Diesel registrations motor on during quiet May

However, year-to-date registrations saw a 2.2% rise to 1,044,436, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Diesel registrations recorded a 7.2% rise in May to 404,658 units.

“The ever-frugal motorist has helped limit climate change through reduced tailpipe emissions by purchasing more cars with fuel-efficient diesel engines,” said Christopher Macgowan, chief executive of SMMT.

The practicality and adaptability of MPVs helped the segment volume more than double since 2000. In May the MPV market jumped a further 21.1% as new models, largely from Ford, bore fruit. Vauxhall's Zafira still dominates the segment, and just missed out on a top 10 slot.

The Focus headed the overall best sellers list, once again. But most segments, including the lower medium sector where the Focus resides, saw volumes decline in May. The popular supermini segment remained up 5.8% over the year-to-date, with 341,814 units.