As we step closer to the tail end of 2025, one car has stood head and shoulders above the rest.
In terms of sales numbers, the Ford Puma still reigns supreme as the most popular car in the UK. Should it maintain this position until the end of 2025, it will mark its second consecutive year as the top model in the UK.
Despite a strong year for the Puma, the broader new car market is experiencing fluctuations, and the industry continues to face unprecedented challenges.
In August, 82,908 new cars were registered, representing a drop of 2% year on year. That said, electric car sales continued to rise, growing by 14.9% year on year, up to 21,969.
That number is expected to grow further in the coming months, as the government’s newly revised EV grant begins to impact more cars, with savings of up to £3750 on some models.
But which cars are currently the most popular in the UK, and can any of them get close to Ford's crossover? For the definitive list of the top 10 best-selling cars of the year to date, based on SMMT data, read on…
The most popular new cars of 2025
1. Ford Puma – 33,221 units
The best-selling car of 2024 has been so popular again this year that it's been glued to the top spot since February.
The Puma appeals because it's engaging to drive and attractively priced, plus it offers the option of a hot Puma ST variant.
The arrival of the electric Ford Puma Gen-E should give it an additional boost, although sales will be counted separately for that model.
Read our Ford Puma review
2. Kia Sportage – 29,279 units
The Kia Sportage finished fourth in the 2024 sales charts, and we suspect the people of Seoul will be thrilled to see the SUV consistently cling to second place through most of the year.
Consistency is the key to this family SUV. It entered its fifth generation at the tail end of 2022 and still looks fresh, eye-catching and modern.
Its mild-hybrid, full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains ensure a great variety for buyers, too.
Read our Kia Sportage review
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So the Hyundai Tucson is "arguably the most premium option on the list".
Volkswagen might have something to say about that ....
And again: sorry to be pedantic, but early August is only seven months into the year, not eight.
On a more serious note, disappointing that eight of the 10 top sellers are SUVs with just the Corsa and Golf representing what were once normal cars.
Define SUV. In my book a Puma is THB, there's not even a 4wd version.
I recently test drove a Puma for a day.
I cannot understand why people buy this awful car:
Weird steering wheel, horrible touchscreen, cramped pedal bay, crashing, lumpy ride, poor visibility, squashed back seats, naff scratchy plastics.
Looks like I may be buying an Octavia instead.
Not sure if the Puma is up against the much larger Octavia, do you mean the Fabia or Scala.