That’s the finding of latest data from JATO Dynamics which indicates that the slower sales in May were a blip in an otherwise strong start to the year.

In total 25 of the 29 markets studied showed H1 2015 growth, with four recording growth of over 20%.

Brian Walters, vice president of data at JATO Dynamics, commented: “Confidence in the European market last month was clearly well placed, as the car industry reported strong sales growth for the first half of the year in most markets.”

JATO added that Volkswagen reinforced its position as the leading car brand in Europe, as it increased total H1 2015 sales by 9.1%. Renault took second place, with Ford in third. All the top ten brands recorded increased sales, with Mercedes-Benz and Renault achieving growth of more than 10%, benefitting from the success of modern products such as the latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Renault Captur.

Outside the top 10, Jeep, Lamborghini, smart, Infiniti and SsangYong all reported strong growth in H1 2015, helped by new products.

The Volkswagen Golf remained Europe’s best-selling car in H1 2015, with sales up 2.2% for the half year, although this represents a slight reduction in market share. Behind the Golf, four B-segment models, the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa took the next four places.

The biggest volume increase in the top ten was recorded by the new Volkswagen Passat, which rose 39.3% in H1 2015 compared to its predecessor’s performance a year ago.

Beyond the top 10 the trend is much the same, added JATO, as most models recorded increased sales, but the greatest increases were achieved by new or revised models, such as the Ford Mondeo, Renault Twingo, and Peugeot 308. Of particular note are the increased sales of small crossover models, both new and longer-established, such as the Renault Captur, Opel/Vauxhall Mokka, Peugeot 2008, Nissan Juke, Citroën C4 Cactus, Fiat 500X and Suzuki Vitara.

“Following this strong first-half performance across a diverse range of brands and models, the industry is well placed for a successful second half of the year,” Brian Walters concluded.