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2025 was a strong year for the UK new-car market, with registrations pushing past the two-million mark for the first time since before the pandemic.
According to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), a total of 2,020,520 new cars were registered last year, supported by improved supply, renewed consumer confidence and growing interest in electrified vehicles.
Electric cars continued to gain momentum throughout the year, while hybrids and plug-in hybrids also saw steady growth. At the same time, demand for traditional petrol and diesel models continued to fall, reflecting the ongoing shift in buyer preferences.
New car registrations by fuel type (2025)
Petrol: 39.4%
Electric: 32.2%
Hybrid: 12.6%
Plug-in hybrid: 11.6%
Diesel: 4.2%
10. Hyundai Tucson – 28,613 sold
Sneaking into the top ten is the Hyundai Tucson, an SUV that has steadily grown in popularity thanks to its bold styling and strong hybrid line-up. Its angular design helps it stand out in a crowded segment, while the interior feels modern and well put together.
Practicality is a big part of the Tucson’s appeal. With a boot of up to 620 litres and plenty of rear-seat space, it fits neatly into family life, and Hyundai’s reputation for reliability – backed by a five-year warranty – continues to attract long-term buyers.
9. Volkswagen Tiguan – 29,857 sold
The Volkswagen Tiguan remains one of the most recognisable family SUVs on UK roads, and its consistent sales performance in 2025 reflects that. Offering petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options, it appeals to a broad range of drivers, from private buyers to company car users.
Inside, the Tiguan feels solid and well finished, with a sensible layout and plenty of tech as standard. It’s not the cheapest option in its class, but for many buyers, the Volkswagen badge and everyday usability justify the premium.
8. MG HS – 30,191 sold
The MG HS continues to be one of the standout success stories of the last few years. In 2025, its strong sales were driven largely by the plug-in hybrid version, which proved especially popular with company car drivers thanks to low Benefit-in-Kind rates.
Value is at the heart of the HS’s appeal. You get generous standard equipment, a spacious cabin and a long warranty for a price that undercuts many rivals. While it’s not the most engaging SUV to drive, it delivers exactly what many buyers prioritise: space, efficiency and affordability.
7. Volvo XC40 – 30,404 sold
The Volvo XC40 is one of the older SUVs on this list, yet it continues to perform strongly in the UK sales charts. Its clean, smart design gives it a more professional look than many of its rivals, which has helped it remain popular with both private buyers and company car drivers.
As you’d expect from Volvo, safety is a major part of the XC40’s appeal, with a strong reputation for driver assistance and crash protection. A comfortable ride, high driving position and the availability of hybrid and electric versions have helped keep it relevant in a market that’s becoming increasingly electrified.
6. Volkswagen Golf – 32,478 sold
Few cars have the staying power of the Volkswagen Golf. Decades on from its debut, it remains one of the UK’s most popular choices, proving that there’s still plenty of life left in the traditional family hatchback.
In 2025, buyers continued to be drawn to the Golf’s balance of comfort, quality and efficiency. Whether as a sensible daily driver or a sportier GTI or R variant, it remains a dependable all-rounder that suits a wide range of needs.
5. Nissan Juke – 34,773 sold
Love it or hate it, the Nissan Juke’s bold styling continues to win over buyers. Its distinctive design helps it stand out in the small SUV segment, and that visual appeal has played a big role in its strong 2025 sales performance.
Beyond the looks, the Juke offers a well-equipped cabin, good safety tech and competitive pricing. Rear space isn’t its strongest point, but for urban drivers, its compact size and personality make it an appealing choice.
4. Vauxhall Corsa – 35,947 sold
The Vauxhall Corsa proves that small hatchbacks still have a place in the UK market. In a year dominated by SUVs, it was the best-selling traditional supermini, helped by its broad range of petrol and electric options.
Affordability remains key to the Corsa’s success. It’s relatively cheap to buy and run, easy to drive, and practical enough for everyday use. The electric Corsa has also helped introduce EVs to a wider audience, particularly among first-time and fleet buyers.
3. Nissan Qashqai – 41,141 sold
The Nissan Qashqai continues to set the standard for mid-size family SUVs. One of the original pioneers of the segment, it remains hugely popular thanks to its comfort-focused ride and user-friendly interior.
In 2025, the Qashqai’s hybrid powertrains played a major role in its success, offering improved efficiency without the need to plug in. It’s not the biggest SUV in its class, but for many families, it strikes just the right balance between size, refinement and running costs.
2. Kia Sportage – 47,788 sold
Finishing second overall is the Kia Sportage, which has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s favourite family SUVs. Its sharp design, spacious interior and strong hybrid options helped it maintain impressive momentum throughout 2025.
The Sportage’s seven-year warranty remains a major selling point, offering peace of mind that few rivals can match. Combined with generous standard equipment and good real-world efficiency, it’s easy to see why so many buyers chose it last year.
1. Ford Puma – 55,488 sold
Taking the top spot once again is the Ford Puma, the UK’s best-selling car of 2025 by a comfortable margin. Month after month, it outperformed rivals, cementing its position as Britain’s favourite new car for the third year running.
The Puma’s success comes down to its broad appeal. It’s compact enough for city driving, practical enough for everyday family use, and enjoyable to drive – with a surprisingly large boot for a car of its size.
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