The 10 best-selling used cars of 2025
Car changing is a big deal
The most popular used cars in 2025 have been revealed, with nippy hatchbacks leading the list. But which models made it into the top 10?
The UK’s used car market has recorded a third consecutive year of growth, rising 2.2% in 2025. A total of 7.8 million used cars were sold, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Used electric cars made strong inroads, jumping 45.7% year-on-year to a record 274,815 sales, increasing their market share to 3.5%, up from 2.5% the previous year.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) grew 6.3%, while hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) rose 28.6%, meaning almost 10% of all used car sales were electrified.
The SMMT figures also revealed the UK’s most popular used cars of 2025. But which ones made the list? Spoiler alert: small cars absolutely dominated!
- Ford Fiesta
- Vauxhall Corsa
- Volkswagen Golf
- Ford Focus
- BMW 3 Series
- Mini Cooper
- Volkswagen Polo
- Vauxhall Astra
- Nissan Qashqai
- Audi A3
Remember, you can buy a used car right here on Carwow. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
1. Ford Fiesta – 303,090 sold
Claiming the top spot is the Ford Fiesta – proving there’s still a huge appetite for this small hatchback, despite new car production ending in 2023. Remarkably, it alone outsold every used EV combined last year, topping 300,000 sales versus roughly 275,000 EVs.
The Ford Fiesta is great fun to drive, with a perky 100hp petrol engine. It’s also comfortable and well equipped. However, some alternatives offer more rear passenger space and larger boots.
2. Vauxhall Corsa – 247,853 sold
Taking second place in 2025 is the Vauxhall Corsa, with nearly 250,000 used examples sold over the year. This no-frills small hatchback offers smart exterior styling, a comfortable driving experience and generous standard equipment. However, the cabin design is rather dour, and the infotainment system isn’t the most intuitive.
3. Volkswagen Golf – 226,082 sold
Rounding off the podium is the Volkswagen Golf, with over 220,000 used examples registered in 2025. This iconic family hatchback offers a wide range of efficient engines and practical features that suit most needs. However, if you’re after a car that’s more fun to drive, there are sportier hatchback alternatives worth considering.
4. Ford Focus – 218,962 sold
Oh look, it’s another Ford! The Ford Focus may have been discontinued as of November last year, but that hasn’t stopped buyers flocking to snap up this standout family hatchback.
With nearly 220,000 used examples sold, the Focus is superb to drive, comes well equipped with tech and safety features, and offers ample space for families. However, the boot is only average for its class, and engine options are limited.
5. BMW 3 Series – 157,343 sold
This is the only saloon to make the top 10, with over 155,000 used examples sold in 2025, and it’s easy to see why the BMW 3 Series remains so highly regarded.
Best-in-class to drive, it combines engaging handling with handsome, timeless styling. That said, there are no physical buttons for the climate controls on the newer models, which makes older ones easier to use. Even so, it remains a strong choice for anyone considering a used premium saloon.
6. Mini Cooper – 154,527 sold
The petrol Mini Cooper hatchback sold just under 155,000 used examples in 2025. This little British gem is engaging to drive, particularly in urban environments, features a stylish interior, and remains relatively affordable despite the upmarket image. However, it has a small boot and limited rear-seat space, and the range of optional extras can be overwhelming, so it’s unlikely you’ll find two cars with the same specification on the used market.
7. Volkswagen Polo – 153,583 sold
Up next is another Volkswagen hatchback, which sold over 153,000 used units last year. The VW Polo, the younger sibling of the podium-finishing Golf, is comfortable on the road, features a slick, premium-feeling cabin, and offers plenty of boot space. However, like its bigger sibling, it isn’t as engaging to drive as some alternatives, and the entry-level petrol engine delivers modest performance.
8. Vauxhall Astra – 149,410 sold
UK drivers just can’t get enough of used hatchbacks! Another Vauxhall has made it into the top 10, with just under 150,000 used examples sold last year.
The Vauxhall Astra features attractive styling, a large and practical boot, and delivers a competent driving experience. While there’s a wide range of engines to choose from, the Astra offers a subdued drive, and we’d recommend avoiding the automatic gearbox, because it’s not particularly smooth.
9. Nissan Qashqai – 145,207 sold
At last, the first (and only) SUV on the list arrives. This handsome, easy-to-drive SUV sold over 145,000 used units last year, and it’s easy to see why so many buyers chose it.
The Nissan Qashqai is an excellent example of a family SUV: it’s practical, with a solid interior and a generous amount of standard equipment. It also offers a highly efficient hybrid engine option on newer models. However, some alternatives give you significantly more boot space.
10. Audi A3 – 125,752 sold
Finally, wrapping up the top 10 is the Audi A3, which sold over 125,000 used examples last year. It’s stylish, well equipped, and offers excellent interior build quality. That said, some alternatives are more practical, and it’s less fun to drive on twisty roads. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but the good news is that you can often find a used example for around half the new price.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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