The UK's new car market in February ended at 66,749 registrations, 7.9% higher than February 2012.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said growth was boosted by private demand again, with February securing the highest growth in the private market since the end of the Scrappage Incentive Scheme in spring 2010.

February is typically the smallest volume monthly market, ahead of the March plate-change month.

"UK new car registrations have risen every month for the last year with February continuing the trend, growing 7.9% year-on-year boosted by the highest increase in private consumer demand since spring 2010," said Mike Baunton, interim chief executive, SMMT.

"However, February is traditionally a low volume month as motorists look forward to the plate-change in March, but attractive new car deals are sustaining the market. New models are delivering ever greater fuel efficiency, practicality, refinement, technology and predictable ownership costs, so motorists are seeing the benefit of new car purchases."

Sue Robinson, director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), said: “In previous years February has tended to report a low market in unit numbers, particularly in retail sales, as consumers wait for the plate change on March 1.

"Therefore it is encouraging that February experienced such increased sales with the market supported by strong manufacturer deals and offers that are encouraging consumers to buy.

“We expect market growth to continue at a similar level during March with dealers already reporting boosted sales. There continues to be a strong demand from consumers.”