It’s no understatement to say that 2021 was quite a turbulent year for the automotive industry, with a mixture of lockdowns and parts shortages really damaging the market.
But things look more positive for 2022, as new car sales climbed by 27.5 per cent in January to 115,087 new cars being registered. Demand for EVs also continues to grow, with these models accounting for 14,433 models sold – a sharp 130.6 per cent increase on January 2021.
But what were the new cars that proved to be the most popular? Let’s take a look.
1. Kia Sportage, 3,458 registered
Kia had a superb start to the year, and for the first time ever, it was the UK’s most popular car brand. Up there at the top and by quite the margin, is the Sportage – the brand’s mid-size family SUV.
The model was no doubt helped by Kia shifting stock of the outgoing car, along with the introduction of a next-generation model, which brings electrified powertrains, a striking design and tech-laden interior.
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Ford had a somewhat disappointing year in 2021 when it came to car sales, with its production heavily impacted by the shortage of semiconductors. But it looks like things might be returning to normal, with the brand’s Puma being the second most popular in January.
Bringing a sporty driving experience to the crossover segment, the Puma is also well-equipped and gets some efficient mild-hybrid petrol engines. Those wanting something racier can also select the Puma ST.
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Kia’s Niro is well-versed to satisfy the growing number of new car buyers considering something electrified, with this crossover only sold as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV. It’s the latter that really impresses, not least because of its electric range of up to 282 miles.
The Niro is also very well-equipped and comes with a practical interior that makes it well-suited to family duties. You also get the brand’s excellent seven-year warranty, which even transfers between owners.
Enquire on a new Kia Niro4. Mini, 2,313 registered
The Oxford-built Mini continues to prove as popular as ever, and was the best-selling small car in January. Its combination of style, quality and its fun driving experience remains unmatched in this segment, and it’s easy to see the appeal.
The choice of sporty Cooper S and John Cooper Works models also satisfies those looking for a fun hot hatch, while the Electric model is increasingly accounting for a large chunk of the Mini’s sales too.
Enquire on a new Mini5. Vauxhall Corsa, 2,285 registered
Though the Corsa might have been the UK’s best-selling car in all of 2021, it begins the year in fifth place – still something that should be celebrated. Its combination of affordability and style continues to earn it many new fans, along with appealing to the many existing Vauxhall owners.
The Corsa is available with a good range of petrol and diesel engines, while many buyers are also choosing the electric Corsa-e, which is able to travel for up to 209 miles on a single charge.
Enquire on a new Vauxhall Corsa6. Hyundai Tucson, 2,236 registered
Hyundai’s Tucson was one of our favourite cars tested in 2021, and this family SUV is clearly striking a chord with buyers – as it outsold traditionally popular models like the Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan in this class.
Bringing a bold design, the Tucson offers an upmarket and techy interior, along with plenty of space for all the family. It’s also available with a broad range of powertrains, with the hybrid and plug-in hybrid being particularly appealing.
Enquire on a new Hyundai Tucson7. Vauxhall Mokka, 2,194 registered
Vauxhall introduced next-generation Mokka crossover last year and it really seems to be finding its feet now, and is a regular entrant into the top 10. Based on the same underpinnings as the Corsa, it’s roomier and brings a chunkier look.
It’s a very eye-catching model too, and shows Vauxhall’s latest design direction inside and out. Like the Corsa, a wide range of powertrains are available, including the electric Mokka-e that promises up to 209 miles between charges.
Enquire on a new Vauxhall Mokka8. Ford Focus, 1,822 registered
The Ford Focus makes a welcome return to the top 10, with this model proving to be the best-selling family hatchback in January. Bringing a stylish design, fun driving experience and practicality, it ticks plenty of boxes in the family crossover segment.
Ford is also soon launching a heavily revised model, which brings a more striking design and class-leading levels of technology.
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With both the Golf and Polo absent from the top 10 list in January, it was the T-Roc that was Volkswagen’s best-selling car. This funky high-riding SUV offers plenty of standard equipment, style and practicality for buyers, while there’s even a sporty T-Roc R model available.
It’s another car that will soon be getting refreshed, with a sharper, more high-quality facelifted version due in showrooms imminently.
Enquire on a new Volkswagen T-Roc10. Toyota Corolla, 1,767 registered
Rounding off the top 10 list is another UK-built model – the Toyota Corolla. Available in hatchback, saloon and estate guises, this model really impresses with its efficient hybrid powertrains and generous equipment levels.
It’s very comfortable and easy to drive too, while a huge range of trim levels and looks means there’s plenty to choose from – the sporty-looking GR Sport and rugged Trek models standing out as two of the most interesting.
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