The UK’s new car market recorded strong growth in March, traditionally the industry’s busiest month, with registrations rising 6.6% to 380,627 vehicles, according to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
It was the strongest March (and the highest monthly total overall) since 2019.
Private buyers were the main driver of growth, with retail sales climbing 10.1% to 162,470 cars.
Fleet demand also increased, up 3.5% to 208,853 registrations, while the business sector, though smaller, saw the fastest rise at 18.8%, reaching 9,304 units.
March also set a new benchmark for electrified vehicle sales, with 196,059 registrations, reflecting continued investment by manufacturers in low‑emission technology.
Plug‑in hybrid models saw registrations jump 46.9%, capturing a 13.0% share of the market. Hybrid electric vehicles accounted for 15.8% after a 7.3% increase, while battery electric cars hit a record high, rising 24.2% to 86,120 registrations.
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*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
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- Tips and advice for buying a new car in the UK
2026 total new registrations
Here are the most sold new cars in the UK so far in 2026:
Make and model | Number of registrations |
Ford Puma | 16,128 |
Jaecoo 7 | 15,569 |
Kia Sportage | 14,190 |
Nissan Qashqai | 12,853 |
Vauxhall Corsa | 10,552 |
Volvo XC40 | 9,288 |
Volkswagen Golf | 9,176 |
MG HS | 9,147 |
Nissan Juke | 8,512 |
MINI Cooper | 8,109 |
Source: SMMT
Most new registration March 2026
Make and model | Number of registrations |
|---|---|
Jaecoo 7 | 10,064 |
Ford Puma | 9,193 |
Nissan Qashqai | 8,718 |
Kia Sportage | 7,310 |
Vauxhall Corsa | 6,315 |
Volvo XC40 | 6,311 |
MG HS | 3,135 |
Volkswagen Golf | 5,890 |
Tesla Model Y | 5,177 |
BMW 1 Series | 4,936 |
2025 total new registrations
Make and model | Number of registrations |
|---|---|
Ford Puma | 55,488 |
Kia Sportage | 47,788 |
Nissan Qashqai | 41,141 |
Vauxhall Corsa | 35,947 |
Nissan Juke | 34,773 |
Volkswagen Golf | 32,478 |
Volvo XC40 | 30,404 |
MG HS | 30,191 |
Volkswagen Tiguan | 39,857 |
Hyundai Tucson | 28,613 |
Top 10 best-selling cars in the UK 2025
Ford Puma
Ford's popular small SUV, the Puma, is easy to drive, comfortable and practical with a large boot. The Puma is also cheap to run thanks to petrol hybrid technology that keeps fuel costs down. Little wonder, perhaps, it's so popular with car buyers in Britian.
Read our full Ford Puma review.
Kia Sportage
Easy to drive, stylish and backed by a seven-year-warranty, the Kia Sportage is a serious player in the family SUV market. All versions are spacious and comfortable, while Kia’s impressive range of petrol hybrid powertrains make the Sportage rewarding to drive and affordable to run.
Read our full Kia Sportage review.
Nissan Qashqai
Popular with family car buyers, the Nissan Qashqai is one of the UK's favourite SUVs. Now in its third generation, the Qashqai is better than ever before. The interior is spacious, and the high levels of refinement make the Qashqai perfect for high mileage drivers who want a class leading family car at a price they can afford.
Read our full Nissan Qashqai review.
Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa is a popular compact car known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It offers a comfortable driving experience, modern features, and a range of engine options. Available in various trims, the Corsa is ideal for city driving and appeals to both first-time car buyers and seasoned drivers.
Read our full Vauxhall Corsa review.
Nissan Juke
The original small supermini-derived SUV, the Nissan Juke is a worthy rival to the Ford Puma thanks to its eye-catching style and driver-friendly cabin. Most buyers choose their Juke with Nissan’s excellent 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine, while the 1.6-litre hybrid is popular with drivers who want their Juke with a dose of performance.
Read our full Nissan Juke review.
Roadside cover from £5.29 a month*
- Cheaper than AA Price Promise^
- We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
- Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
Volkswagen Golf
A long‑standing favourite in the hatchback class, it known for its refined driving feel and high‑quality, understated design. It balances comfort, efficiency and everyday practicality, making it a go‑to choice for drivers who want something versatile and polished.
Read our full Volkswagen Golf review.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV that blends a clean Scandinavian design with a surprisingly spacious, practical interior. It’s known for its smooth drive, advanced safety tech, and the option of fully electric power in the XC40 Recharge.
Read our full Volvo XC40 review.
MG HS
The MG HS is a family‑sized SUV that focuses on value, offering generous space and a long list of standard features. It delivers a comfortable drive and comes with the option of a plug‑in hybrid version for those wanting lower running costs.
Read our full MG HS review.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a stylish and practical compact SUV, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. With a spacious interior, efficient engine options, and a smooth ride, it’s ideal for both city and long-distance driving. Features include modern infotainment, safety systems, and strong build quality.
Read our full Volkswagen Tiguan review
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a sharply styled midsize SUV known for its bold design and high‑tech interior. It offers a smooth, refined drive with a choice of hybrid and plug‑in hybrid options for improved efficiency.
Read our full Hyundai Tucson review.
Roadside cover from £5.29 a month*
- Cheaper than AA Price Promise^
- We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
- Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
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