Dealer profitability within the Mitsubishi UK network is at its highest level in history after sales in the first quarter increased by 7% compared to the same period last year.

Q1 also saw a 64% increase in the UK pick-up market compared to 2010, which has been a significant contributor to Mitsubishi’s early 2011 success. The Japanese brand’s L200 took a 27.6% share of the pick-up market and said sales of its Shogun, Outlander and ASX all performed above expectations.

Lance Bradley, Mitsubishi Motors UK’s managing director, said: “While our sales have increased, we have been careful to ensure this has not been at the expense of dealer profitability.

“Our latest figures from both 2010 and Q1 2011 show that dealer profitability is at its highest level in the history of the company.

“To increase profitability as well as sales volume is a great success, which I am sure is part of the reason why we are getting more and more dealers apply for the franchise.”