PUBLIC confusion over new car pricing issues has led two major dealer groups to issue profits warnings. Both Pendragon and Sytner Group have issued statements that reveal a significant slow-down in new car sales since September.

Pendragon blamed the slow-down on two principal factors: 'The well publicised potential for harmonisation of new car prices between the UK and continental Europe, and statements in mid-September from certain key manufacturers concerning pricing policies.'

This was a reference to Ford's promise that pledged to reimburse anyone who bought a new Ford between September and the end of December, only to find themselves out of pocket because the list price of the car was subsequently reduced.