New car registrations drop 2.5% in February

February 2012 new car registration figures: New car registrations were down 2.5% in February according to the latest figures released today by the SMMT.

61,868 cars were registered in the month, with the market 2.5% or 1,556 units down on February 2011 (which was down 7.7% on February 2010).

“The February new car market was broadly in line with industry expectations with a welcome increase in private retail activity,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. “The March market will provide a much better indicator of industry health than the relatively low volumes traditionally seen in February. It is extremely important that the Chancellor uses this month’s Budget to strengthen consumer and business confidence by encouraging private sector investment and avoiding any further squeeze on living standards.”

Top ten best sellers February

1	Fiesta	22,667
2	Corsa	17,271
3	Focus	15,086
4	Golf	11,945
5	Astra	9,965
6	Qashqai	8,487
7	Polo	7,748
8	Yaris	6,973
9	207	6,948
10	3 Series	6,472