Figures released from SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) show a decline in new car sales in May of 22.5%. There were 5,963 new cars sold in May, 1,734 fewer than in May 2012.

Alan Nolan, Director General of SIMI says; "The May figures are continuing the trend of what has been a very poor year, the Year to Date figure being 14.5% down on the first five months of last year. It is clear that there has been even less spending in the Domestic Economy this year than in recent years, which were not good to begin with.

"Alan Nolan continues; "At this time of year the Motor Industry is usually beginning to ease down, as the second half of the year approaches, and traditionally sales begin to tail off until the New Year. This year with the new '132' registration period beginning on the July 1st, there are now real benefits for consumers buying at this time of year and the Industry is gearing up for some extra interest and activity in July.  Certainly June should be a really good shopping month for consumers, with great offers and trade-in values to buy in June, as well as the potential for a new 132 plate."

New cars:

      . Toyota was the top selling car make in May 
      . The Nissan Qashqai was the bestselling car in May
      . 27% of cars sold in May were petrol, 72% diesel 
      . Silver was the most popular car colour in May         
      . 57% of cars fell into the lowest CO2 emission category

New LCV's (vans/light trucks)

      . Ford was the top selling van make in May
      . The Volkswagen Caddy was the best selling van in May

New HCV's (trucks)

      . Volvo was the top selling truck brand in May