Ford Philippines announced that despite the implementation of the new excise tax, February retail sales still rose 24 percent from a year ago to 1,860 units driven by its big three: the Ranger, Everest, and EcoSport.

“We are starting to feel the impact of the new auto excise taxes, though still retain a positive outlook for 2018 in line with the country’s positive economic forecasts,” said Bertrand Lessard, managing director, Ford Philippines.

The Ranger led February numbers with sales increasing 125 percent year-over-year to 886 units. Year-to-date, Ranger sales have risen 41 percent to 1,566 vehicles.

Meanwhile, Everest sales dropped in February to just 415 units. This is compared to 994 units last January. Still, sales are up 13 percent year-to-date to 1,409 units.

The EcoSport is equally hit by the new excise tax (and a slew of newer vehicle offerings). February sales dropped to 477 units, down 862 units compared to January.

Overall, Ford Philippines’s year-to-date sales have increased 14 percent to 4,597 vehicles.