Mazda Motor Corporation will expand production of its CX-5 compact SUV for the second-generation 2017 model that has become the automaker's leading seller.

Mazda is adding producton capacity at Hofu Plant in Yamaguchi starting in November. The CX-5 will continue to be produced at Hiroshima Plant. The move will allow Mazda to "respond quickly and flexibly to growing demand for SUVs globally," according to a release.

Mazda is working to create a production system that can respond flexibly to changes in demand for crossover vehicles so it can meet a global sales goal of 1.65 million units. In December, the company began producing the Mazda CX-3 subcompact SUV at Hofu plant in addition to Hiroshima Plant.

Mazda launched the 2017 CX-5 in February. In nearly the first month, sales reached 16,639 units, which is about seven times the monthly target.