European new car registrations returned to growth in May, driven by double-digit increases in many of the major markets.

European car registrations totalled 1.4 million units in May 2017 (+7.5% year-on-year).

Figures from JATO Dynamics show European car registrations totalled 1.4 million units in May 2017, an increase of 7.5% when compared to the same month last year, and the highest May total for a decade.

Germany was a significant driver of the growth, the country posted an increase of 12.9%, Italy also performed well, recording an increase of 7.6% to become Europe’s second largest market. Other significant markets such as Spain, Poland, the Netherlands and Austria all posted double-digit increases.

The Volkswagen Golf retained its position as Europe’s most popular car model – with the Polo taking second place – but the figures also showed a growing divide between the performance of three and five-door hatchbacks as European consumer preferences continue to evolve.

In total, registrations of 2/3 door versions of city-cars, subcompacts and compacts declined by 8.4% in May to 76,800 units while their 4/5 door counterparts posted a 5.1% increase, registering 594,300 units. Already this year, the market has seen the  news that the new SEAT Ibiza, Volkswagen Polo and Kia Picanto models will only be available in five-door versions.

Felipe Munoz, global automotive analyst at JATO Dynamics, said: “The presentation of the new VW Polo in June with the omission of a three-door model is a symptom of a fundamental decline that could see three-door hatchbacks vanishing from roads. There are many reasons for this, but the increasing practicality of cautious consumers is a major factor. As manufacturers shun three-door vehicles meaning less choice for customers, the three-door hatch – once a synonym for sportiness – could soon be consigned to history.”