AN EXPLOSION in the number of new vehicles available has improved choice for buyers, but also made the task of selecting a new model and pricing a used one much more of a challenge, says Glass’s Information Services.

Over the last five years there has been a 24 per cent increase in the number of vehicle model ranges. There has also been a big increase in the number of individual models available in each range. In September, 1997 new car customers had the choice of 3,200 models, but by September, 2002 this had escalated to over 4,600 models.

The main reason is that manufacturers find they need to maximise the opportunities for a sale from every customer inquiry.

Adrian Rushmore, managing editor at Glass’s Information Services, said: ‘‘However, car makers now need to work harder and spend more on every model launch in order to attract the attention of prospective buyers.

“As well as competition from rival manufacturers, individual models also face competition from within the marque. For example, a carmaker’s hatchback, compact MPV, estate and saloon may all compete for the attention of the same buyer.”