According to the CAP NVD database the number of new car model ranges on sale in the UK now stands at 760 – with a total of 5,776 derivatives.

This represents a 23 per cent increase in individual model ranges and a massive 31 per cent rise in the number of derivatives compared with exactly three years ago, when the total stood at 615, with 4,404 variants. 2003 saw 182 new model ranges introduced, along with 2,200 new derivatives of those and existing models.

A look at the two leading manufacturers reveals an increase in the number of model ranges over the past three years of 33 per cent for Ford – from 21 to 28 – and 41 per cent in the case of Vauxhall. The latter shows a rise from 29 to 41 model ranges currently available – although some have ceased production but remain available while remaining stock is cleared by dealers.

CAP NVD manager, Helen Butterworth said: “The ability to develop entire ranges of cars from a common base, with differentiating features effectively 'bolted' on to satisfy individual customer demand, has transformed the new car market.

“Looking back just five years, the number of derivatives has increased by 74 per cent, which represents a massive growth in the choice on offer.”