Steady growth for UK new car market in October
Published Date: 20th Nov 2016
Over 180,000 new cars registered in October – shows a growth of 1.4%.
Alternatively fuelled cars are up 12.4% in the October and 23.3% for 2016.
Year-to-date registrations rise by 2.5% with a record 2,330,663 delivered up to the end of October.
The UK new car market showed steady growth in October following a bumper 66 plate month in September, according to figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Over 180,000 cars were driven off dealer forecourts last month as registrations increased 1.4%.
The Fleet side of the market drove the growth, with demand increasing 4.2%, while registrations to private buyers fell by 1.1% as the market, currently at an all-time high, stabilises after a lengthy period of growth. Alternatively fuelled vehicles continued to grow in popularity, rising 12.4% in October and 23.3% in the year so far to 75,987 registrations – the highest ever level achieved in the first 10 months of the year. Year-to-date performance for the overall market remains ahead by 2.5%, with 2,330,663 new cars registered.
The Vauxhall Astra was the biggest climber in the biggest sellers list, climbing from 6th or 2nd in October. Other climbers include the Nissan Qashqai (up to 3rd) and the ever consistent Audi A3 (up to 5th). The Nissan Juke made an appearance in the top 10 this month, giving Nissan a lot to be positive about. Kia will also be happy with the Kia Sportage making the list, mainly down to the incredible lease deals available on them at the moment.
The Ford Fiesta continued to dominate in October, with 7,806 new registrations, the Ford Focus showed its consistency with a solid 4,096 cars registered for October. Altogether another very good month for Ford despite their Brexit triggered price increase.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, announced,
September’s number plate change is always a hard act to follow so the market’s growth in October, albeit moderate, is welcome news. Low interest rates, affordable finance packages and a range of exciting new models helped attract buyers into showrooms and we now look to government to ensure consumer and business confidence remains buoyant.
