New car sales grew for the 38th consecutive month in April, reaching 185,778 units according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

New car registrations increased by 5.1% compared to the same month in 2014 to reach the highest April figure since 2005.

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April’s strong performance, which came after a record first quarter for the sector, tracked a 12-year high for consumer confidence and continued a pattern of growth in new car registrations around general elections that dates back to 1979.

Private sales increased by 2.7% year-on-year in April, reaching 85,980, while fleet car sales rose by 9% to 93,095.

The Ford Fiesta was the best-selling vehicle over the month, with 10,294 cars registered, followed by the Ford Focus (6347) and the Volkswagen Golf (5354). The Vauxhall Corsa was not in the top three best selling cars for the first month this year, although in year-to-date figures it is ranked number 2 with sales of 34,051. Over the first four month of the year, there were 50,098 Ford Fiestas sold.

Year-to-date registrations for 2015 are up 6.4% to 920,366, compared to the same period last year.

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SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "Today’s figures highlight the current strength of consumer confidence, even at a time of such political uncertainty. We are confident that the UK’s new car market – so symbolic of economic mood – will continue to thrive, but long-term success will depend largely on economic and political stability in the months and years ahead. Whatever the outcome of today’s election, the next government must act quickly to uphold economic certainty and reassure consumers and markets."

Chris Sutton ,managing director at Black Horse, said: "April car sales are usually quieter following the March new plate registration boost, however the car industry continues in its upward trajectory. Growth continues to come from businesses who are upgrading their fleets but consumers are also part of this continued success story of the UK economy, so the motor industry has a lot to be proud of. If anything demand may level off over the coming summer months but this shouldn’t cause concern for the industry as a whole as its performance is likely to remain upbeat."