UK sales of the Cowely-built Mini took another leap in September, latest figures have revealed.

Statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show 9,690 cars were sold, a rise of more than 28 per cent on the same month last year.

And for the year to date, 38,147 new Minis have found owners, more than 16 per cent ahead of the same period in 2010.

The sales surge is set to continue following the launch of the new Coupe model this month.

Overall, Mini is continuing to buck the national trend with UK sales down by 0.8 per cent at 332,476 cars.

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “SMMT has revised down its 2012 registrations forecast to 1.96 million units, a reflection of the continued weakness in UK domestic demand and uncertainty across European economies.

“It is important Government acts to sustain an investment-led recovery and implements measures to encourage more private sector investment in research and development, skills, new plants and machinery.”