Hyundai has sold 13,622 new vehicles so far this year, a 4% increase over the same period last year.

This has led the South Korean brand to hold a UK market share of 1.64%, up from a 1.48% in April 2005.

Tony Whitehorn, Hyundai Motor UK managing director, said: “The fact Hyundai continues to post strong sales performances in a troubled new car market is a great testimony to the strength and potential of the brand.

“With further developments in our product range before the end of the year and with the full sales impact of our recently launched Amica city car and new Santa Fe SUV still to be realised, we are optimistic of even better results to come.”