Sales of new cars dip as drivers opt for used imports

SALES of new cars have dipped as more people opt to buy second-hand cars abroad.

Dealerships are hoping for a midsummer pickup in new car sales after the 182-reg period started yesterday on the back of a fall in registrations over the first six months of the year.

The latest figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry show registrations for last month were down 4.5pc for the first six months – and 10.4pc for June.

A key factor in dampening new car demand is the continuous surge in the number of second-hand imports being bought here. To date they are running 12.8pc (51,879) ahead of last year.