It doesn’t seem so long ago that the new car market bounced from one month of record registrations to the next. However, as we move through 2019 the seemingly never-ending political uncertainty, increased taxes and a lack of clarity over the future of diesel continue to take their toll.
THE YEAR SO FAR
Reflecting as much, new car registrations in the first month of 2019 dropped by 1.6% compared with January 2018, with appetite for diesel still faltering (demand has been down 20.3% so far this year).
It is not all doom and gloom, however, After all, there were still 161,013 new cars finding homes in the first month of the year, helped by both petrol and alternative fuel vehicles (AFV) recording increases in demand (up 7.3% and 26.3% respectively). In order to improve the situation, and in particular to make up for the fall in diesel registrations, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says that the government must do more to promote sales of AFVs. Specifically, the SMMT highlights the need for greater incentives for plug-in hybrid cars and investment in charging infrastructure as necessary if the government is to move past the ‘lower end’ of its ambitions for these types of cars.
THE UK’S 10 BEST-SELLING NEW CARS
Below we have rounded up the 10 best selling new cars of 2019 so far, according to SMMT data. If you fancy exploring the availability of nearly new and used versions of these cars, click on the links below each to find great deals from top rated dealers in the CarGurus classifieds.
1. Ford Fiesta
Number sold in first month of 2019: 5,399
Ford’s supermini continues to dominate the UK sales charts, and is loved for its smart design, competitive prices and low running costs. Throw in the fact that it’s great to drive and it’s not difficult to see why it’s so popular.
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2. Ford Focus
Number sold in first month of 2019: 4,397
The arrival of a new Ford Focus is always a big deal, so it’s not surprising to see this latest model so high in the sales charts. It remains as enjoyable to drive as ever, but now mixes in more space and technology in a bid to stay ahead of rivals.
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3. Nissan Qashqai
Number sold in first month of 2019: 4,270
The original SUV-hatchback crossover continues to do excellent business for Nissan. The introduction of a new 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine for 2019 makes what was already a strong performer even better.
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4. Volkswagen Golf
Number sold in first month of 2019: 3,930
Volkswagen might be building an increasing number of SUVs these days, but it is still a hatchback that serves as its best-selling model. That car is of course the Golf, a version of which exists for every type of buyer.
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5. Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Number sold in first month of 2019: 3,768
If you like your hatchback to be packed with the latest technology then get down to your nearest Mercedes showroom and have a closer look at the A-Class. In particular, the optional dual-screen setup for the dials and infotainment system is one of the best in the business.
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6. Vauxhall Corsa
Number sold in first month of 2019: 3,097
It might not be the most cutting-edge car on sale, but the Vauxhall Corsa still continues to attract buyers thanks to its efficient engines and keen pricing. Look out for some great deals this year as Vauxhall prepares for the arrival of an all-new Corsa.
Search for a used Vauxhall Corsa on CarGurus
7. Kia Sportage
Number sold in first month of 2019: 3,063
The Sportage has been a revelation for Kia, outselling even its cheaper hatchbacks to regularly land a place in the list of the UK’s 10 best-selling cars. It’s roomy, good to drive, well equipped and comes with a seven-year warranty.
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8. Volkswagen Polo
Number sold in first month of 2019: 2,963
The Polo has long been considered as the most grown-up small car on sale, and with the latest model Volkswagen has moved the game on yet again. In fact, so roomy and refined is the Polo these days that it almost feels like a car from the class above.
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9. Toyota Yaris
Number sold in first month of 2019: 2,821
The Yaris is unusual for being a small car that is available with a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain. Whether you choose one of these or a more conventional petrol model you get a car with a decent amount of interior space and an outstanding reliability record.
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10. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Number sold in first month of 2019: 2,606
The C-Class takes much of what is great about Mercedes-Benz’s flagship models such as the S-Class and E-Class and shrinks it into a package that can rival the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4. The result is a comfortable cruiser with efficient engines and an inviting interior.
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