TOKYO: Honda Motor Co.’s N-Box minivehicle became the top-selling new vehicle in Japan in January-June, occupying the top spot for the first time in two years on a first-half basis, industry data showed Wednesday.

The N-Box’s sales in the six months, however, fell 6.0 pct from a year before to 103,948 units, amid semiconductor shortages. The release last December of a special model commemorating the 10th anniversary of its launch, as well as of a remodeled version, contributed to its return to the top sales position.

Toyota Motor Corp.’s Yaris subcompact came second after it ranked first in January-June 2021. Its sales fell 31.5 pct to 81,580 units.

Toyota’s Corolla placed third, with its sales growing 31.8 pct to 70,988 units, thanks to the popularity of the Corolla Cross SUV model released last year.

The sales data were released by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association and the Japan Light Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Association.

In June alone, the N-Box and the Yaris ranked first and second, respectively.

JIJI Press