New car sales down 6 per cent despite October spike

New car sales for October were up 2 per cent on on the corresponding month last year, but year to date are down 6 per cent, figures released by SIMI confirm.

Suzanne Sheridan, SIMI Press Officer said: “While the industry had a boost from the mid-year 132 number plate, it doesn’t hide the fact that it has been a very difficult year.”

“However, car dealers are now gearing up for the New Year and with a forecast for economic growth next year, the industry is already offering customers deals on 141 cars. Many dealers are already reporting enquiries for new cars for January.”

A total of 1,696 cars were sold in October compared with 1,658 last year. The top three selling barnds for the month were Volkswagen followed by Toyota and Skoda. The top 3 selling models were the Opel Insignia followed by the Dacia Duster and Volkswagen Polo.

To the end of October, 73,395 cars have been sold so far this year compared with
78,375 for the same period last year. The top 3 selling brands so far this year are Volkswagen followed by Toyota and Ford.

Top 3 selling models are the Volkswagen Golf followed by the Nissan Qashqai and Ford Focus.