Best-selling cars in the UK of 2024 so far

Ford Puma has extended its lead atop the UK sales rankings. What could stop it being number one this year?

Last year was a positive one for the automotive industry, with the UK experiencing its best year for car sales since the pandemic.

More than 1.9 million new cars were registered – but one stood out among the rest. The Ford Puma was the best-selling car in the UK in 2023, becoming the first Ford to top the charts since the Ford Fiesta’s 12-year run ended in 2020. 

It fought off stiff competition from the Nissan Qashqai, the Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen T-Roc to reach the summit.

A full eight months into the 2024 and the Puma still reigns supreme, topping the list ahead of its rivals - but only just. The Kia Sportage and Qashqai are hot on its heels. 

So, which cars are the top 10 best-sellers in the UK so far? See the year-to-date list below, starting from January 2024 and using data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. 

Best-selling cars in the UK in 2024 1. Ford Puma – 32,263 units

Last year's best-selling car is continuing its success in 2024. The compact crossover still impresses us, and new car buyers, with its fun driving dynamics and attractive pricing, as well as the hot ST variant.

It may not be the Fiesta we all know and love, but it’s a good, capable alternative nonetheless. It even outsold the Ford Transit and Transit Custom vans, which is no mean feat. Recent facelift keeps things fresh with a new grille and infotainment system too.

Read our Ford Puma review

2. Kia Sportage - 30,100 units

The Kia Sportage had a good year in 2023, finishing fourth in the UK sales charts. And it is having an even stronger showing in 2024, hovering close to the very top of the table.

Consistency is key for this family SUV, which entered its fifth generation at the tail end of 2022, sporting an eye-catching design, on-trend powertrains and compelling value for money.

Read our Kia Sportage review

3. Nissan Qashqai – 27,684 units

The Nissan Qashqai was the UK's best-seller, way back in 2022. It then finished 2023 in second place, and it’s looking like it will finish third place for 2024.

The British-built crossover continues to appeal to buyers here with its excellent practicality. Its appeal has also no doubt been bolstered by the addition of electrified powertrains for its third generation. 

Read our Nissan Qashqai review

4. Volkswagen Golf – 23,482 units

The Volkswagen Golf isn’t quite as popular as it once was, but it’s still a top pick for drivers on the hunt for a good all-round family hatchback or estate.

In fact, it's slowly creeping its way back up the charts, now sitting in fourth place. This could be a hugely important time for the Golf, which has just gone on sale in facelifted 'Mk8.5' form. 

The German stalwart has been kept fresh with a wide-reaching technology update, a design revamp, a more powerful GTI and a longer-range plug-in hybrid, so it could climb higher still. 

Read our Volkswagen Golf review 

5. Nissan Juke - 22,702 units

The Nissan Juke remains a popular car among UK buyers, having finished 2023 in eighth place.

The small SUV went on sale with a brand-new design in 2020, then a facelifted version arrived in the middle of last year, along with hybrid power for the first time.

A big sales jump in July continues healthy sales growth: the Juke has moved up four places in two months.

Read our Nissan Juke review

6. Audi A3 - 21,680 units

The Audi A3 is one of only three cars on this list that isn't an SUV, and it was even outselling its Volkswagen Golf sibling earlier this year, just as it did in 2023.

It's certainly worthy of its spot in the top 10, offering a comfortable ride and good body control, plus a plush and roomy interior.

The fact that it's also substantially cheaper than the rival Mercedes-Benz A-Class also helps its case. 

Read our Audi A3 Sportback review

7. Hyundai Tucson - 20,297 units

The Hyundai Tucson is one of the UK’s most popular SUVs, having regularly appeared in the top 10 in 2023.

It was renewed in 2021 with a fresh front end that featured a unique, eye-catching lighting arrangement. Its plush interior and range of electrified powertrains are also attractive propositions for many Brits.

Read our Hyundai Tucson review

8. MG HS - 20,090 units

The MG HS might not win the crown as the UK's best-seller, but it should be considered one of the most improved.  

Available with a petrol engine or as a plug-in hybrid, the Chinese car also comes very well equipped as standard, including dual 12.3in screens, a 360deg parking camera and smartphone mirroring. 

While it's not quite as good to drive as the majority of its rivals, it offers a class-leading electric-only range of up to 75 miles in PHEV form, which bolsters its standing. 

Read our MG HS review

9. Volkswagen T-Roc - 19,542 units

The T-Roc is a sensible choice for drivers on the hunt for a good all-round family car.

Available with a selection of petrol engines, a new version of the T-Roc will arrive soon as Volkswagen's final ICE car before it goes EV-only. 

Read our Volkswagen T-Roc review

10. BMW 1 Series - 19,538 units

The 1 Series has been on sale in its current form since 2019, but it’s still a popular choice for those who want a classy hatchback with a smart interior and frugal powertrains. 

It offers a choice of petrol and diesel engines, with a model range topped by the M-tuned M135i xDrive. 

Read our BMW 1 Series review

Best-selling cars in the UK of 2024 so far

Best-selling cars in the UK of 2024 so far

Best-selling cars in the UK of 2024 so far

Best-selling cars in the UK of 2024 so far

Best-selling cars in the UK of 2024 so far