Brits are buying cheaper car models to get better value for money

Who doesn’t love getting good value for money?

In today’s day and age, the rising cost of living means many of us are having to spend our money wisely – and it’s no different when it comes to spending money on cars.

Top 10 best sellers

Recent UK car sales data from the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders), has found that vehicles representing good value for money are currently dominating the sales charts.

So far this year, the Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Puma and Nissan Qashqai make up the top three best-selling car models, with value brands like Dacia and MG also gaining market share.

Other cheaper cars on the top 10 best-seller list (of the year so far) include the MINI, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Ford Kuga, Kia Niro, Volkswagen Golf, and the Vauxhall Mokka.

Large SUVs have failed to reach the top of the sales chart so far, while sales of electric cars are increasing – these now represent a market share of more than 12% of total sales in May, an increase of nearly 18% compared to the same month last year.

A time for “pragmatic choices”

Stuart Masson, Editorial Director at The Car Expert, the UK’s automotive consumer advice site, said: “Drivers are turning away from oversized diesel leviathans and are instead choosing smaller or fully electric vehicles.

“As consumers increasingly feel the burden of the cost of living, pressures could put strain on household budgets, especially for those locked into longer finance deals which are now typically four years instead of three.”

He added: “Drivers are making pragmatic choices. They want a vehicle that meets their needs and, with the challenges of the increasing cost of living, are cutting their cloth accordingly.

“It is intriguing how after years of cars getting ever larger, we are now seeing habits change as drivers opt for vehicles that are smaller and, in many cases, cheaper too.”

What does your choice of car say about your personality? Read our blog to find out.