For the first time in its 59 year history, Land Rover has driven through the 200,000 sales barrier.

Global sales for the legendary 4x4 manufacturer reached 205,717 in November, 27% ahead of the same month last year and putting the company on course for its third successive record sales year. Several markets, including Russia, China, France and Spain, recorded their best ever November.

Land Rover's Managing Director, Phil Popham, said, "This is a significant milestone in Land Rover's history and puts us on a firm footing as we approach our 60th anniversary. This sales achievement has been driven by exciting new product with improved environmental performance. Confidence is high – we're firmly in the black with innovative new products that will continue Land Rover's sustainable development."

The iconic Range Rover, powered by a diesel V8 that delivers a 32% fuel improvement on the petrol version it replaced, and the compact Freelander 2 have driven sales across the world.

Early next year, Land Rover will further demonstrate its commitment to reducing its impact on the environment when it reveals a concept encapsulating the bold evolution of Land Rover design featuring new technologies and lightweight material.