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05 March 26 Press releases

Commentary | New Car Registrations February 2026

February delivered another solid month for the new car market, reflecting the underlying strength of buying demand we’ve continued to see so far in 2026. While the situation in the Middle East adds a potential layer of uncertainty for businesses and consumers amid wider economic disruption, the new car market has remained resilient so far. Any sustained shock to oil prices is likely to increase interest in electric vehicles when it feeds into petrol prices, as we saw in 2022.

Key spokesperson

Ian Plummer

Chief Customer Officer

CONNECT

"Overall, our own data points to confidence among car buyers. Visits to our new‑car platform rose 28% month on month in February, and the biggest sales month of the year is in full swing as new plates hit the forecourt. Current data and showroom reports point to a very busy end to the first quarter."

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