Best selling cars in the UK 2024
The Nissan Qashqai family SUV was the most popular new car in 2022, finishing comfortably ahead of the Vauxhall Corsa on the list of the best-selling cars. This is according to figures supplied by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
It looks set to lose its crown in 2023, with the Ford Puma small SUV on course to top the charts. Indeed, sales could hit 50,000, which is around 7000 more than the Qashqai achieved in 2022.
Although popularity isn't a measure of greatness, we're pleased to report that the Puma deserves its success. But what about the other sales heroes? Stay tuned for the best-selling cars in 2022, followed by the bestsellers so far in 2023.
Best-selling cars in 2022
Best-selling cars in November 2023 |
Nissan Qashqai
42,704 registered
The third-generation Nissan Qashqai is much better than the old model when it comes to comfort and quality. It also has a bigger boot and lots of useful touches all around the cabin. There is now a hybrid option, badged e-Power. It's a smooth and refined system that makes the car feel a bit like an EV most of the time, and it costs less than rival plug-in hybrids.
Vauxhall Corsa
35,910 registered
The Corsa was the most popular car in 2021 thanks to its cheap running costs, good level of equipment and excellent road manners. Sales remained consistently strong in 2022, and at the time of writing, it looks like it's destined for a top three finish in 2023. The availability of an electric version enhances its appeal, while a recent facelift will ensure sales are solid in 2024.
Tesla Model Y
35,551 registered
The Tesla Model Y SUV shares around 75% of its components with the Model 3 and although it's a more expensive option that the 3 it offers extra practicality. Extra body height of 150mm means more room for passengers and luggage. The Tesla Model Y is also a hatchback, unlike the Model 3, which means much better access.
Read our full Tesla Model Y review
Ford Puma
35,088 registered
The Ford Puma is one of the best cars on sale with its huge boot and excellent road handling making it practical and fun. The EcoBoost petrol engine is a perfect partner for the Puma's sharp handling while the comfortable cabin makes it great for long motorway trips. No wonder it's going to top the sales chart in 2023.
MINI Hatch
32,387 registered
The three-door hatch is the cornerstone of the MINI range and has consistently featured in the monthly best-sellers. Few rivals can match the MINI's looks and style or its fun driving. Like some others in this class, MINI has dropped its diesel engine offerings, but buyers can choose from petrol and electric versions.
Kia Sportage
29,655 registered
The current Kia Sportage has a distinctive look – even bolder than the new Hyundai Tucson. It's no longer a budget buy with a near-£30,000 start price but you do get a lot of kit for your money, backed by Kia's seven-year warranty.
Hyundai Tucson
27,839 registered
The new look Hyundai Tucson, which you'll either love or loathe, is a step change for the brand. It lifts it from being a competent but fairly bland family SUV to a more desirable model, while still being hugely practical with one of the biggest boot spaces in the class at 620 litres. Diesel is no longer an option but you can choose from petrol and hybrid power, including mild-hybrid, conventional hybrid and plug-in hybrid.
Volkswagen Golf
26,558 registered
The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf has all the traits you would expect – it rides and handles well, it's comfortable, it feels solid, it's well-equipped as standard, and it should prove cheap to run. However, its siblings the SEAT Leon and Skoda Octavia, which it shares its engines and platforms with, are cheaper and roomier.
Ford Kuga
26,549 registered
The Ford Kuga is one of the best SUVs, with its attractive styling and efficient range of engines making it popular with family car buyers. Spacious and practical, the Kuga gets lots of equipment fitted as standard, which means you don't need to raid the options list to get the best version. All models get alloy wheels, touchscreen navigation and parking sensors as standard, while mid-spec cars also feature LED headlights and an electric tailgate.
Ford Fiesta
25,070 registered
Production of the Ford Fiesta has stopped, but buyers continue to snap up the eighth generation model while stocks last. It gives car buyers plenty of choice with a number of engines available, three- and five-door body styles, a hot model and an SUV-style version. Most versions are good to drive, especially ST-Line.