The best-selling new cars in January 2021

The first month of 2021 proved to be yet another difficult one for car dealers in the UK, with new car registrations falling by 39.5 per cent, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). 

However, despite the challenges faced by dealerships, the month did give us a good insight into how popular certain models have become. Let’s take a closer look. 

Vauxhall Corsa: 3,078

It comes as little surprise to see the Corsa sitting pretty at the top of January’s charts. It is, after all, a consistent favourite with all manner of drivers across the UK thanks to its great value for money and impressive equipment levels.

The latest version really is the best yet, while an electric version gives buyers a zero-emissions option too. 

Kia Sportage: 2,986

Kia’s Sportage has remained a firm favourite with plenty of drivers who are drawn in by its striking looks, comprehensive warranty and impressive level of equipment. 

It’s also impressively reliable, while a good level of refinement makes it quiet and comfortable over longer journeys too. 

Nissan Qashqai: 2,835

Nissan’s Qashqai might shortly be up for replacement, but that hasn’t made a dent in its popularity, with just over 2,800 cars being registered during the month.

The Qashqai was one of the cars to spark off the crossover craze, bringing the high-up driving position that people love. 

Ford Fiesta: 2,594

Ford’s Fiesta is yet another big-hitter in the popular car stakes, having become a household name after decades of providing honest, reliable and good-value motoring for the masses. 

The latest generation is by far the most accomplished to date, while a series of mild-hybrid engines have boosted the Fiesta’s eco credentials. 

Volvo XC40: 2,201

Volvo is showing the premium manufacturers a thing or two about making good quality and desirable new cars. Its XC40 is one of the best examples of this, combining the firm’s striking design with a high-end and luxurious-feeling cabin. 

Available with a series of efficient yet punchy engines, the XC40 really is the one to beat in the compact SUV segment. 

Mercedes A-Class: 1,859

The A-Class is yet another consistent sight on this list thanks to its premium interior and wide-ranging selection of trim levels. It has recently been boosted with the introduction of a plug-in hybrid model, which only adds another string to the A-Class’s bow. 

Performance-orientated AMG versions remain a popular choice with enthusiast drivers, but even more mainstream models offer a good driving experience. 

Volkswagen Golf: 1,779

Volkswagen’s latest eighth-generation Golf is now coming fully on stream, having been hampered last year by the coronavirus pandemic which stagnated initial deliveries. However, since then it has come on in leaps and bounds.

In recent months Volkswagen has introduced GTI and GTE performance models, adding to the Golf’s list of available powertrains. 

Ford Puma 1,760

The Puma has really made waves since being released, with this Fiesta-based crossover turning heads thanks to its distinctive styling and variety of eye-catching colours. It’s good to drive, too, thanks to well-sorted suspension and neat handling. 

A range-topping ST variant was introduced recently too, adding a punchy 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine into the mix. 

Kia Niro: 1,741

Kia’s Niro has the bonus of being available with one of three powertrains - regular hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric. It’s this variety which seems to strike a chord with buyers and gives them a multitude of options with the same car.

But it’s in other areas where the Niro shines too. It’s well built, packed with features and comes with an impressive seven-year warranty too. 

Ford Focus: 1,686

The Ford Focus slumped into tenth place in January, with just shy of 1,690 units shifted during the month. It’s yet another car we frequently see in the list, with its combination of practicality and efficiency often proving on the money for buyers. 

It also comes with a variety of engine options as well as, like other Ford models, a range-topping ST version.