Top Selling Cars In The UK 2022

The Nissan Qashqai tops the Vauxhall Corsa as the UK’s best-selling car

The year 2022 is already over, and although it seemed short and sweet – here in the UK we have been through a lot!  Through petrol shortages and potential fuel restrictions, and a heavy push towards sustainability, the rise in electric vehicles became more noticeable than ever and we have really seen the automotive industry reshaping – but which cars were sold the most?  Let’s take a look at the official UK best sellers of 2022.

1.Nissan Qashqai

Despite a tough year for the automotive industry, marked by parts shortages and production issues with semiconductors, the Nissan Qashqai managed to come out on top as the best-selling car in the UK for 2022 with 42,704 units sold. This popular SUV, which is built at Nissan’s Sunderland factory in the UK, saw strong sales in the latter part of the year and secured the top spot, beating out the reigning champion, the Vauxhall Corsa. The Corsa dropped down to second place, while the Tesla Model Y took third place and became the UK’s best-selling electric vehicle. The Ford Puma and Mini rounded out the top five, completing the top ten list for the year.

2. Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa has done it again! For three years straight, it’s been the UK’s top-selling car, and this year it’s coming in at a strong second place, with 35,910 units sold. The Corsa’s secret to success? A solid build thanks to its PSA technology and the option to choose between petrol, diesel, and electric power. It’s been holding onto first place like a champ, and there’s no sign of it slowing down anytime soon.

3. Tesla Model Y

Around 10,000 Model Ys sailed into the UK in December, and  35,551 cars sold in total; securing its spot as the top-selling electric car in the country and coming in at a strong third place overall. And it’s only been on the market since February 2022! Looks like the Model Y is here to stay, with a rear-wheel-drive version now available as the new entry point to the range. Get ready to see even more of these on the road in 2023!

4. Ford Puma

The Ford Puma had another successful year, coming in at a solid fourth place. Thanks to its smooth handling, practical size and budget-friendly price tag; it’s become a popular option for those looking for family cars.  Variations such as those with an additional Vignale trim and the sporty ST version offered that little bit of edge to those looking for sleek style.

5. Mini 3dr/5dr

Even though it’s been around for a while, the Mini hatchback is still a fan favourite.  It ended 2021 in an impressive third place, beating out competitors like the Volkswagen Polo and Toyota Yaris. This year, it’s holding strong at fifth place with 32,387 units sold, thanks to its diverse range of petrol, electric, convertible, and John Cooper Works options. Plus, it’s always a blast to drive and has an iconic look. And the best part? A shiny new Mini is set to arrive on the scene this year!

6. Kia Sportage

The new and improved fifth-generation SUV may have dropped to sixth place at the end of the year, but it’s still a total hit with drivers. Its sleek design, trendy powertrains, and excellent value for money make it a top choice.  A total of 29,655 units were sold in 2022.

7.  Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson continues to be a top contender in the world of SUVs! It’s the fourth SUV in the top 10 and has regularly made appearances in the top 10 in previous years. And it’s ending 2022 in a solid seventh place. This year it got a fresh new look with a unique lighting setup, making it even more irresistible to buyers.

8.  Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is still going strong! Now in its eighth generation, it’s still one of the top-selling cars in the UK. This year, Volkswagen sold a whopping 26,558 of them! The Golf’s latest lineup includes pure ICE, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, and it’s got performance models ranging from the sporty Golf GTE to the powerful four-wheel drive Golf R, so an excellent range of choice for all types of drivers.

9.  Ford Kuga

Looks like the Kuga crossover is giving the trusty Fiesta a run for its money! This year, the Kuga is Ford’s second entry in the top 10 with 26,549 cars sold, taking over from the Fiesta. The Kuga is a formidable competitor in the crowded crossover segment, alongside the likes of the Qashqai, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Peugeot 3008. It received a makeover in 2020, with a sleek new design, a roomier interior, and fuel-efficient plug-in powertrains.

10. Ford Fiesta

Sad news, everyone – after selling 25,070 units this year, this is the last time we’ll ever see the beloved Ford Fiesta on the UK’s top ten best sellers list. The iconic supermini will be retiring next year after 47 years of production. It will be replaced by a flashy new electric crossover, which will be going up against the super-popular Puma and Kuga. We’ll always remember the Fiesta for its versatility and top-notch driving dynamics, especially the unstoppable performance ST variant. We’ll miss you, Fiesta.