New motor vehicle sales totalled 4,547 in the first quarter of 2009, representing a decrease of 27.3% over the same period of 2008. The decline in sales is significant, however, it should be noted that sales in 2008 were at an exceptionally high level. Car sales in the first quarter of 2009 are similar to those in the first quarter of years prior to 2008 (see chart). Over the five year period from 2003-2007 January to March car sales averaged 4,480.

The value of car sales and leases was $127 million in the first quarter of 2009, down 24.6% over the same period of 2008.  

National

Canada as a whole also recorded a significant decline (-22.0%) in car sales in the first quarter of 2009. The value of national car sales decreased by 22.7% over the January to March 2008 period