The number of small car Ford vehicles sold in September was the highest for the company in a decade, marking a 73 percent increase for 2012 over 2011.
Sales were led by the Ford Escape, which had its best ever month of sales as buyers snatched up more than 23,000 units. The Escape accounted for nearly 14 percent of all Ford vehicles sold.
These increases were likely caused by special financing offers and large incentives, along with reactions to gas prices. Drivers were searching for vehicles with good fuel economy to battle the rising cost of gas, making compact cars a more attractive option than SUVs or auto repair done on current vehicles.
"As more buyers look for new vehicles across the country, Ford is ready with our strongest lineup ever of fuel-efficient cars, utilities and full-size pickups," said Ken Czubay, a Ford vice president. "Fuel economy remains one of the most important features customers want most today, and Ford is answering the call with five vehicles that deliver 40 mpg or better."
Despite the success of Ford's smaller cars, NBC News reports that the sales of larger trucks took a hit. Retail sales of F-Series trucks were up only 1 percent when compared to 2011, which mirrors a trend found in a number of other manufacturers.