Well this week saw the end of the extra long February and, despite my best efforts, not one of the young damsels around Spoiler Towers were forthcoming with a leap year proposal. So, it's time to turn our attention to spring and the key automotive month of March. With the nights drawing out and even some reasonable economic news in the headlines, I for one am looking at the next few months optimistically.

For dealers and manufacturers throughout the UK March is the most important month in the calendar, with around 350,000 new cars expected to be sold. The plate change is likely to equate to almost 20% of the expected annual total for 2012. In financial terms the new 12-plate will see UK car buyers spending in the region of £5bn over the course of the month.

March is the biggest sales month for UK dealers, with the other plate-change month of September normally being the second busiest. More than 300 models are currently on the market, representing one of the biggest ever choices for UK motorists. With manufacturers producing cars that are offering new levels of build quality, economy and excellent value for money, there has never been a better time to buy a new car...well not since they stopped selling the Capri anyway!

Sales for March last year totaled 366,101, which was down from the 397,383 shifted in 2010. But the automotive industry as a whole will be hoping that 2012 doesn't continue this downward trend and provides some real impetus for the rest of the year. The month is also expected to see significant demand for dealer finance which accounted for 63% of all new car sales in 2011, according to the Finance & Leasing Association figures.

So, here's hoping that consumers jump at the great vehicles on offer and make the most of the better weather to snap up a bargain.
Have a great weekend.
The Spoiler