Skoda sales up 25.7 percent from 2013

Skoda Ireland's H1 sales figures are up by more than a quarter from 2013 in the first half of 2014 (4,426 vs 3,520), greater than the overall increase in the total car market (23.4%), writes Trish Whelan.

The Czech brand currently sits in sixth position in the Irish car market with a market share of 6.75 percent, an increase from 6.62 percent in H1 2013.

This year's growth can be attributed to the addition of five new dealerships to their network, including the recent opening of MSL Park Motors, Navan Road, in Dublin, bringing the brand's dealer network to 26 nationwide.

In addition to new car sales, their finance and parts business has shown positive growth.

New car turnover has increased 30 percent from €41.8m to €54.38m and vehicle parts and accessory turnover has also increased 9 percent from €3.14m to €3.42m. A growing number of customers are also availing of Skoda finance offers available through Volkswagen Bank.

Skoda Ireland expects to exceed €100 million in revenue for the first time in 2014.

Pictured above is the Skoda Octavia Scout which will have its market launch at the National Ploughing Championships on 23 September with prices starting from €33,795.