In 2024, 2.6 million new vehicles were registered in the UK, an increase of 3% on the previous year.
With certain makes and models dominating more than others, and a surprising result for EVs (electric vehicles) what does this mean for the future of the car industry?
10. Volkswagen Polo – 28,981 registrations
The tenth most popular car to be registered in the UK in 2024 was the Volkswagen Polo, the only supermini hatchback to make the list.
A mainstay on UK roads for years, it’s not much of a surprise that this reliable little car is so popular, particularly with more and more people living in cities. In a list dominated by SUVs and larger cars, it’s a positive sign to see an iconic compact like the Polo make the grade.
However, it’s also a petrol-powered vehicle, which may be bad news for the EV lovers.
9. Volvo XC40 – 30,202 registrations
The Volvo XC40 is available in petrol, hybrid, and electric variations, and the base model saw over 30,000 new vehicles registered in the UK in 2024. A premium compact SUV, the Volvo XC40 is a family-friendly vehicle which is surprisingly fun to drive. It’s also safe, which no doubt contributes to its popularity with families.
Do you own a Volvo XC40 or any other model for that matter? We have a fantastic Volvo number plate with V800 LVO, available for £1,299 with National Numbers.
8. MG HS – 30,207 registrations
Another petrol vehicle available as a plug-in hybrid, this mid-size SUV sold just five more than the XC40, putting it at number 8 in the most-sold list. The budget-friendly MG HS offers a bit more space than you might expect for the price tag, which could well be why it’s been so popular in the year gone by.
7. Hyundai Tucson – 32,174 registrations
The Hyundai Tucson is available in petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, and is another mid-size family SUV in the UK. With modern design inside and out and a fantastic Hyundai warranty, it’s not hard to see why the Tucson is becoming so popular in the UK, with over 32,000 new models released in 2024.
6. Volkswagen Golf – 32,370 registrations
Another VW next, with the Golf, which saw 32,370 new models released to the UK market in 2024. A family hatchback available with petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines, this classic German vehicle is a fantastic blend of comfort, quality, and performance.
It’s been a British favourite for decades and the latest version comes with all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a manufacturer as on the pulse as Volkswagen.
5. Tesla Model Y – 32,862 registrations
The only 100% electric vehicle in the list, the Tesla Model Y breaks the top five most popular new vehicles registered in the UK in 2024. A great family car with incredible power and unmatched technology, the Tesla Model Y is a sign of the changing times when it comes to accepting EVs as the norm.
However, even though 410,000 zero emission vehicles were registered for the first time in 2024, which is up 20% on 2023, we would have expected more fully electric vehicles to make the top ten. Especially with the government’s pledge to reach net zero by 2030, with vehicle manufacturers placing a huge burden on the environment.
Maybe we’ll see more initiatives rolled out to make them more affordable, and better charging networks becoming available in the UK.
In terms of private registrations for this one, we have OH73 SLA, a great Tesla number plate, available online for just £2,499, to help your Model Y shine on the UK roads.
4. Nissan Juke – 34,454 registrations
The Nissan Juke, built just up the road from our offices in Sunderland, is a petrol or hybrid compact crossover that’s incredibly widespread in the UK. The quirkier sibling of the Nissan Qashqai, this is a great car for city drivers, easy to park, and full of personality.
Younger drivers are a key reason for this one’s growth in prominence, with even more popularity likely on the horizon.
3. Nissan Qashqai – 42,418 registrations
The Qashwai comes in third with over 42,000 UK registrations in 2024, and this mid-size SUV/crossover is available as a petrol or mild hybrid.
Perfectly blending size, tech, and affordable running costs, this is the OG family car for those in need of lots of space and safety. It’s also built in the Sunderland Nissan plant, making it extremely popular in our neck of the woods.
2. Kia Sportage – 47,163 registrations
Perhaps surprisingly, the Kia Sportage had the second most new vehicle registrations in the UK in 2024. Available as a petrol, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid, this mid-sized SUV is one of the most popular Kia vehicles in the world.
It’s not hard to see why, either, with fantastic technology, a bold design, and great warranties, not to mention reliability. All of these factors have made it really popular in the UK, a sign of the times as more people are choosing mid-sized vehicles as their family cars.
1. Ford Puma – 48,340 registrations
Finally, the UK’s most popular new vehicle in 2024 - the Ford Puma.
Available in petrol or mild hybrid engine options, this compact crossover SUV is surprisingly spacious and exciting to drive, and full of great storage options. It looks great, it’s practical, and it’s affordable to run, so it’s not really a surprise to see it topping the list.
Want to Make Your Car Stand Out on UK Roads?
We have lots of new 24 series number plates and 74 series registrations available to buy online, with options to suit every budget and new vehicle registered last year.
We also have a wide range of dateless (or cherished) private plates and Northern Irish number plates available online, which can be applied to any aged vehicle.
You can also call our expert sales team on 01642 363738 for more information and to explore your options.
