As with many of the world’s industries, the automotive world has taken a big hit from the coronavirus, with parts shortages continuing to limit the number of new cars that can be produced.
That said, more than 100,000 new models were still registered in October, while electric models continue to prove especially popular – now accounting for more than 15 per cent of total sales, and increasing in popularity by 73.1 per cent compared to last month.
But what about the models that continue to prove popular? These were October’s best-selling cars…
1. Volkswagen Polo, 3,167 registered
The Polo is a regular in the best-sellers list, but it’s very rarely at the top. That was the case in October, though, with this upmarket supermini overtaking options like the Fiesta and Corsa.
With a well-built and roomy interior, good standard equipment levels and excellent levels of refinement, it’s not hard to see why the Polo continues to be such a popular choice, with 3,167 examples registered last month. It also means the Polo nearly overtakes the larger Golf in the year-to-date rankings.
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It was another solid month for sales for the excellent little Mini, with this funky hatchback narrowly missing out on the top spot, with 3,133 examples registered.
This British-built supermini offers a fun driving experience and an especially cool design, while the option of three- and five-door models - as well as an all-electric option - really helps to enhance its appeal.
Enquire on a new Mini3. Nissan Qashqai, 2,838
Nissan introduced its new third-generation Qashqai earlier this year and it really seems to now be finding its feet with buyers, with this family crossover being the UK’s third best selling model last month, and also making it the most popular SUV.
Now offering a roomier interior, improved levels of technology and a more stylish design, there’s lots to like about the Qashqai, and its appeal is set to be elevated next year with the introduction of a hybrid model – Nissan’s first in Europe.
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Ford is a brand that has really taken a hit from ongoing parts shortages, with its typically best-selling Fiesta and Puma both absent from October’s list of most popular models. Thankfully, though, the Focus is still here, with this family hatchback continuing to prove popular.
It’s one of the best cars to drive in its segment, while bringing a generous amount of standard equipment and a broad range of derivatives to choose from. With Ford set to introduce a heavily revised Focus next year, it looks set to expand its appeal too.
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Vauxhall’s Corsa slides down the charts this month to fifth position, but is notable as it’s still the UK’s most popular car in 2021 so far, and looks set to continue to be.
With a stylish design, affordable prices and very attractive finance deals, the Corsa is a great small car option. You can also choose the electric Corsa-e if you’re looking for an EV, with this model accounting for a decent chunk of the model’s sales.
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Kia’s Niro is a model that’s really appealing to buyers, largely because it’s only available with electrification – a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV. It’s the latter that is proving especially popular, not least because of its generous electric range of up to 281 miles.
With excellent equipment levels, attractive prices and a generous seven-year warranty, there’s lots to like about the Niro.
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Volvo’s XC40 is a model that continues to prove hugely popular with buyers, and it’s the best-selling premium SUV by some margin – easily outselling rivals like the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA.
With its stylish design and well-built interior, it offers a very classy image, while a broad range of electrified powertrains – including an EV – also expands its appeal too, not least with company car buyers.
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Mercedes is another brand that’s been quite heavily impacted by shortages, with its popular A-Class hatchback being absent from the charts for a couple of months. But it made a return in October, with 2,239 A-Class models sold.
With the A-Class, there’s a choice of hatchback and saloon bodystyles, while a broad range of versions and engines – including a plug-in hybrid – really enhance its appeal. An upmarket interior also makes it feel especially premium for such a compact model.
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While Peugeot’s latest range of models are really appealing, its cars rarely feature in the top 10 list, so the addition of the compact 2008 crossover is a welcome change for October.
With a striking design, really upmarket interior and decent levels of practicality that make it an attractive option for families, it’s easy to see why the 2008 is proving so popular. There’s also an electric e-2008, which packs a range of around 200 miles.
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Rounding off the top 10 list is the Hyundai Tucson, which makes significant advancements in this latest generation, which hit showrooms earlier in 2021. Packing a striking design thanks to its ‘Parametric Hidden Lights’ grille, as well as a stunning interior, it’s easy to see why so many are choosing a Tucson.
The broad range of electrified options is also a big hit with buyers, with a choice of hybrid and plug-in hybrids available, alongside more traditional petrol options.
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