Best-selling cars in February revealed as UK hits 2004 sales peak – EVs lag behind
Car changing is a big deal
February was a busy month for UK car buyers, with 90,100 new cars sold – the busiest February in 22 years, even with many waiting for March plates. The Ford Puma also topped the charts, overtaking the Jaecoo 7 in last month’s top 10 best-sellers.
The UK’s new car market grew by 7.2% in February, reaching 90,100 registrations, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
It’s the busiest February for new car registrations since 2004, though the month typically sees lower volumes as many buyers wait for the March number plate change.
But what else do the figures reveal about the new car market? Read on to find out.
Remember, you can buy a brand-new car right here on Carwow. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Electric car growth slows
Electric vehicle registrations rose 2.8% to 21,840 units, but market share dipped to 24.2%, marking the second month of year-on-year decline. This partly reflects the strong start to 2025, when buyers rushed to register EVs ahead of April tax changes.
Lower February volumes can also exaggerate market share fluctuations, the SMMT pointed out.
Plug-in hybrids surge as diesel declines
Other electrified models saw stronger growth. Plug-in hybrid registrations surged 43.5%, giving them an 11.6% market share, while hybrid electric vehicles grew 3.3% to account for 13.1% of registrations.
Among conventional fuels, petrol registrations rose 5.2%, although their overall share slipped to 46.5%, while diesel continued its long-term decline, falling 3.8% to just 4.5% of the market.
What about the most popular car models?
Although the Jaecoo 7 toppled the likes of the Ford Puma to claim second place in January, the Puma reclaimed the top spot in February, with 3,220 units now in the hands of drivers. This shows the Puma remains incredibly popular, especially considering it was the best-selling model in 2025.
Meanwhile, the Jaecoo 7 stays in the top three car models year-to-date, with 5,505 new registrations – a strong start for the Chinese brand, which only launched in the UK in January 2025.
The Tesla Model 3 surged into the top five best-selling cars in February, racking up 1,584 registrations. Elon Musk’s flagship EV even outpaced the Jaecoo 7 last month.
Here are the top 10 models sold in February 2026:
| Model | Number of sales |
|---|---|
| Ford Puma | 3,220 |
| Kia Sportage | 2,205 |
| Mini Cooper | 1,828 |
| Tesla Model 3 | 1,584 |
| Jaecoo 7 | 1,446 |
| Volvo XC40 | 1,392 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 1,379 |
| Vauxhall Corsa | 1,335 |
| Ford Kuga | 1,286 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 1,222 |
March sales expected to be decisive
Now that the March number plate is here, the automotive industry is hoping for a surge in demand. Carmakers have already invested billions in new electric vehicle (EV) models and incentives, supported by the government’s Electric Car Grant. However, the transition to EVs faces uncertainty due to proposals for a pay-per-mile tax (eVED) starting in 2028, which could affect buyer confidence.
What this means for you
If you’re looking to buy a new car, the February data from SMMT shows a mixed picture.
- Petrol and hybrid models remain widely available, with moderate discounts as dealerships compete for buyers ahead of March.
- Electric vehicles are growing in popularity, but slower market share gains suggest buyers may face less urgency in the short term.
- Plug-in hybrids are seeing the fastest growth, offering a bridge option for those not ready to fully commit to electric.
- March is likely to bring increased deals, as manufacturers and fleets push to hit sales targets and new models are launched.
“The UK’s new car market is continuing to recover and EV volumes are growing too, even if market share remains disappointing,” said SMMT’s chief executive Mike Hawes. “All eyes are now on ‘new plate’ March, which typically sets the tone for the year – and given sales of new pure petrol and diesel cars are currently required to end in less than four years, EV uptake must accelerate rapidly.”
There’s never been more choice for car buyers, but if you’re thinking about an electric car, it’s worth considering the available incentives like the Electric Car Grant, how much it will cost to run day-to-day, and any potential taxes that could come in the future.
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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