(March 12, 2013) ROLLE, Switzerland — Nissan today announced it recorded market share growth in Europe in February, increasing by 0.3 percentage points to 4.2%. This was spearheaded by strong fiscal year-to-date market share in 21 of Nissan's major European markets, contributing to the 49,114 units sold during the month.

February market share was also the highest recorded this fiscal year in seven European markets including Russia and the UK — countries were Nissan has a strong industrial footprint — as well as Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Sweden, Hungary and Ireland.

The UK, home to Nissan's record-breaking Sunderland plant, recorded an increase of 7% in fiscal year-to-date sales. This growth was also echoed across other markets in Europe including Denmark and Ukraine, which saw an increase in sales of 18% and 10% respectively versus this time last year.

These promising results across Europe mark the start of a busy year for Nissan as the manufacturer kicks off a new product onslaught for Europe. Launching first will be the newly styled b-segment Nissan Note as well as the new 100% electric Nissan Leaf, both of which were revealed at the Geneva Motor Show this month. 

Sales of the Leaf were up 132% compared to this time last year with flagship crossover models like the Qashqai and Juke also continuing their strong performance.  Sales of the Nissan Qashqai, pictured above, were up 8% this month compared to February 2012.  Qashqai sales have risen each year since its launch in 2007, bucking the industry trend.

Nissan Vice President for Sales Operations in Europe Guillaume Cartier, commenting on Nissan's successful sales performance and ambitions for 2013, said: "We expect 2013 to be a strong year for Nissan in Europe. We have a high performing manufacturing base in Europe and a strong pipeline of exciting products that will bring even more buyers to Nissan dealerships across Europe in the coming months."

"Despite the economic downturn, Nissan's ambitions in Europe remain stronger than ever and we aim to expand our European presence by increasing localized manufacturing and investment in the region."