Most popular used cars revealed for May 2026

May 2026 has just come and gone, but the data hasn’t. We now know which used cars proved most popular among Carwow users last month, based on enquiry data from the platform. Spoiler alert: a Chinese SUV made it into the top three, highlighting how quickly models from this region are gaining popularity in the UK.

So which models came out on top? Here’s the top 10 at a glance (click to learn more about each model and see the latest used deals):

1. Kia Sportage
2. BMW 3 Series
3. Jaecoo 7
4. Range Rover Evoque
5. Mercedes A-Class
6. Hyundai Tucson
7. Nissan Qashqai
8. Audi A3
9. BMW 1 Series
10. Mercedes CLA

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. Kia Sportage

Topping our list of enquiries for used cars in May is the Kia Sportage. This practical SUV has a premium-feeling cabin as well as roomy back seats and a boot of up to 591 litres. But while we think it’s a very well-equipped family car, it’s pretty bland to drive and is not as efficient as alternatives.

2. BMW 3 Series

Taking silver is a brilliant all-rounder and one of the best in its class to drive. The BMW 3 Series features excellent in-car screens and is highly practical in its Touring estate form. However, it no longer has physical buttons for air conditioning, and you’ll lose a bit of boot space if you opt for the plug-in hybrid version.

3. Jaecoo 7

Rounding out our podium is a Chinese SUV that you’ve likely seen more of on our roads. The Jaecoo 7 has a well-made interior, head-turning styling and is excellent value for money thanks to its generous amounts of standard kit. That said, we find that this Jaecoo isn’t very good to drive, and it’s not as practical as its boxy styling would have you believe.

4. Range Rover Evoque

Just missing out on the top three is the Range Rover Evoque, a posh and desirable SUV that performs well off-road. It also has generous luggage space, is good to drive, and comes with diesel, petrol, and hybrid engine options. That said, it’s quite expensive despite its fairly plain interior, and only the plug-in hybrid version is really economical.

5. Mercedes A-Class

We’re halfway through the list now, and the fifth most enquired-about used car in May is a good-looking hatchback with a posh badge in the grille. Not only does the Mercedes A-Class have decent interior storage, it’s easy and relaxing to drive too. But it does have poor build quality inside, and the boot could be bigger.

6. Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson ticks all of the family car boxes thanks to its interior quality, practicality and huge boot up to a whopping 620 litres. It’s pretty stylish inside too, with a range of petrol and hybrid engines to choose from. However, the exterior design is a bit jarring and it’s not the most fun to drive.

7. Nissan Qashqai

This SUV is one of the most popular cars in the UK for a reason. Not only does it look handsome, it’s easy to drive with a great hybrid option too. Not to mention it’s got a practical, solid interior and comes with lots of standard kit. That said, the boot space in the Qashqai is smaller than alternatives and it’s not the most fun to drive.

8. Audi A3

Looking for a premium hatchback? The Audi A3 could be the one for you. It has a striking design inside and out, as well as excellent build quality. It comes well equipped as standard, too. However, we find it’s not much fun on twisty roads, and other hatchbacks are much more practical.

9. BMW 1 Series

Breaking into the top 10 is this posh hatchback from BMW. It may be the German brand’s smallest car in its range, but it offers top-notch tech and a high-quality interior. Not to mention, it’s great fun to drive. However, the rear seats aren’t the most spacious, and we found it’s not as comfortable as some alternatives.

10. Mercedes CLA

Completing the top 10 most-enquired used models on Carwow in May is the Mercedes CLA. It’s a stylish saloon with a spacious cabin and a trio of mild hybrid options. Its main drawback is a tech-heavy dashboard that can feel a little overwhelming.

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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