Suzuki sold 2,042 vehicles last month, making it the best October on record for the company.

"This is a fantastic result for Suzuki, particularly given the tightening economic situation," said Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers.

"Suzuki has clearly defied the market trend and is running well ahead of the overall industry."

"Year on year, Suzuki sales are up nearly seven per cent, while the total market is in decline."

"We have managed this result while competing in just 45 per cent of available segments."

"With new models like Alto and Kizashi coming on stream in the next 18 months Suzuki is set to continue to be one of the fastest growing brands in the country," said Devers.

Yearly sales to date show almost every Suzuki model is ahead of the 2007 figures.

SX4 leads the way, with total sales of 3,685 for 2008 representing an 111 per cent increase.

The new Grand Vitara range, with its combination of improved fuel economy, more refinement and more safety, has boosted year to date sales to 3,177, up five per cent.

Jimny sales are up 39 per cent, while Suzuki’s APV light commercial is up 32 per cent.

Swift sales continue to be strong, with the total figure of 11,173 year to date down just 1 per cent despite the addition of new competitors in the highly competitive light car segment. The Suzuki Swift remains Next Car's pick for top value in the light car segment.

Total Suzuki sales for 2008 are now 19,340, up 6.6 per cent on the 2007 figure, keeping the company on track to achieve its sixth successive record sales year.