The association of European carmakers, Acea, said consumer uncertainty in November had led to waning private demand in western Europe while sales in emerging markets surged ahead.

Sales in western Europe were down 2.1 per cent in November but shot up 12.4 per cent in new EU member states.

In the year to 30 November total sales were up 1.1 per cent to 14.8 million.
In the major markets last month Spain and Germany suffered downturns but Italy, the UK and France were ahead year-on-year.

Volkswagen remained Europe's top selling carmaker in November despite an 8.4 per cent downturn. Ford and Opel/Vauxhall also fell back but Renault enjoyed a long awaited upturn of 5.6 per cent following the launch of the new Laguna.