Latest figures from the UK car sales market have highlighted some interesting demand trends, as motorists car-buying habits adjust to changing times.  Overall sales were down 11.3% year on year, but worryingly the final quarter's figure nose-dived by 27.2%. Within this, luxury cars and 4x4's were the big losers, down 42% and 45% respectively in the last quarter.

One of the few market success stories was the city car, which has seen demand rise and is now very much part of the mainstream market, rather than a quirky off shoot. Other than that, the compact executive car sector (Audi A4, Mercedes C Class etc.) picked up some sales as drivers downsized but still wanted a premium marque.

Jaguar and Rolls-Royce actually managed to increase sales, thanks mainly to new models, while Volvo was the only car maker to show growth with its existing range. Audi and Nissan maintained their previous year's performance, but big losers in the UK market in 2008 were Renault, Land Rover and Porsche, all down around 30%.