(January 7, 2011) Holden Commodore has become Australia’s highest-selling vehicle for the 15th consecutive year, according to sales figures released today by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).

The figures show 45,956 Commodores were sold throughout 2010, cementing the vehicle’s status as the number one car in the country, a record unbroken since 1996.

Chairman and Managing Director Mike Devereux said Commodore was Holden’s longest-standing nameplate, and had become an Australian icon since the first vehicle rolled off the line more than 30 years ago.

“Commodore really resonates with Australians drivers, as it offers outstanding quality and value for money,” Mr Devereux said.

“It’s our intention for Commodore to be the country’s top-selling car for many years to come — we’ll do this by continually improving the vehicle to ensure it remains relevant for Australian motorists — as we did with VE Series II, when we added flex-fuel capability and the Holden-iQ system,” he said.

In addition to Commodore, the FCAI’s results showed strong sales across the rest of the Holden portfolio in December, with 10,444 vehicles sold, giving Holden a market share of 12.1 per cent for the month.

Across 2010, Holden sold 132,923 vehicles – an increase of 11.2 per cent from the previous year, and ahead of market growth at 10.5 per cent. This resulted in an overall annual market share of 12.8 per cent, second only to Toyota, with 20.7 per cent.

Mr Devereux said while Holden’s success during 2010 was spearheaded by strong Commodore sales, Cruze also performed well in its first full year in showrooms, selling 28,334 vehicles and cementing its place in the small car segment ahead of the launch of locally produced sedan and hatch versions this year.

“Our approach for 2011 and beyond is to have world-class, market-leading Holden vehicles competing in almost every segment, so customers can be assured of outstanding quality and value right across the entire Holden portfolio,” he said.