The UK’s new car market surged nearly 14 per cent in September, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) – but behind the headline growth lies a dramatic reshaping of the industry’s heritage and buyers’ loyalty to traditional brands.
Commenting on the results, Stuart Masson, Editorial Director of The Car Expert, said the data reveals a “seismic shift” in market dynamics, with Chinese manufacturers rapidly overtaking established European names. Of the 38,000 additional cars registered last month compared with September 2024, around 27,000 came from just three Chinese groups: BYD, Chery (including Omoda and Jaecoo), and MG.
BYD alone sold more than 11,000 cars in September, surpassing Renault and closing in on Vauxhall, Peugeot and Nissan. Meanwhile, new entrants Omoda and Jaecoo have…