Japanese car manufacturers made big gains in the West European market during 2003, increasing their sales by nine per cent to just under 1.8 million units.

According to figures released by the European carmakers' association, ACEA, the total market share of Japanese makers increased from 11.5 per cent in 2002 to 12.7 per cent.

Among the companies experiencing the largest jump in sales were Nissan, Mazda, Toyota and Honda.

Following the introduction of new model ranges, Mazda's European market share increased by over 30 per cent year-on-year.

Meanwhile, the market leading Volkswagen Group saw its share decline to 18.2 per cent from 18.4 per cent in 2002.

PSA, Ford, Renault, GM, Fiat and DaimlerChrysler also witnessed slower demand, while the Fiat Group recorded the most dramatic sales decline, down 10.2 per cent.

Industry analysts cited by just-auto.com predict further upheaval in the European car market as competition from Japanese and Korean manufacturers intensifies.

While the overall Western European market decreased by 1.3 per cent in 2003, it is estimated to grow by up to three per cent during 2004.