Best selling cars
The cars in this list are currently the most popular models on sale in the UK year-to-date – and for good reason. They mix great value with superior levels of quality and low running costs. Decent practicality is also key for new car buyers, with many of the cars in this list offering spacious interiors and big boots.
We’ve compiled the top 10 using the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), and include all the different bodystyles available for each model. This means that the Vauxhall Astra at fourth place includes both the hatchback and estate versions, while the top-selling Ford Fiesta stands proud as a single product.
So if you want a car that is trusted by thousands up and down the country, be sure to check out these best sellers.
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1
Ford Fiesta hatchback
£9,995 - £17,545
The Ford Fiesta has been the best selling car in the UK since its first full year on sale in 2009. The accomplished supermini gets a set of head-turning looks with economical engines and rock-bottom running costs. What’s more, it’s great fun to drive on a twisty road yet quiet and comfortable on longer journeys. It was subject to a mild facelift towards the end of 2012, giving it a new Aston Martin-influenced face and fresh appeal.
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2
Ford Focus hatchback
£13,995 - £24,900
The superb Ford Focus is another car that has featured consistently in this list since its launch in 2011. It actually topped the list in December 2012, selling over 5,000 units – nudging the smaller Fiesta into third place. The Focus is just as fun to drive as its sibling, yet offers space and practicality to rival far more expensive competition. Standard equipment is impressive and safety technology is among the best in class.
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3
Vauxhall Corsa hatchback
£9,495 - £18,080
Vauxhall’s rival to the Ford Fiesta supermini is the Corsa. Particularly popular with young drivers, the Corsa gets similarly low running costs, a spacious interior and high levels of comfort. It’s not as good to drive as the Fiesta, but hefty dealer discounts make it a sound buy whatever your budget.
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4
Vauxhall Astra hatchback
£12,995 - £25,175
When the Vauxhall Astra was given a stylish facelift in 2009, it finally looked like a worthy rival to the huge-selling Ford Focus. Interior quality is much improved, and cabin comfort is superb for long-distance cruising. It still falls short of the Focus in terms of driver enjoyment, but represents undisputed value for money. What’s more, if you go for one of the frugal ecoFLEX engines, you’ll benefit from rock-bottom running costs, too.
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5
Volkswagen Golf hatchback
£16,495 - £24,375
The Volkswagen Golf has long been the benchmark class leader for well-rounded family hatchbacks, and it’s easy to see why. Quality is second-to-none and the efficient engines means it won’t cost a fortune to run either. Granted, it’s not much of a departure from the previous generation Golf, but if you can get past the sober looks, as the saying goes: it could well be all the car you’ll ever need.
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6
Nissan QASHQAI hatchback
£17,895 - £27,650
The highest placed crossover in the top 10, is the Nissan Qashqai. It blends a high-quality interior, great reliability and a good choice of engines, all within a practical package built in Britain. It’s comfortable to drive and the extra ride height makes it feel secure and sure-footed. Available in two and four-wheel-drive, there’s a Qashqai to suit everyone.
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7
Volkswagen Polo hatchback
£11,525 - £19,365
Baby brother to the Golf, the VW Polo transfers all the best bits of its larger sibling, into a neat supermini package. It’s renowned for its solid build quality and spacious interior, while running costs can be kept down by opting for one of the efficient BlueMotion models. There’s even a range-topping GTI hot hatch if driving thrills are high on your wish list.
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8
Peugeot 208 hatchback
£11,045 - £18,895
The replacement for the ageing Peugeot 207, the 208, has rocketed straight into the top 10 within only a few months of being on sale. Its stylish looks, economical engines and decent standard equipment have ensured its place in the chart, with all cars get LED daytime running lights, electric front windows and six airbags.
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9
Mercedes C-Class saloon
£26,270 - £66,960
The upmarket Mercedes C-Class has recently toppled the hugely popular BMW 3 Series in the sales charts, to claim its place in the top 10. It has a premium feel and the interior really is a joy to behold. A recently updated exterior has kept it close to the top of its game, while tax-friendly diesel engines mean it’s very popular with company car drivers.
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10
Nissan Juke SUV
£13,395 - £20,495
The Juke is Nissan’s second model in the current top 10 and is hot on the heels of its bigger brother, the Qashqai. Its funky looks and raised driving position have proved popular, while the wide range of specifications and engine choices mean there is a Juke to suit all budgets. List prices are low and it’s available with two and four-wheel drive – making it particularly versatile family transport.
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