Ford sales for the month totalled 11,551 units, which in a total market of 77,035 vehicles gave the company its best overall share result since September last year and the best July result since 1999.

“With Ford's SUV sales moving up a gear as a result of Territory's strong early performances, total Ford sales year-to-date are now running at their highest levels since 1996,” Ford Australia President Tom Gorman said.

Territory was the standout performer in the July results, recording 1,681 retails in its second month on sale to be the top-selling vehicle in the SUV Medium segment.

“Territory sales continued to gain momentum during July, building on the strong pre-launch and first month results, and reinforcing the early market acceptance of this unique vehicle,” Mr Gorman said.

“Customers have responded to the wide range of choices Territory offers, allowing them to select the exterior and interior appointments that matter most to them, as well as the ability to have either RWD or AWD capabilities.

“Fiesta also recorded its best performance since it went on sale late in the first quarter, finishing the month with 411 retail sales”.

Falcon Ute sales remain on track for another record year in 2004, with 11,921 Styleside Box and Cab Chassis models sold to the end of July, up almost four per cent on the previous record.