What's hot and what's not? The SMMT's new car registrations data reveals all, so we've been studying the most recent figures to find out which are Britain's best-selling new cars.
The latest numbers have shown which cars have drawn the biggest sales since the start of 2021, with some retaining a market stronghold against the odds while others fight their way onto the best-sellers list for the first time.
Best-selling cars 2021
1. Vauxhall Corsa - 24,399
The perennial runner-up to the Ford Fiesta in the supermini class once again finds itself in the overall top spot, confirming its position as Vauxhall's best-selling model in Britain – still technically its home market. All-new PSA-developed underpinnings are sure to keep the nameplate in the top 10 best-sellers list, with the new pure-electric version bolstering its popularity.
2. Ford Fiesta - 21,511
It's hardly a surprise to see Ford's supermini hang around near the top of the chart. It has been the UK's best-selling new car every year since 2009, but what is surprising is that demand for it hasn't slipped more significantly following a radical line-up reshuffle in 2019 that brought its entry-level price up by nearly £2000. Clearly, the Fiesta's ability to blend efficiency with dynamism and charm is still a winning formula for a large portion of UK buyers.
3. Volkswagen Golf - 19,608
The Golf's comeback continues, as it edges its way back up towards the top of the sales charts. The eighth-generation car represents a more radical departure from its predecessor than any iteration since the fifth, and the evolution is welcome indeed. Improved dynamics and a radically overhauled interior are the headline changes, but economy and usability enhancements sweeten the deal.
4. Mercedes-Benz A-Class - 19,498
A surprisingly premium entry here from Mercedes, but one that makes a lot of sense when you consider the sheer variety of drivers the A-Class would suit. With petrol, diesel and now plug-in hybrid options on the roster – as well as an overwhelming array of specifications and trim levels to choose from – the A-Class has become a real people pleaser. The new plug-in hybrid A250e variant - with its 42-mile electric range and super-low tax rates for fleet buyers - is sure to be a strong seller, too.
5. Ford Puma - 18,232
Well, what do you know? It turns out building a car for one of the UK's most popular segments with the underpinnings of the country's single most popular model was a shrewd idea. The Puma has been on sale for little more than a year but is already proving a smash hit with buyers, likely as a result of its attractive pricing and surprisingly keen dynamics. The ranks have swollen recently with the addition of automatic, plush Vignale trim and warm-blooded ST versions, too.
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How can you possibly give the Golf in 8th position such praise with your comments?!! Its not selling because its an ugly and less ergonomic car to what went before it! We see few on the roads and it's obvious why regardless of the false praise you give it!
Or maybe people who previously owned a Golf are attracted to the T-Roc or ID.3, both of which weren't available just a few years ago.
Two older model Kias and no equivalent Hyundais - are Kia UK shifting unsold stock?
I doubt it. Why would anyone buy a Hyundai over a Kia? Hyundai's tend to cost more than equivalent Kia's and come with a 2 year shorter warranty. The new Tucson is about £5000 more expensive than the Sportage!
All the noise about electric cars and not one in the top ten.
Maybe IC cars have a bit of life left yet.