RICHMOND HILL, Ontario -

Canada’s new-vehicle sales in June climbed more than 6 percent year-over-year, and while automakers continue to struggle in the midst of production challenges, several companies posted record sales for the month.

Overall, there were 164,796 new units sold in Canada, up 6.6 percent from June 2010, according to the Market Snapshot provided by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants that includes information from DesRosiers, the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers of Canada and the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association.

Through the first half of the year, Canada’s new sales have hit 807,772 units, up 2.7 percent from the first six months of 2010.

And June was particularly kind to some automakers.

BMW Group Canada, for example, had its best month ever, as the BMW and Mini brands combined to sell 4,164 units, up 18.9 percent year-over-year. Through June, its sales have reached 16,884 vehicles, which marks a year-to-date record, as well.

Likewise, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 3,286 Mercedes-Benz and smart units in June, which is the strongest month ever for the company and a 5.7-percent uptick from May.

The company has moved 16,760 units in the first six months of the year, its strongest year-to-date total ever, and its second-quarter sales of 9,682 are the strongest second-quarter performance of all time for the company.

“Mercedes-Benz Canada continued its exceptional product offensive with the launch of the SLK350 this month. Available now in dealerships across the country, the third generation roadster features a striking new design and impressive technical innovations that continue to set the standard in its class with respect to advanced safety and refined comfort,” said Tim Reuss, president and chief executive of Mercedes-Benz Canada.

“The new SLK further strengthens our overall vehicle range, which is by far the most impressive ever in the company’s history. With exciting designs, innovative technology and unmatched safety systems, we demonstrate our continued commitment to always offer our customers the absolute best in the automotive industry,” he continued.

Several other automakers posted best-ever sales, including Nissan Canada, even as it faces the challenges from the earthquake in Japan. It moved 11,293 units, an increase of 40.2 percent year-over-year.

“Exceeding 10,000 vehicles this month is a significant milestone for Nissan Canada and our strong product lineup, along with the support of our marketing programs, has led us to achieve our best sales month ever," said Allen Childs, president of Nissan Canada. "We’re also pleased to see some strength in the market overall.”

On the domestic front, General Motors said it sold 27,865 units in June, an increase of 12.5-percent year-over-year.

“We’ve set out to design, build and sell the world’s best vehicles, and global successes like Cruze demonstrate we’re on track and hitting the mark with customers," said Marc Comeau, vice-president of sales, service and marketing at GM of Canada.

“With gas prices on the rise, customers have embraced fuel efficiency leaders such as the Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, with more to come this fall when Chevrolet launches Volt, Sonic and Orlando,” he added.

Meanwhile, Chrysler Canada improved its sales 27 percent to 23,576 units. This is the 19th month in a row the company has seen its sales increase.

“Our 16 all-new or significantly refreshed products offer the right mix of fuel efficiency, performance, functionality and value that Canadian consumers expect,” stated Reid Bigland, President and CEO of Chrysler Canada. “With prestigious recognitions from J.D. Power about the quality of our products and a 27 percent increase in sales, that’s further evidence the hard work and long hours dedicated to continuously improving our vehicles has paid off.”

According to DesRosiers’ data, Ford moved 33,444 units in June, up 5.5 percent year-over-year.