Year-to-date sales and June sales are both down compared to their previous figures, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

June new car sales fell by 3.6% to 219,497 units compared to 2005. Year-to-date figures showed a 4.2% drop to 1,241,925 units.

However, supermini registrations were up 2.1% and the diesel market share hit a record high for June with 38.9%.

SMMT chief executive, Christopher Macgowan said: “In a market that has wobbled on the back of weaker consumer confidence and higher fuel costs, it's not surprising that supermini cars and diesel models are picking up.

“New car buyers are increasingly aware of the benefits of smaller cars and those powered by highly-efficient and cleaner diesel engines. For company car drivers too, the tax benefits have never been clearer.”

Northern Ireland is the only region of the UK which has made an increase in new car sales, an 8% rise in June and a 5.10% rise year-to date.

British nation		June-05		June-06		% change		Jan-June 2005		Jan-June 2006		% change
England		191,570		183,636		-4.14		1,092,996		1,044,259		-4.46
Northern Ireland		6,513		7,037		8.05		38178		40124		5.10
Scotland		19,548		18,797		-3.84		107966		102755		-4.83
Wales		8,309		8,195		-1.37		48766		45988		-5.70
GRAND TOTAL		225,940		217,665		-3.66		1,287,906		1,233,126		-4.25

Note: Channel Islands & Isle of Man new car Registrations not Included.