market. Together with the updated Superb and Kodiaq plug-in hybrids, Škoda is clearly on a winning trajectory in the sustainable mobility race.

Financial Resilience and Strategic Discipline

Škoda’s operational strength is not just visible in its vehicle deliveries but also in its financials. Revenue reached €15.07 billion in the first six months (+10.4%), while operating profit climbed to €1.285 billion (+11.8%). The company maintained a robust return on sales of 8.5%, underscoring its ability to grow efficiently.

According to Holger Peters, Board Member for Finance, IT, and Legal Affairs, the brand’s Next Level Efficiency+ programme has started paying dividends, optimizing cost structures and laying a technological foundation for future AI-driven efficiencies.

International Momentum: India and Vietnam Lead the Way

Škoda’s international ambitions are materializing at pace. In India, the company delivered 33,300 vehicles, a staggering 107.7% increase year-on-year, driven primarily by the success of the Kylaq SUV, which alone accounted for over 20,000 units.

The brand’s presence in Vietnam is also gaining ground, with the Kushaq SUV now being sold as the first locally produced Škoda model, assembled at a new plant in cooperation with the Thanh Cong Group. This marks a key step in Škoda’s strategy to leverage Indian production capacity for global markets, particularly through CKD (completely knocked-down) exports.

Diversification Delivers Results

Škoda’s current product strategy embraces multiple powertrain technologies, with CEO Klaus Zellmer emphasizing the importance of “freedom of choice in this era of transition.” This includes combustion, hybrid, and fully electric vehicles – a blend that’s allowing Škoda to serve broad customer needs without alienating traditional markets.

Among the internal combustion lineup, the Octavia continues to reign supreme with 97,500 units sold, followed by the Kodiaq and Kamiq SUVs.

Looking Ahead: Electrified and Emotionally Engaged

Škoda isn’t just expanding its electric portfolio—it’s adding emotional appeal too. The introduction of RS versions of the Enyaq and Elroq in H1 2025 signals the brand’s intent to combine performance with sustainability. The RS badge adds a sporty edge that broadens Škoda’s appeal in key European markets, particularly as the shift toward electrification becomes more competitive.

As Martin Jahn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, puts it: “These models are cornerstones of our electrification strategy… our internationalisation strategy is also gathering pace.”

Škoda Auto’s first half of 2025 is more than a numerical success—it’s a case study in how a legacy automaker can adapt, expand, and thrive in a period of rapid transformation. With electrification gaining traction, global markets opening up, and financial discipline firmly in place, Škoda is not just catching up with the competition—it’s leading the pack.

As the second half of the year begins, all eyes will be on whether Škoda can maintain this upward trajectory. If the past six months are any indication, it’s not just possible—it’s probable.

Source: Škoda

News

Alfa Romeo Posts 20% Global Growth in H1 2025, Driven by Junior Launch

Alfa Romeo is celebrating its 115th anniversary in signature style—with accelerating global momentum and a product strategy that blends heritage with modernity. The Italian marque has announced a robust 20% year-on-year increase in global registrations for the first half of 2025, a testament to its dynamic portfolio, growing international presence, and the successful launch of the all-new Alfa Romeo Junior.

Compact Power, Global Reach

At the heart of Alfa Romeo’s resurgence is the Junior, the brand’s new compact premium offering that has quickly become a cornerstone of its global expansion strategy. With over 45,000 orders recorded since its launch just a few months ago in 38 countries, the Junior is more than a new model—it’s a symbol of Alfa’s adaptability in a rapidly changing industry.

Available in a variety of powertrains—including the 280-hp Elettrica Veloce, the 156-hp Elettrica, and the 145-hp Ibrida (also available with Q4 all-wheel-drive)—the Junior represents Alfa’s most versatile and accessible interpretation of Italian sportiness yet. Impressively, 17% of all Junior orders so far are for the full-electric variant, highlighting a growing appetite for performance EVs in the premium compact segment.

Europe: A Stronghold Reinforced

Europe remains Alfa Romeo’s primary growth engine, with regional registrations surging 33.3% year-over-year. Key markets contributed significantly to this trajectory: France led the pack with a 51% rise—where the Junior is already segment leader—followed by the UK (+50%), Italy (+35%), and a remarkable 200% increase in the Netherlands.

South America & MEA: Surging Demand

In South America, Alfa Romeo experienced a stellar 63% increase in registrations, signaling both rising brand awareness and effective market entry strategies. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region posted a solid 34% year-over-year growth, reinforcing Alfa’s foothold in emerging premium markets.

Asia-Pacific: Setting the Stage

While the Asia-Pacific region saw a slight decline overall in H1, Alfa Romeo’s investment in the area remains steadfast. The Junior debuted in Japan in June, and an Australian market launch is imminent. Looking ahead, the brand is preparing entries into Malaysia and Taiwan, signaling intent to expand its APAC footprint more aggressively. In China, Alfa Romeo maintained steady performance, reflective of its consistent, if measured, presence in the world’s largest auto market.

North America: Strategy Shift in Progress

Contrasting the global uptrend, North America saw a decline in registrations. However, Alfa Romeo executives remain proactive, signaling that a targeted strategy is in motion to counter market challenges and reignite momentum in this crucial region.

Tonale, Giulia, and Stelvio: The Core Trio

Beyond the Junior, Alfa Romeo’s core line-up continues to deliver. The Tonale remains a critical player in the premium C-SUV segment, praised for its balance of performance, technology, and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Giulia and Stelvio continue to embody the brand’s classic DNA—sporty, elegant, and unmistakably Italian.

A Milestone Year for the Biscione Brand

Celebrating 115 years since its founding in 1910, Alfa Romeo has leaned into its rich history with a series of iconic moments throughout 2025. Among them: dynamic testing of the breathtaking new 33 Stradale at the legendary Balocco Proving Ground and the debut of the book Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale during the exclusive FuoriConcorso event.

Additionally, Alfa Romeo welcomed global fans to an international gathering in Arese that drew thousands of Alfisti from across the globe—underscoring the brand’s enduring emotional resonance. The celebration continues through major new partnerships, including with Luna Rossa for the 38th America’s Cup, and world tennis star Jasmine Paolini, now serving as a global Brand Ambassador.

Looking Forward with Confidence

Commenting on the brand’s performance, Alfa Romeo CEO Santo Ficili remarked:
“Alfa Romeo’s 115th anniversary is not just a commemoration, but an opportunity to celebrate the most authentic essence of the brand. Homogeneous growth has marked the first six months of the year, as a result of robust planning and a comprehensive commercial offering.”

He emphasized the brand’s long-term vision: “We want to seize new opportunities and face the challenges of a constantly evolving global scenario with determination. We will do so with our people, with the dealer network, and with Alfisti fans from all over the world.”

Conclusion: A Legacy Reinvented

With the Junior igniting new interest across continents and the rest of the line-up reinforcing Alfa Romeo’s premium credentials, 2025 is shaping up as a pivotal chapter for the brand. As it charts a bold course toward electrification and global expansion, Alfa Romeo is proving that staying true to one’s roots doesn’t mean standing still—it means accelerating toward the future with style, spirit, and unmistakable Italian flair.

Source: Stellantis