A total of 44,826 new cars were sold in Scotland’s last month marking yet another record month for motor registrations.

The figure released by industry body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders constituted an increase of just over 2.5 per cent year-on-year.

Across the UK, the number of cars sold rise by 6 per cent to 492,774, the SMMT said.

March, which is typically a strong month for car registrations as it is when new number plates are released, was the 37th month of consecutive growth for the UK’s new car market.

The SMMT said the figures reflect “the continuing demand for new products and new fuel-efficient and advanced technologies”.

Scottish Motor Trade Association chief executive Douglas Robertson said: “We are very pleased to see another record month for Scottish new car registrations.

“Though the increase is small, it is close to what we expected.

“Whilst fleet and business sales have increased over the last 12 months, the Scottish market remains consumer-driven and we have little doubt that the availability of PCPs and other finance options continues to drive the market.”

The biggest-selling car last month was the Vauxhall Corsa, followed by the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus.

Commenting on the figures, Euan Murray of Barclays Corporate Banking said: “The UK and Scottish motor trade’s winning streak continued last month in record style, with new car sales lifted by March’s all-important plate change and strong demand for fleet vehicles.

“The question on everyone’s mind is how long this phenomenal run can continue and whether April will be able to drive home another record month.”

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “The best month this century for new car registrations is a welcome boost for the UK’s thriving automotive sector. The challenge for a new government and industry will be to maintain this momentum and to strengthen Britain’s manufacturing capabilities through continued investment, innovation and policies which maintain our global competitiveness. Whatever the general election result, the new government must keep up the commitment to the sector which is delivering at home and abroad.”

The SMMT’s top Scottish sellers in March were:

1. Vauxhall Corsa 3,095

2. Ford Fiesta 2,471

3. Ford Focus 1,294

4. Vauxhall Mokka 1,179

5. Renault Clio 1,240