DEMAND for luxury and individuality has fueled an explosion in the number of models available in the new car market.

There are 4,506 new cars available now more than 26 per cent up on the number in showrooms in 1998.

Major growth seen over the past four years has accelerated this year.

The trend has been fueled by advances in car-building technology but it is driven largely by increased demand in the luxury and prestige sectors, according to experts at CAP, independent intelligence suppliers to the industry. Mercedes has increased its model range from 180 cars in 1998 to 447 today. BMW has almost doubled its range over the same period from 118 to 210.

Jaguar has seen a spectacular increase from just nine models to the 46.

Increased demand for niche vehicles such as 4x4s has seen the Land Rover range grow from 54 to 83 models.

CAP spokesman Helen Butterworth said: "We have seen a massive increase in choice because manufacturers believe appealing to the individual means offering them the chance to drive something different from the neighbours."