16 August 2002: The Ford Galaxy is now the top-selling Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) in Ireland and Europe, and is powering ahead in sales in Ireland against a background of diminished overall car sales.

Despite a 29% fall in overall car registrations here last year, Galaxy managed to increase sales by over 100%. The trend is continuing into 2002, where sales to date are 20% up on the corresponding period in 2001. In excess of 500 units will be sold this year.

Europe-wide, Galaxy captured over 16% of the MPV market in the first quarter of the year, topping the MPV market ahead of the VW Sharan. The model leads in both the petrol and diesel segments, with the latter approaching 80% of all sales.

Galaxy’s success proves there is strong demand among Irish motorists for an executive people carrier, Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Ford Ireland says. "Appeal for the vehicle comes from a wide range of quarters, from families looking for a large lifestyle vehicle for the children to companies seeking luxury courtesy transport."

Galaxy sells from 33,700 euros.