Volkswagen brand closes 2006 as clear leader in most market segments

Almost every fifth vehicle sold in Germany is a VolkswagenW

Wolfsburg, 16 January 2007 - In 2006, Volkswagen models were the best-sellers in most market segments covered by Germany’s Federal Bureau of Motor Vehicles and Drivers (KBA). With a market share of 19.9 percent and 689,000 new registrations, the Volkswagen brand further expanded its undisputed leading position in Germany.

“Almost every fifth vehicle sold in Germany is a Volkswagen”, Stefan Müller, Head of Sales Germany, Volkswagen Passenger Car brand, commented. “Our young model range, combined with attractive financing and mobility programs such as the ‘anniversary package’, have convinced customers. The excellent sales performance in both the private customer and fleet customer sectors was also instrumental in bringing us the highest market share last year since 1994.”

The Golf confirmed its special position as Germany’s most popular car: new registrations of the Golf and Jetta in December 2006 totaled 21,659 units. This corresponds to a segment share of 28.9 percent and is by far the highest figure, both in the compact class and in a comparison of all models.

In the mini segment, the Volkswagen Fox clearly held pole position in December with 2,469 new registrations and a share of 19.6 percent. The Polo defended its top position in the small car segment, with 9,520 new registrations and a segment share of 16.3 percent. With 10,870 new registrations and a segment share of 22.1 percent, the Passat was yet again the best-seller in the mid-class.

The Eos showed a remarkable development: with a segment share of 15.0 percent and 1,211 new registrations in December, the Volkswagen convertible coupé topped the German convertible market for the sixth time since its launch in May 2006. The new Touran rounds off the best-seller list. Following the market launch of the new-design model mid-November 2006, the new Touran already returned to pole position in the van segment in December. 5,773 new registrations corresponds to a market share of 14.5 percent.