UK new car prices edge up in May 2011 as sales slip
The average price of a new car in the UK rose by just £47 in May 2011, while overall registrations fell 1.7% compared to the previous year.
The average price of a new car in the UK rose slightly in May 2011, increasing by 0.167% according to data from drivendata. This change meant buyers were paying an average of £28,206 for a new car in May, up by £47 from April’s figure of £28,159. Although the price increase was modest, it came at a time when the car market was experiencing other notable shifts.
UK New Car Prices Edge Up in May 2011
Sales and Market Trends
Despite the small rise in prices, new car registrations in the UK fell by 1.7% in May 2011 compared to the same month the previous year. Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicated that private demand remained weak. The SMMT pointed to an unsettled economic backdrop that continued to affect consumer confidence, resulting in fewer purchases by individual buyers.
However, not all sectors of the market experienced a downturn. Fleet and business registrations provided some support, both recording growth over the previous year. This growth in fleet sales helped to offset the decline in private purchases, preventing a steeper overall drop in new car sales.
Diesel, Petrol, and Alternative Fuel Vehicle Performance
One of the more significant changes was seen in the types of vehicles being registered. Sales of diesel cars and fleet registrations both climbed by more than 10% in May. This surge in diesel and fleet activity contrasted with the performance of petrol-powered vehicles, which saw a 12.9% decline in sales. As a result, petrol cars’ market share fell from 52% to 46.1%.
Alternative fuel vehicles, meanwhile, maintained their market share at 1.1%. Although this segment remained small, its consistency suggested a steady, if limited, interest in alternatives to traditional petrol and diesel models.
Best-Selling Models
The Ford Fiesta continued to be the most popular new car in the UK, with 8,135 units sold in May 2011. In the diesel segment, the Volkswagen Golf led the way as the best-selling model. These two cars reflected the preferences of UK buyers at the time, with the Fiesta’s popularity among a wide range of customers and the Golf’s appeal to those choosing diesel.
May 2011 UK New Car Market Overview
May 2011 saw a small increase in the average price of new cars in the UK, even as overall registrations declined. The market was supported by strong fleet and diesel sales, while private and petrol car sales fell. Despite economic uncertainty, certain models and segments managed to perform well, highlighting ongoing shifts in buyer preferences and industry trends.
