If you’ve been looking at used cars for sale, you’ve probably noticed that there are far more examples of some cars in the classifieds that there are others. It doesn’t take a genius to work out that this is because more new cars of that type were sold. So what if you’re planning ahead – and thinking about buying a secondhand car in a few months’ or even years’ time? Then it might pay to know which new cars are most popular right now.
We’re here to help. Thanks to figures published every month by the SMMT – the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders – we know exactly which cars are the current UK bestsellers. Below you’ll find the top 10 for 2022 so far.
10. Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a family car with a seriously premium image. The sharp exterior design is complemented by a tech-laden interior, while a decent amount of passenger room and boot space make it a good all-round choice. It easily outsells its main rivals, the BMW 1 Series and the Audi A3, and is often available via tempting finance deals.
9. Ford Kuga
The Kuga is Ford’s take on the family-sized SUV, and it’s a belter. Good to drive, with crisp handling, it also comes in lots of different trim levels and offers plug-in hybrid power if you want to maximise fuel economy and minimise your emissions. Ford has a massive dealer network, too, so you’ll never be far from somewhere that can look after it.
8. Vauxhall Mokka
The previous versions of the Vauxhall Mokka were also a bit poorly received by the motoring press, even if they sold well – but this latest model is a bit of a standout star at the smaller end of the SUV segment. Those attention-grabbing looks are combined with plenty of tech, and the engine range is crowned by the impressive all-electric Mokka-e.
7. Kia Niro
Rivalling the Mokka for value, however, is the Kia Niro. Another smaller SUV, this one comes with a seven-year warranty – just one of the reasons we’d consider it excellent value. It too is available as a 100% electric model, the e-Niro, as well as a range of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Expect a quiet, refined and smooth drive, whichever you choose.
6. Hyundai Tucson
Spotting a trend yet? This is yet another SUV in the top 10 bestsellers list, and though it’s not top of the pile for sales, the Hyundai Tucson could well be in with a chance of taking hope the style prize. That front end is enormously distinctive, and the Tucson is nice inside as well. Hyundai doesn’t offer a diesel engine, but every type of hybrid is available.
5. MINI hatch
If it’s fun you’re after this could be your stop. The MINI hatchback is tremendously entertaining to drive and is offered with a huge range or personalisation options, allowing new buyers to create a car that’s absolutely their own. Practicality is a bit limited, especially if you want to carry people in the back, but the MINI should otherwise prove a joy to own.
4. Kia Sportage
A slightly larger – and newer – SUV from Kia, this one. The latest Sportage is smart to look at, spacious inside, and even features a modern infotainment system that’s easy to use (not something you can say about every rival). You can have a 4×4 version, and there are lots of hybrid options – plus that all important seven year warranty is standard, too.
3. Nissan Qashqai
This is the latest version of the car that helped make the family SUV the amazing sales success that it is today. The current Nissan Qashqai is roomier than ever inside, comes with loads of technology and offers a choice of ultra-modern powertrains. This is the one that every other crossover SUV should be measured against – and definitely deserves a test drive.
2. Ford Puma
The Ford Fiesta used to dominate the UK bestsellers list – now the major Blue Oval challenger is, you guessed it, yet another SUV. The Puma is rightly described as a Fiesta on stilts, meaning it’s compact, offers a clever blend of value and delightful features, and is also far more fun to drive than it really needs to be. We’d be taking a closer look at one for sure.
1. Vauxhall Corsa
For years the Vauxhall Corsa was always the runner-up – behind the Ford Fiesta. But with that rival suffering at the hands of the Puma’s success, now the Corsa is leading the pack as the most popular new car in the UK. The latest model looks good, drives well enough, has lots of technology and covers all the engine bases, right up to the all-electric Corsa-e.
