Figures produced by market analyst Jato show that new car sales dropped in Europe during the first half of 2011 compared to the same period last year. Total sales were down by 7.8% to 7.317 million units. France and Germany were the only two ‘big 5’ markets to record increased sales during the half year, up by 1% and 10% respectively. The UK, Spain and Italy dropped, in order, by 7%, 27% and 13%.

Where brands are concerned, Volkswagen remains in top spot, putting on almost 6% to over 880,000 units. Its stable-mate Audi also performed well, up by 8.7% (a similar figure to BMW), helped by the new A1 model. Opel/Vauxhall increased by almost 3%, Mercedes by less than 1%, and all other top ten brands were down. The Volkswagen Golf continues to be Europe’s most popular car, despite sales down by over 7% during the period, followed by the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa, with the Opel/Vauxhall Astra and Renault Clio inseparable in 5th place.

Jato believes that the ongoing economic uncertainty in Europe contribute to keeping buyers away from the showrooms in the first half of 2011.