It proved to be a record year for the UK automotive industry in 2015, and it appears that 2016 is on course to be even better, but what were the best selling cars in January 2016? To find out we’ve put together a list of the top 10 cars to be sold in the year so far.
• New car registrations on the up in 2016
There were 2.6 million new cars sold in 2015, but figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that January new car registrations increased 2.9 per cent from the previous year to almost 170,000 units. The Ford Fiesta accounts for 8,353 of them and, once again, reigns supreme at the top of our list.
The biggest surprise was the Nissan Qashqai jumping from fifth place in 2015 to second with 4,839 registrations in January, while the ever-popular Vauxhall Corsa was just behind in third with 4,803.
As in previous years, you’ll see parallels between the best selling models in our list below. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers, it’s the traditional family-friendly hatchbacks and superminis that still make up the majority of new car sales. Will that change as 2016 develops?
Scroll down to see the top 10 selling cars of 2016 so far, with full sales figures and details on each model.
The top 10 best-selling cars in 2016
1. Ford Fiesta – 8,353 registrations
Once again, the Ford Fiesta sits at the top of the list. It’s a regular here and it’s easy see why with its engaging drive and attractive styling – quite simply it’s once of the best all round hatchbacks money can buy. With 8,353 registrations, it’s over 3,000 sales clear of its nearest rival.
2. Nissan Qashqai – 4,839 registrations
The Nissan Qashqai sold well in 2015, but is a jump up to second place with 4,839 registrations a sign that it is a serious challenger to the smaller family hatchbacks that normally dominate at the top? It remains a great all-round car, which provides a great driving experience and good economy.
3. Vauxhall Corsa – 4,803 registrations
After jumping from third to second place on our list in 2015, the Vauxhall Corsa has started 2016 in the top three once again with 4,803 sales. With its high quality interior, good level of standard kit and cheap running costs, it remains an attractive proposition.
4. Ford Focus – 4,285 registrations
The Ford Focus seems to be slowly falling down the list, taking second spot in 2014 before falling to third in 2015. Now it finds itself in fourth place with 4,285 registrations in January, however it is still an impressive family hatchback and is great to drive.
5. Volkswagen Golf – 3,813 registrations
The Volkswagen Golf speaks for itself having been around since the 1970s, and has been one of the best selling cars in the country ever since. With its engaging handling, excellent ride and high-quality interior, it sets the benchmark that the makers of hatchback rivals judge their models against.
6. Nissan Juke – 3,446 registrations
Buoyed by the success of its big brother the Qashqai, the Nissan Juke has also started the year in fine style with 3,446 registrations. The popularity of the original compact crossover just keeps growing thanks to its unique styling and low price.
7. Volkswagen Polo – 3,298 registrations
Despite its age – the Mk5 has been on sale since 2009 – the Volkswagen Polo is still a top-10 best seller. It’s hard to argue with the beautifully built cabin, practicality, low running costs and all-round quality that make it so popular.
8. Audi A3 – 3,227 registrations
As the class leading premium family hatchback, the Audi A3 is taking the fight to the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class and winning. It may share many similarities to the Volkswagen Golf, but the superb interior and upmarket feel help make it one of the best selling cars around.
9. Vauxhall Astra – 3,185 registrations
The Vauxhall Astra retains its place in the top 10 with good reason. The all-new British built Mk7 was released last year and is one of the best all-round cars on the road right now thanks to its efficient engines, comfortable drive and groundbreaking tech.
10. Mercedes C-Class – 3.022 registrations
The executive class is one of the toughest to conquer and, with 3,022 registrations in January, the Mercedes C-Class is currently at the top. It’s posher than ever, with good looks and an upmarket interior.
Have you ever owned one of the UK's best-selling cars? Give us your view of it in the comments section below. Or take our Driver Power customer satisfaction survey.