January’s best-selling cars have been revealed with SUVs still in favour over saloons and estates.
The first month of 2025 has seen a drop of 2.5 per cent in the new car market, with electric vehicles now taking a 21.3 per cent market share, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Petrol-powered vehicles still are the most popular choice among buyers, with a recorded 70,075 registrations in January.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best-selling cars for January.
Kia Sportage – 3,476
It’s available with a choice of petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains and comes packed full of standard equipment. It looks good, has great build quality and features lots of interior space – ideal for a young family.
On the road, it handles well, and whichever model you choose, it will be economical and cheap to run.
All Kia Sportages come with the firm’s seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty for that added peace of mind.
Nissan Qashqai – 3,421
The Qashqai has recently had a midlife makeover to keep it looking fresh. It includes a new front-end design and brings an updated infotainment screen.
It’s available with a choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains, while all versions are cheap to run and come with lots of interior space.
Vauxhall Corsa – 3,379
Under the bonnet, there is a choice of petrol, hybrid and electric drivetrains, while all versions come with ultra-low running costs.
It may not be the most exciting car to look at or to drive, but the Corsa represents decent value for money, and a recent facelift has made it look a little bit sharper, too.
Volkswagen Golf – 2,614
Last year, the car received an update which included revised styling and the return of physical steering wheel buttons – improving its ergonomics.
It’s good to drive, comes with lots of interior space, and is a safe and sensible choice.
There is the option of hatchback and estate variants, as well as the choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
Peugeot 3008 – 2,567
It’s available with a choice of hybrid and electric drivetrains to make it as efficient as possible.
To drive, the 3008 focuses more on comfort rather than engagement, but that shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
All models come with plenty of standard equipment with a choice of two trim levels, to keep things simple.
Peugeot 2008 – 2,478
Available with a choice of petrol, hybrid and electric power, there should be a 2008 to suit everyone.
It comes in a great range of colour schemes as well as having daring looks and a smart and minimalist interior design.
Ford Puma – 2,332
For the driving enthusiasts, there is a hot ‘ST’ variant, which features a body kit, sports seats and more power.
Ownership should be stress-free with lots of Ford dealers to take care of the car, and running costs are low, thanks to its efficient engines.
Nissan Juke – 2,320
The Juke features oddball styling, a smart interior design and lots of daring colour schemes to make each one stand out from the crowd.
A choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains are available, to help keep those running costs affordable.
MG HS – 2,148
The Chinese firm has gone upmarket with its largest SUV with a plush feeling interior and smart exterior styling.
A choice of petrol and plug-in hybrid power is available – with the latter having a claimed 75 miles on electric power alone.
Later this year, MG will add a regular hybrid variant to the mix of powertrains, too.
MG ZS – 2,107
The latest model was revealed last year as a hybrid only – but the outgoing model can still be purchased as an EV.
The ZS is packed full of standard equipment and is practical, offering decent rear passenger space and a capacious boot capacity.
