August 2026 new car registrations grew by 13.7% to 94,236 units in a month that is normally quieter due to the upcoming new car registration plate change, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The Ford Puma topped both the monthly and year to date registration charts. In second place for the month was the Jaecoo 7 with the MG HS in third place.

The top three most registered electric cars for last month were: First place Tesla Model 3, second place Tesla Model Y and the Vauxhall Frontera in third.

August was a bright spot for the new car market and another strong month for electric car uptake, showing that motorists are responding to the huge choice and compelling offers available. But August is a low-volume month, so September will be the acid test. The industry is doing everything it can to help drivers switch, but mandate targets must be grounded in the reality of demand. Government’s review is the right move so we can ensure the transition is kept on track, consumer choice protected and the jobs and investment necessary to deliver net zero and economic growth are safeguarded.

Said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive.

About the author

Sheridan is an independent automotive editor and founder of We Blog Any Car. With over 30 years’ experience in the motor industry, his work focuses on market insight, buying signals, and real world automotive analysis, with a particular interest in the modern classic market.

July 2026 Sees UK New Car Market Continue Its Recovery. Short new car news.