The top 10 most popular cars in the UK

The top 10 most popular cars in the UK
The UK’s new car market expanded for a second straight month in June, with registrations rising by 6.7% to 191,316 units, according to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

This marked the strongest June since 2019 and pushed first-half performance 3.5% higher than the same period last year. However, the market is still 17.9% below pre-pandemic levels. Despite June’s improvement, it remained 14.4% down compared to June 2019.

Petrol vehicle registrations declined by 4.2%, while diesel remained nearly unchanged with a modest 0.2% increase. Combined, petrol and diesel vehicles now account for just over half of the market at 51.6%. Electrified vehicles, meanwhile, achieved a 48.5% market share, with 92,571 total registrations.

Battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations saw a strong surge, rising 39.1% to 47,354 units and representing 24.8% of the market. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) also performed well, growing 28.8% to 21,382 units. In contrast, hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) registrations fell by 8.5% to 23,835 units.

For the first half of 2025, BEV registrations have increased by 34.6% to 224,841 units. However, their market share stands at 21.6%, still well below the UK government’s 28% target for the year.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said: "A second consecutive month of growth for the new car market is good news, as is the positive performance of EVs. That EV growth, however, is still being driven by substantial industry support with manufacturers using every channel and unsustainable discounting to drive activity, yet it remains below mandated levels.

"As we have seen in other countries, government incentives can supercharge the market transition, without which the climate change ambitions we all share will be under threat."

Most new registration June 2025

Make and modelNumber of registrations
Nissan Qashqai5,008
Ford Puma4,419
Tesla Model Y4,181
Vauxhall Corsa3,583
MG HS3,567
Tesla Model 33,538
Kia Sportage3,376
Volkswagen T-Roc3,295
Nissan Juke3,278
Peugeot 20083,212

2025 year-to-date new registrations

Make and modelNumber of registrations
Ford Puma26,355
Kia Sportage23,012
Nissan Qashqai22,085
Vauxhall Corsa20,128
Nissan Juke18,527
Volkswagen Golf16,884
MG ZS16,115
Hyundai Tucson15,496
Volvo XC4015,267
Volkswagen Tiguan15,223

Top 10 best-selling cars in the UK 2025

Ford Puma

ford puma

Ford's popular small SUV, the Puma, is easy to drive, comfortable and practical with a large boot. The Puma is also cheap to run thanks to petrol hybrid technology that keeps fuel costs down. Little wonder, perhaps, it's so popular with car buyers in Britian.

Read our full Ford Puma review.

Kia Sportage

kia sportage

Easy to drive, stylish and backed by a seven-year-warranty, the Kia Sportage is a serious player in the family SUV market. All versions are spacious and comfortable, while Kia’s impressive range of petrol hybrid powertrains make the Sportage rewarding to drive and affordable to run.

Read our full Kia Sportage review.

Nissan Qashqai

nissan qashqai

Popular with family car buyers, the Nissan Qashqai is one of the UK's favourite SUVs. Now in its third generation, the Qashqai is better than ever before. The interior is spacious, and the high levels of refinement make the Qashqai perfect for high mileage drivers who want a class leading family car at a price they can afford.

Read our full Nissan Qashqai review.

Volkswagen Golf

golf gti

The Volkswagen Golf is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and remains one of Britain's most popular cars for people of all ages.

Read our full Volkswagen Golf review.

Nissan Juke

nissan juke

The original small supermini-derived SUV, the Nissan Juke is a worthy rival to the Ford Puma thanks to its eye-catching style and driver-friendly cabin. Most buyers choose their Juke with Nissan’s excellent 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine, while the 1.6-litre hybrid is popular with drivers who want their Juke with a dose of performance.

Read our full Nissan Juke review.

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Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa is a popular compact car known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It offers a comfortable driving experience, modern features, and a range of engine options. Available in various trims, the Corsa is ideal for city driving and appeals to both first-time car buyers and seasoned drivers.

Read our full Vauxhall Corsa review

Peugeot 3008

The Peugeot 3008 is a stylish and versatile compact SUV, blending advanced technology, comfort, and strong performance. Known for its sleek design and spacious interior, it offers a smooth driving experience with efficient engines. Features include a modern infotainment system, advanced safety, and a choice of hybrid or petrol options.

Read our full Peugeot 3008 review

Peugeot 2008

The Peugeot 2008 is a compact crossover offering a blend of style, practicality, and efficiency. With its modern design, spacious interior, and advanced technology, it's an ideal choice for urban driving. Available with petrol, diesel, or electric powertrains, the 2008 delivers a comfortable ride and impressive fuel economy.

Read our full Peugeot 2008 review

Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper is a compact, iconic hatchback known for its distinctive design and agile handling. Offering a fun and spirited driving experience, it combines retro charm with modern technology. Available in various trims, the Mini Cooper excels in urban driving, with efficient engines and a customisable, stylish interior.

Read our full Mini Cooper review

Volkswagen Tiguan

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a stylish and practical compact SUV, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. With a spacious interior, efficient engine options, and a smooth ride, it’s ideal for both city and long-distance driving. Features include modern infotainment, safety systems, and strong build quality.

Read our full Volkswagen Tiguan review

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