The most popular cars to buy in the UK
If you’ve been wondering what other people buy you might have taken a look at the current cars for salein order to gauge which cars are most popular. Luckily, the SMMT – the UK Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders – keeps a monthly record of new car registrations, so it’s easy to find this out. These are the top 10 bestselling cars so far in 2022.
The top 10 most popular cars in the UK
10. Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The A-Class brings a whole load of Mercedes-Benz style and desirability to the ever-popular family hatchback sector, and with excellent monthly finance deals often available, no wonder it regularly appears in the UK top 10 bestselling cars list – something its main rivals the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3 typically fail to do.
9. Ford Kuga
There was a time when Ford hatchbacks dominated this top 10. Nowadays, Ford SUVs are more popular, with the mid-size Kuga the first of two in this list. The Kuga offers plenty of space, a range of different powertrain options – including a plug-in hybrid – and manages to be both comfortable and good fun to drive.
8. Vauxhall Mokka
The latest generation Vauxhall Mokka has really moved the game on from its rather dowdy and unimpressive predecessors. Eye-catching styling on the outside gives way to an interior that’s got loads of the latest technology. And you can choose efficient petrol or diesel engines, or opt for the all-electric Mokka-e.
7. Kia Niro
The Niro is a spacious and practical family SUV that – being a Kia – comes with a seven-year warranty. It’s excellent value, quiet and smooth to drive, and is available with a choice of power options to suit every kind of buyer: hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full electric. The latter is called the e-Niro, and we’d seriously consider it.
6. Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai is really on a roll at the moment – all its latest models are not only good to drive but also great to look at. The Tucson SUV is no exception, featuring an outstandingly distinctive front grille and lighting signature that’s unlikely to be mistaken for anything else on the road. There are no diesel engines but every possible hybrid option is available.
5. MINI hatch
The MINI hatchback has been enormously popular since it was resurrected by parent firm BMW two decades ago. Fun to look at, fun to be in and really fun to drive, the personalisation options are legendary, and the ownership experience packed with fun. Just don’t expect to get big people in the back seats very often.
4. Kia Sportage
The second Kia in this list is the larger – and newer – Sportage SUV. Still with a seven-year warranty, still great value, this moves the game on for Kia with ultra-modern styling, a smart, spacious interior and an infotainment system that’s actually nice to use. It offers a variety of hybrid powertrains and the option of four-wheel drive, too.
3. Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan Qashqai is the archetypal family SUV – having pretty much invented the so-called crossover segment when it was originally launched. The very latest model, new in 2021, takes that heritage and brings it right up to date, with a roomier cabin, better on-board tech and newer engines. Still a great choice.
2. Ford Puma
The Puma is the SUV equivalent of the Ford Fiesta hatchback – a car that used to dominate this top 10 bestsellers list. So it’s probably no surprise the Puma has taken up that mantle, seeing as it combines all the Fiesta’s fun and friendliness with the added practicality and popularity of an SUV design. A really good little car.
1. Vauxhall Corsa
Long-time second fiddle to the Ford Fiesta, it seems the now is the Vauxhall Corsa’s time to shine as the most popular car in the UK. The latest model has taken everything to the max, with a better design, better engines, more space and the option a 100% electric power in the form of the Corsa-e. Great availability means plenty of choice, and pricing is keen as well.
