What’s Britain’s favourite car? Well, the results are in, and there are some obvious and some less-obvious models people favoured over the past year.
Evaluating data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), new car registrations show a variety of brands in the top spots, with firm favourites still making an appearance.
Electric cars also feature high up on the list, and it’s not surprising as BEVs made up the second most registered cars on UK roads last year. Despite some setbacks in the industry over the past few years, growth is steady, with further expected in 2023.
So, let’s take a look at the best sellers below:
Nissan Qashqai
Quite a bit ahead of the competition, with 42,704 new registrations registered in 2022, was the Nissan Qashqai. It’s hardly surprising this made it to the top ten, as its mid-size yet crossover styling makes it the ideal family car. The inside is spacious, and the exterior provides a sleek look. Its most recent upgrades have enhanced the driveability and cabin space. Plus, the infotainment system and onboard tech are simple to use and packed with plenty of features.
Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa always pops into the top ten, and it’s not hard to see why. Last year, new car registrations came in at 35,910 after starting the first half of the year in first place. The latest Corsa is certainly favoured among drivers for its compact feel yet reasonably spacious interior. The pricing also helps, as it’s affordable with plenty of tech for the price you pay.
Tesla Model Y
The first all-electric entry into the best sellers list is the Tesla Model Y. Registrations came in just under the Corsa at 35,551, which was helped by a boost in numbers in December. The Model Y sticks to Tesla’s minimalist design but has crossover styling, and let’s face it, UK drivers love an SUV. But, again, it’s a more affordable option compared to others in the market, so this could be another reason for its appeal.
Ford Puma
With news that the Ford Fiesta was soon to be no more, its bigger sister the Puma made its way up the ranks for registrations instead. Coming in at 35,088, this model has proved a big hit in 2022, partly because it offers more room and driveability than Ford’s other models. In addition, for its size and design, prices are affordable, giving you more car for your money.
Mini
The Mini is a British icon, so it’s no surprise that it features in the top ten best sellers lists repeatedly. While it slightly slipped down the ranks at 32,387 new registrations last year – it’s still a firm favourite for road appeal, a comfortable ride and affordability.
Kia Sportage
Kia has risen in popularity over the past few years, and the Sportage is up there with the best-selling models. SUVs are proving a top choice for all drivers, whether you’re popping to the shops or munching the motorway miles. So, this mid-size model is an ideal addition to the family. All-in-all, the Sportage is great value for money, has tons of onboard tech and has a sleek design – what’s not to love!
Hyundai Tucson
Following on with the SUV love, the Hyundai Tucson proved that the UK’s need for a practical and roomy crossover is always a top priority. Like others in its class, it’s made for comfort, space and improved driveability, all while keeping running costs economical and purchase prices affordable.
Volkswagen Golf
The Golf is another model that UK drivers admire. This car is in its eighth generation and continues to impress with updated styling and sophisticated tech. At the same time, it’s a little more expensive compared to rivals such as the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Still, the brand name and upgraded tweaks certainly make up for the extra pennies.
Ford Kuga
Ford has another model in the top ten, this time in the form of the Puma’s bigger sister, the Kuga. Of course, the crossover styling and compact SUV size prove a hit time and time again. But this model also comes with fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrains to help keep running costs down.
Ford Fiesta
Previously commanding the top spot in the bestseller lists – the Ford Fiesta has fallen from grace somewhat over the past year. Supply issues have made up most of the problems with sales figures. Now Ford has announced its discontinuation of this model in June 2023, it’s set to dwindle out next year. That said, it still made the top ten this year and remained a favourite alongside its rivals, the Corsa and Golf. And of course, there will be many that will be sad to see it go.
Best-selling electric cars in 2022
As mentioned before, electric cars were the second most registered cars on UK roads last year. However, as the market gets stronger and introduces more models, hitting the top spot might be closer for EVs than first thought.
The Tesla Model Y joined the ranks of the best-selling cars in 2022, while others weren’t far behind.
So, check out the top ten battery electric vehicles for last year and see where your favourites are placed:
- Tesla Model Y
- Tesla Model 3
- Kia e-Niro
- Volkswagen ID.3
- Nissan Leaf
- Mini Electric
- Polestar 2
- MG 5
- BMW i4
- Audi Q4 e-tron
As you can see from the list, there’s a mix of compact EVs to luxury SUVs. So brands have the scope to entice all drivers to make the switch. What’s more, with affordable leasing deals available, choosing a new EV has never been easier.
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