New statistics from Motorcheck.ie show that sales of new cars are now just 6% behind those recorded for 2012. A modest rise in sales for October of 4% helped to narrow the gap on last year’s total.

20% of the total registrations for October were carried out on the last day of the month with 331 new cars given a 132 number plate yesterday.

The total number of cars given a new number plate this year is 73,139. 4,803 units behind last year’s total of 77,942 for the same period.

Volkswagen maintain the top spot with 13% of sales. Only 77 units seperate second and third place with Toyota and Ford both occupying 10% of the market each.

The Volkswagen Golf remains Ireland's most popular model this year with 3,660 (5% of the total market) units sold. The Nissan Qashqai is in second place with 2,929 (4%) units registered whilst the Ford Focus takes third position with 2,786 (3.8%) registrations.

Commenting on the latest statistics Motorcheck.ie Co-Founder Shane Teskey said "Even though sales for new cars are still extremely low, market share is as important as ever hence the burst of activity on the last day of the month. The fact that the motor industry's call for a swappage scheme was overlooked in this years' budget means that any forecast for 2014 will be full of uncertainty with growing fears for jobs in the sector".

Diesel engines remain more popular than petrol with 73% of the total number of cars sold. Meanwhile, more people are buying smaller car with 94% of all new cars registered were in Band A or Band B. Just 44 Electric Cars have been registered this year.

Suzanne Sheridan, SIMI Press Officer said: "While the industry had a boost from the mid-year 132 number plate, it doesn't hide the fact that it has been a very difficult year with sales about half of normal levels."

"However, car dealers are now gearing up for the new year and with a forecast for economic growth next year, the industry is already offering customers deals on '141 cars.' Many dealers are already reporting enquiries for new cars for January."