DEARBORN, Michigan (AFP) - Ford Motor Co. said Tuesday its U.S. sales rose five percent compared with a year ago as the sputtering auto giant got a lift from new car models and stabilization in the weak truck market.

Ford said its dealers delivered 238,848 vehicles to U.S. customers in September, amid a few bright spots in what has been a declining picture for the number two US carmaker.

Car sales were up 26 percent amid strong demand for the company's new mid-size cars.

Truck sales, which include the once-popular sport utility vehicles hit by high fuel costs, were down five percent, but full-size pickup trucks and SUVs showed signs of stabilizing, Ford said.

"We're pleased by the continued strong demand for our cars and the solid performance posted by the F-Series (pickup) truck and Explorer and Expedition SUVs," said Al Giombetti, president, Ford and Lincoln Mercury sales and marketing.

Combined sales for the company's new mid-size sedans totaled 16,208 for the month.

On the negative side, the domestic luxury nameplate Lincoln saw a 24 percent decline in sales from a year ago.

Ford's international luxury brands saw mixed fortunes. Jaguar sales fell 45.8 percent while Volvo and Land Rover saw increases of 1.7 and 1.3 percent, respectively. Ford is reported to be interested in selling these brands in its so-called Premier Automotive Group.