Among the highlights was a 43.6% rise recorded in July for the C-Class Saloon, placing it in first place within its hard-fought competitor set. The new, 13MY C-Class range was placed ninth overall in the UK registrations for July, according to the SMMT report, recording strong results in both the private and fleet markets.

The CLS and S-Class each lead their respective markets, recording a 44.4% and 39.3% segment share for July.

The AMG high performance division continues its impressive start to the year, led by the C 63 AMG Saloon and the C 63 AMG Coupé. A 140.8% rise in sales for AMG in July contributed to an overall 149.3% rise for the year to date.

Registrations of Mercedes-Benz vans increased by 6.7% in July to record a total of 1,649 vehicles, accounting for a 15.7% rise for the year to date.

The New Actros truck recorded a 67.5% rise in July, contributing to a 63.4% rise over the course of the year.

Marcus Breitschwerdt, president and chief executive officer of Mercedes-Benz UK, said: ‘In what remains a highly competitive market, Mercedes-Benz achieved record figures, performing beyond expectations. Key vehicles such as the C-Class and S-Class lead their segments, whilst our vans and trucks have each recorded double digit rises in a market that is down overall.

‘We are in the midst of incredibly exciting times for Mercedes-Benz UK as we prepare for the launch of the new A-Class and the new Citan van. These are tremendous results and a fitting demonstration of the strength of the products – in terms of efficiency, relevance and desirability – we currently offer in the UK,’ he added.