February is always one of the quietest months for new car registrations, with many buyers choosing to wait until March to take advantage of the latest new number plate.
But nevertheless, just shy of 59,000 new cars were registered in the UK last month, representing a 15 per cent increase compared to 2020, though that was when Britain remained in a lockdown.
Electric cars also continue to make up a significant chunk of sales, with registrations almost tripling those from 2021, with EVs now making up nearly 18 per cent of entire registrations. That’s helped by eight of the top 10 best-selling cars last month being sold as an EV, but what were the most popular cars last month? Let’s take a look…
1. Vauxhall Corsa, 1,997 registrations
The Vauxhall Corsa was Britain’s most popular car overall in 2021, and it looks to be extending its streak into 2022 as well. With just short of 2,000 models sold, it tops February’s charts.
Through a combination of good value, style and an enjoyable driving experience, the Corsa is one of the best small cars on the market. The electric Corsa-e is also accounting for an increasingly large chunk of sales.
Enquire on a new Vauxhall Corsa2. Mini, 1,775 registrations
The only British-built car on this list, Mini’s Hatch continues to be a hugely popular choice in the supermini segment. Produced in Oxford, the Mini is packed with style, and is hugely enjoyable to drive.
There are plenty of versions to choose too, from the affordable One to the sporty John Cooper Works hot hatch. The Mini Electric is also really starting to take off, with its combination of fun, style and low running costs really appealing to inner-city motorists.
Enquire on a new Mini3. Vauxhall Mokka, 1,465 registrations
Vauxhall’s latest Mokka crossover represented a significant step up from its predecessor, and seems to be paying off for the firm, as it’s the third best-selling car in February, and also the most popular crossover/SUV on the market.
The Mokka shows a stylish new direction for Vauxhall, while remaining affordable and generously equipped. The Mokka-e EV is also worth considering if you’re looking for an electrified option.
Enquire on a new Vauxhall Mokka4. Tesla Model Y, 1,306 registrations
Tesla only began delivering its new Model Y in the UK last month, but it’s already one of the best-selling cars. It’s been eagerly awaited for some time, with many existing Tesla owners trading up into this new SUV.
One of its stand-out points is the fact it’s available with seven seats – the only car in its class to do so – while it continues to lead the way for technology, while also offering an electric range of up to 315 miles.
Enquire on a new Tesla Model Y5. Tesla Model 3, 1,275 registrations
Tesla also has a second model in the top five best-sellers list with the Model 3. It’s the car the ‘Y’ uses as its base, and continues to be a hugely popular EV in the UK.
The Model 3 is great to drive, offers sensational performance and when in ‘Long Range’ form, can also travel up to a remarkable 374 miles from a single charge. It’s no wonder so many are trading out of their conventional saloons and into this Tesla.
Find a great deal on your next car!6. Kia Niro, 1,184 registrations
Kia has increased its sales in recent years, and a big reason behind its success has been the Niro. It’s perfectly placed to take advantage of the growing number of buyers looking for an electrified car, as it’s available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and an EV.
It’s the latter car that’s proving especially popular, with its 282-mile electric range being a big draw. The Niro also offers a practical interior and generous equipment levels, along with Kia’s class-leading seven-year warranty.
Enquire on a new Kia Niro7. Ford Puma, 1,165 registrations
Ford’s Puma crossover now seems to have overtaken the Fiesta to become the brand’s best-selling car, and its combination of style, fun and spaciousness is one that many buyers clearly appreciate.
The Puma also comes with efficient mild-hybrid petrol engines, which are able to return more than 50mpg, while a sporty ST model is ideal for those looking for something sporty yet also practical.
Enquire on a new Ford Puma8. Peugeot 2008, 984 registrations
The 2008 crossover now outsells the 208 supermini in Peugeot’s range, with this stylish compact SUV offering a decent amount of interior space, loads of space and a high-quality cabin.
It uses the same fundamentals as the Vauxhall Mokka, meaning you can also have it as an EV with the e-2008, returning a claimed range of more than 200 miles.
Enquire on a new Peugeot 20089. Hyundai Kona, 966 registrations
Hyundai is another growing brand in the UK, and though the radical-looking IONIQ 5 might be grabbing all the limelight, it’s actually the brand’s Kona that seems to be selling best.
The key attraction to this funky-looking crossover is the sheer choice, with a mild-hybrid, hybrid and EV all on offer – with the Electric offering a superb claimed range of 300 miles. There’s even the sporty Kona N on offer for those seeking something a bit wilder.
Enquire on a new Hyundai Kona10. Ford Kuga, 952 registrations
Rounding off the top 10 in February is Ford’s Kuga. Outselling models like the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson last month, this Ford’s stylish design, affordable prices and spaciousness all offer plenty of appeal to families.
The Kuga is also available as a plug-in hybrid, which is among one of the best electrified cars in its segment, thanks to its exceptional efficiency, even once the battery has run out of charge.
Enquire on a new Ford Kuga