The new car market continues to be impacted by the ongoing shortages of semiconductors, which is hindering manufacturers from producing as many cars as they would like to.
Though new car sales did increase by 1.7 per cent compared to November 2020, it’s worth remembering that this period last year was when the UK entered a further lockdown. The Society of Motor Manufacturers (SMMT), which compiled the data, said the market was down almost a third compared to a ‘normal’ November.
But amid the doom and gloom, there are plenty of positives, not least the number of electrified models registered. EVs especially soared in popularity, accounting for almost a fifth of registration, while plug-in hybrids also made up nearly one-in-10 cars registered.
And what about the most popular cars during the month? Let’s take a look.
1. Mini, 3,551 registered
Though the Mini is usually one of the UK’s most popular cars, it’s rarely THE most popular. It was, however, in November, with more than 3,500 examples of this fun hatchback being registered.
Bringing a sporty driving experience, a stylish design and upmarket interior, the Mini deserves all the success it’s getting.
Enquire on a new MiniVauxhall Corsa, 3,123
For years the Corsa has been near the top of the charts, and Vauxhall’s latest supermini remains hugely popular. Though not quite the most popular car in November, the Corsa continues to be the best-selling overall in 2021, and will remain so at the end of the year too.
With its smart styling and generous equipment levels, this is the best Corsa yet, while the option of an electric model is really enhancing its appeal.
Enquire on a new Vauxhall Corsa3. Tesla Model 3, 3,077
Tesla continues to inspire many other manufacturers’ EVs, and the Model 3 continues to be hugely popular, and also the UK’s best-selling electric car. Outselling models like the Ford Fiesta and Focus in November, just over 3,000 Model 3s landed with customers last month.
With its futuristic interior, access to Tesla’s excellent electric car charging network and long electric range of up to 360 miles, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing the Model 3.
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Hyundai is a brand that’s continuing to go from strength-to-strength, and its mid-size Tucson SUV is proving a huge success for the South Korean manufacturer. In fact, it was the best-selling SUV overall in November.
The latest Tucson offers an impressive eye-catching design, along with a roomy and high-tech interior. Combined with a wide range of electrified powertrains and trim levels, the Tucson easily outclasses many of its rivals.
Enquire on a new Hyundai Tucson5. Ford Focus, 2,576
Ford is a manufacturer that has really been impacted by shortages of semiconductors, with models like its Fiesta and Puma really slumping in popularity as a result. It’s pleasing to see, though, that the mid-size Focus is still making this list, with just over 2,500 examples being registered.
Ford is also shortly preparing a heavily revised model, introducing a sharper new grille and vastly overhauled interior featuring a brand-new media system that should transform the Focus.
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At a time when many manufacturers are really struggling, one such that isn’t is MG as it’s sales are absolutely soaring, and almost quadrupled in November, compared to the same period in 2020. In fact, it sold more cars last month than Mazda and Renault combined.
The key model driving its popularity is the ZS crossover, and especially the brand’s ZS EV. Offering great value, a roomy interior and generous warranty, it’s no wonder many are choosing this as their first EV. MG is also just launching a revised version, bringing a significantly longer range, fresher styling and new media system.
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The Qashqai was the original ‘crossover’ and now in its third generation, it’s still more than able to hold its own, and remains one of the most popular models in this segment.
Produced in Sunderland, the new Qashqai gets a smart new interior, greater practicality levels and a more stylish design. Next year Nissan will also launch a new ePower version as its first hybrid model in Europe, which should add to the popularity.
Enquire on a new Nissan Qashqai8. Mercedes A-Class, 2,327
The A-Class continues to lead the way in the premium hatchback class, with the German firm’s baby model now being the UK’s second most popular car overall throughout 2021 – quite the achievement.
With its smart design inside and out, high-tech cabin and attractive finance deals, it’s clear to see why so many people are choosing the A-Class. There’s also a huge range of trims and engines on offer, including the A250e plug-in hybrid that can easily travel 40 miles on electricity.
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Though VW’s traditional best-selling Polo and Golf are both absent from November’s list, the brand’s T-Roc crossover has made an appearance. With its funky styling, high-set driving position and impressive standard equipment levels, the T-Roc is a fine compact crossover.
Volkswagen also recently showed off its revised version, which is set to introduce more technology and a more upmarket-feeling interior to the mix.
Enquire on a new Volkswagen T-Roc10. Volvo XC40, 2,081
Last but not least is the Volvo XC40, which continues to be a huge hit for this Swedish marque. With its smart design, upmarket interior and focus on comfort, it’s no surprise it’s outselling rivals from Audi, BMW and Mercedes.
The XC40 is also available with a wide range of electrified powertrains, including both plug-in hybrids and full-EVs, with the latter really helping to drive the XC40’s popularity in recent months.
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