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

Read the full Nissan Qashqai review

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.

Read the full Vauxhall Corsa review

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.

Read the full Ford Puma review

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. 

Read the full MINI review

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.

Read the full Kia Sportage review

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. 

Read our full Hyundai Tucson review

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.

Read the full Volkswagen Golf review

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. 

Read the full Ford Kuga review

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.  

Read the full Ford Fiesta review

Ask HJ

I am rejecting a car for paint damage - can I get my deposit back?

I gave a deposit for a used Alfa Romeo and agreed a date to pick the car up. The day before, I received a phone call telling me I cannot pick the car up that day because it has some paint damage that needs repairing. When I agreed the price a week earlier and test drove the car it was fine, no damage. I have cancelled buying this car, can I get my deposit back?
The answer to this will depend on the cause of the damage. If the car has been involved in an accident since you looked at it then yes, you are entitled to a refund of your deposit. However, if the dealer argues that the damage was already present (and you didn't see it when you inspected the vehicle) then no, you may not be entitled to a refund. This is because the burden falls on the buyer to identify small areas of damage (dent, scratch). If you didn't see the damage then the dealer may argue that he/she is not to blame and insist you buy the car or forfeit your deposit. As with all things, it's best to work with the dealer. They may be happy to return your money and sell the car to someone else.
Answered by Dan Powell
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