I suspect that's because in these dodgy economic times people are at last waking up to the fact that a new car or even a nearly new car--whether bought with cash or a PCP is a heck of a lot of dosh.

No doubt there will be a lot of pre-reg cars at the end of March. People will spend a lot of money to avoid paying higher vehicle excise duty rates. But will the new rates really slow down car sales for the rest of the year? I can't see it personally. As more people move towards monthly payment for their cars, the total purchase price become less important and people buy a car for £xx per month.

One of the 31st March registrations will be ours though, wife has opted out of her company car scheme, but wants peace of mind of a newer car. Combine that with deposit allowances, 0% finance and a good deal from the dealer etc and the monthly cost worked out less than a 6 month old identical car. Not the cheapest form of motoring, granted.

There will be some canny people out there taking advantage of end of quarter targets and getting a good deal on new cars.