September Sales Up in France, Italy, Spain

New-car deliveries gained in three of Europe's largest markets last month, according to industry and government data.

An extra selling day helped boost sales in France 6% to 151,100 units, CCFA reports. On an adjusted basis, sales rose 2%. The increase was led by PSA Peugeot Citroen (+17% to 46,300 units) and Renault Group (+5% to 40,000 units). Volkswagen Group volume dropped 4% to 17,300.

In Italy, year-on-year deliveries advanced 3% to 110,400 vehicles, according to the country's transport ministry.

Sales in Spain surged 26% to 57,000 units, ANFAC reports. Sales, which have now surpassed year-earlier levels for 13 straight months, have been aided by the government's continuing old-car scrappage scheme.