Ford said Thursday its Focus remained the world’s best-selling vehicle in 2013, according to its own analysis of new vehicle registration data from market research firm IHS Automotive.

Registrations of the Focus compact increased 8.1 percent, with sales of 1.097 million cars globally last year. That compares with sales of 1.014 million units in 2012.

Sales of the Focus almost doubled to 403,219 vehicles in China during the same period. Now 1 in 3 Focus cars is sold in the crucial Chinese market, according to the carmaker.

The news comes as a new Focus four-door sedan is scheduled to debut at the 2014 New York International Auto Show kicking off on April 18.

The debut of the new sedan and the Focus Electric in New York follows the Geneva Motor Show debut in March of the Focus three- and five-door hatchback and wagon. A new version of the performance Focus ST will be shown later this year.

“It is remarkable to see Focus again lead the industry as the No. 1-selling vehicle nameplate on the planet,” said Jim Farley, executive vice president of Ford’s global marketing, sales and service. “With the new car, we’ve raised the bar again, showcasing Ford’s commitment to continuous improvement ― adding better technology for drivers and a sleeker, more modern exterior across the entire Focus family.”

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)