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New car marketNewsDealerprofileNew car newsUsed carRecruitmentanalysisNewsdigestShowroomNew car marketBy Tim RoseThe motor retail industry has welcomed a stable start to 2012 as official figures show the drop in new car sales flattened.Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealed 128,853 new cars were registered in the first month of the year, which equated to a 0.03% rise - 42 more cars - on January 2011.Dealers should also be heartened that the result included a 2.3% uplift in private registrations. Perhaps the consumer was in 'January sales' fever. Motor retailers which AM spoke to last month had appeared relatively buoyed, and said their carmakers had "turned on the taps" with marketing spend which was bringing more customers into their showrooms.Sales to business customers declined significantly, however fleet demand remained strong, continuing to support the overall market.The January result was "a welcome sign of stability in uncertain economic times" according to Paul Everitt, chief executive of the SMMT. He said: "2012 is set to be an exciting year with record numbers of new models coming to market filled with innovative technology that will save the motorist fuel, enhance comfort and further increase levels of safety and security. "However, to maintain market stability, Govern-ment must act decisively and deliver much needed confidence to businesses and consumers."His counterpart at the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association, director Sue Robinson, said: "The growth in sales last month shows some sign that the market is finally beginning to recover. Top 10 models in January by UK regionClick here January 2012new car regs by UK regionClick here Carmakers' increased marketing pays dividends with a stable opening to 2012New year car sales start off with slight increase'The growth in sales last month shows some sign that the market is finally beginning to recover'Sue RobinsonSue RobinsonPaul Everitt