1. Vauxhall Corsa
Units registered: 40,914
The old Corsa may not have been brilliant, but it still sold well. This new model is much better, and it's reaping the rewards for that improvement. Available in petrol and electric guises, it's up there with the best superminis in the business.
2. Tesla Model 3
Units registered: 34,783
A favourite among customers ever since it was announced, the Model 3 mixes a huge zero-emission range with minimalist style and cutting-edge technology. A December surge in sales saw it nick second place in the 2021 sales charts.
3. Mini Hatch
Units registered: 31,792
The Mini was updated earlier this year, and now it's reaping the rewards. Great fun to drive and premium on the inside, this cute supermini has the substance to match the style.
4. Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Units registered: 30,710
A vast improvement on the old A-Class, the new model comes with improved tech and a more appealing interior - all of which have helped it achieve such impressive sales figures. A new saloon version has also increased the baby Merc's customer base.
5. Volkswagen Polo
Units registered: 30,634
The closest rival to the Corsa and Fiesta, the Polo mixes the compact size of a small hatchback with the class and competence of a semi-premium German brand. A common sight on UK roads, the Polo remains a hugely popular choice.
6. Volkswagen Golf
Units registered: 30,240
After undergoing a complete overhaul in 2020, the new Golf is carrying on where its predecessor left off. The performance models currently arriving on these shores will also boost the car's appeal.
7. Nissan Qashqai
Units registered: 29,992
The new-generation Qashqai is here and it's hoping to emulate the success of its predecessor. Smarter inside and out, it has all the ingredients of a popular family SUV.
8. Ford Puma
Units registered: 28,697
Fresh-faced and absolutely nothing like the old Puma - a sporty two-door coupe based on the old Ford Ka - the new Puma has been a hit. A cute face, massive boot and Ford's trademark road manners have given it a helping hand.
9. Kia Sportage
Units registered: 27,611
It's hardly new, but the Sportage is a talented family SUV that's been a hit with customers. A seven-year warranty, solid cabin and intuitive infotainment system have helped its cause.
8. Ford Fiesta
Units registered: 27,000
A perennial top seller, the Fiesta is a firm favourite among UK customers. Sporty looks, great handling and efficient engines make it worthy of its place among the best in class.
7. Kia Niro
Units registered: 2,956
One of the few compact SUVs to be offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric guises, the Niro has been a roaring success for Kia. It's a solid alternative to the established Japanese and European rivals, and the electric version in particular is a revelation.
10. Ford Focus
Units registered: 2,631
Normally found far further up this list, the Focus has become a firm favourite over the years. Not only is it a useful family hatchback, but it's a great driver's car, too.
10. Toyota Yaris
Units registered: 27,415
Toyota's answer to the European superminis does things differently. Solely available as a hybrid and offered with Toyota's bulletproof reputation for reliability, the Yaris has been a big hit with customers.
10. Ford Kuga
Units registered: 9,640
Great to drive, easy on the eye and well kitted out, the Kuga is one of the best SUVs out there. Borrowing much from the talented Ford Focus, and blessed with an impressively efficient engine range, it's a compelling proposition for any buyer.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan
Units registered: 7,384
Newly revamped for 2021, the Tiguan has found a fresh face, updated technology and increased efficiency. And it's clearly a hit with customers, who have flocked to the family SUV in their droves.
8. Volvo XC40
Units registered: 12,449
An instant hit, the stylish XC40 is yet another reminder that Volvo has got 'cool' sorted. With a choice of petrol, electric and plug-in hybrid power, as well as a classy cabin and plenty of space, it's among the very best compact SUVs.
9. Nissan Qashqai OLD
Units registered: 17,812
The current-generation Qashqai has been a hit ever since it arrived in 2014. One of those cars that simply slides into modern life without a murmur, the sales figures show just how successful this British-built SUV has become.
10. BMW 3 Series
Units registered: 26,115
With sharp looks, fine handling and a classy interior, the BMW 3 Series is arguably the best executive saloon out there. And with attractive finance deals helping its cause, it deserves every bit of its popularity.
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