Skoda UK is celebrating after the company recorded its highest annual new car registrations ever for the third year running. The new benchmark is 45,061, up from 41,240 (+9.2%) in 2010.

The star performers were the critically acclaimed flagship Superb and the Yeti crossover. Since it went on sale in 2008, sales of the Superb have continued to grow and 2011 was its best year ever with 4,439 registrations. That easily outperformed its previous highest, 3,400 in 2010 (+30%). The Yeti’s blend of practicality, versatility and go-anywhere attitude means it also had a record year in 2011, with 5,800 (+32%) registrations. The previous best was 4,400 in 2010.

The overall total of 45,061 means Skoda’s share of the UK new car market has grown from 2.03% to 2.32% in a year.

Skoda UK is also celebrating a record year in fleet, with sales of 21,899, up from 16,763 in 2010 (+30%). It means 2011 is the first time Skoda UK has broken through the 2% barrier in the fleet sector, and now stands at 2.2% market share.

Robert Hazelwood, Skoda UK brand director, said 2011 had undoubtedly been a year of highs: “Our sales success is testament to the hard work of everyone involved in the brand and they deserve a huge thank you. Customers recognise Skoda as a brand that delivers great quality cars at outstanding value for money, delivered and serviced by a fantastic retailer network. The next 12 months will be equally impressive for Skoda as we launch two new products that will allow us to compete in new market segments.”