Mitsubishi's overall sales fell 17 percent in September. (WJBC File Photo)

By Paul Morello

NORMAL - Mitsubishi's overall sales fell again last month, but the automaker reported record high sales of the Outlander Sport.

Mitsubishi spokesman Dan Irvin said Tuesday overall sales were down 17.2 percent in September compared to last year but Outlander Sport saw a 49 percent increase in year-over-year sales.

"People probably have seen the 'Unpretentious' television campaign that's been running this month, so that's drawn a lot of attention to the brand," Irvin said. "We also like to think that it's made in the U.S.A., right here in Normal, Illinois, has something to do with it."

Mitsubishi sold 2,253 Outlander Sports in September, and overall sales totalled 4,806 units.

Irvin said the overall numbers are misleading because they're being compared to last year's sales, which included the Galant, Eclipse and Endeavor, which are no longer produced.

"We're probably winding down those negative comparisons. Starting next month, or certainly in November, we'll be comparing apples to apples," he said.

By comparison, Chrysler reported a 12 percent increase in sales, while Ford's sales last month were flat compared to last year.

Metro News contributed to this report.

Paul Morello can be reached at paul@wjbc.com.