The Shift in Car Sales Trends: Hatchbacks vs SUVs

When it comes to buying used cars in the UK, traditional hatchbacks and superminis still reign supreme, with nine out of the top 10 best-selling models falling into these categories. This stands in stark contrast to the current trend in new car sales, where SUVs have taken the lead as the preferred choice among buyers.

The rise in popularity of crossovers and SUVs, coupled with stringent safety and emissions regulations, has posed a threat to the viability of superminis and small family hatchbacks in recent years. As a result, many manufacturers have shifted their focus towards producing larger, higher-riding models, leading to the discontinuation of smaller car models.

This shift is evident in the evolution of the top 10 new car sales chart. In 2015, only two crossovers made the list – the Vauxhall Mokka and Nissan Qashqai – with traditional models like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, and Ford Focus dominating the rankings.

Fast forward to 2025, and the Qashqai is one of eight SUVs that feature in the top 10 best-selling new cars list in the UK. Models like the Ford Puma and Kia Sportage have taken the lead, with only the Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Golf representing non-SUVs in the rankings.

However, the scenario is quite different in the used car market, where hatchbacks continue to dominate and the Qashqai is the lone SUV in the top 10 best-sellers list for the first half of the year.

Superminis still hold the title for the best-selling used car body type, with the Ford Fiesta emerging as the top choice for buyers in the first half of 2025.

Despite Ford discontinuing the Fiesta in 2023, the model still maintains a strong presence on UK roads, with nearly 1.4 million registered vehicles. This indicates a persistent demand for small combustion cars, despite industry shifts towards larger models.

These latest statistics highlight the enduring appeal of traditional hatchbacks and superminis in the used car market, showcasing their strong residual values and continued popularity among buyers.