For those looking to save a few quid, the second-hand car market is a blessing. Perfectly serviceable motors can be bagged for a fraction of the price – such as one vehicle hailed as being the "best value" motor in the UK.
Now, the most sought-after motor in this sector has been unveiled. Earlier this week, the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) released data revealing the top-selling used car in the UK.
The results showed a familiar name topping the list - despite no longer being in production.
The winner was the Ford Fiesta, with 303,090 examples of the popular city car changing hands during 2025. Hot on its heels was the Vauxhall Corsa with 247,853 transactions, followed by the Volkswagen Golf with 226,082 exchanges.
How much one pays for a used Ford Fiesta will vary depending on the age and condition. For the last generation model produced between 2017 and 2024, WhatCar? suggests one would pay between £4,000 and £15,000.
For a long time, the Ford Fiesta was one of, if not the best, selling car in the UK before it was discontinued and replaced by the Puma. Now, having dominated the new car market, the Fiesta is ruling the roost in the used car market too, reports the Express.
SMMT's data also highlighted an increase in second-hand electric cars, with more and more of these vehicles making their way into the market.
Following the release of the data, Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said: "A third year of used car sales growth underscores the market's resilience, with recovering new car demand revitalising choice and affordability - especially for EVs - in the used market.
"The record number of buyers making the switch signals growing confidence in zero and ultra-low emission motoring. Maintaining this momentum, however, and driving the fleet renewal needed to decarbonise our roads at pace, must start with ensuring a strong and sustainable new car market."
The SMMT's figures emerge after respected automotive publication Autocar declared a £1,000 car as Britain's best value vehicle.
The publication championed the Dacia Sandero as a used car champion, particularly the second generation model manufactured between 2013 and 2020.
Journalist Alex Wolstenholme at the publication wrote: "A new one today will set you back more than £15,000, so bona fide bargain hunters are best served by a tidy second-generation model.
"As cars become ever more expensive and complex, the simple, sensible Mk2 Sandero is a breath of fresh air, with a definite whiff of future classic about it."
