The UK's new car market grew by nearly a quarter last month as it displayed a 'rebound' from tax rises, an industry body has said.
Market recovery
Some 149,247 new cars were registered in April, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). That represents a 24% increase compared to the same month last year.
Registrations in April 2025 were much lower than normal as many drivers had brought purchases forward to the previous month to avoid incoming tax increases.
Industry reaction
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: "April's rebound is welcome, but underlines just how significantly fiscal changes can influence the market."
The figures suggest the automotive sector is recovering from the disruption caused by the tax changes, though the SMMT cautioned that volatility may continue.
