Ford Fiesta Reigns Supreme in UK Used Car Market for 2025
New data has revealed the most sought-after used vehicle in the United Kingdom, with a familiar name taking the top spot despite its discontinuation from production. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) released figures this week showing the Ford Fiesta as the clear leader in second-hand car sales for the year 2025.
Sales Figures Show Fiesta's Dominance Over Competitors
The Ford Fiesta recorded an impressive 303,090 transactions throughout 2025, solidifying its position as the nation's favourite pre-owned vehicle. This performance placed it comfortably ahead of its closest rivals, with the Vauxhall Corsa achieving 247,853 sales and the Volkswagen Golf following with 226,082 exchanges. These three models formed the podium in the competitive used car market, though neither the Corsa nor Golf could surpass the blue oval brand's popular city car.
Price considerations for prospective Fiesta buyers vary significantly based on vehicle age and condition. For the final generation model produced between 2017 and 2024, industry estimates suggest a price range from approximately £4,000 to £15,000. This affordability, combined with the model's established reputation, has contributed to its ongoing popularity even after Ford ceased production and introduced the Puma as its replacement.
Electric Vehicle Presence Grows in Second-Hand Market
The SMMT's comprehensive data also highlighted a notable increase in second-hand electric vehicle transactions, indicating more zero-emission and ultra-low emission cars are entering the used market. Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT, commented on this trend, stating: "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."
Hawes further emphasized: "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."
Value Champions in the Used Car Sector
Separate automotive analysis has identified other standout models for budget-conscious buyers. Respected publication Autocar recently declared the Dacia Sandero as Britain's best value vehicle, particularly praising the second-generation model manufactured between 2013 and 2020. Journalist Alex Wolstenholme noted: "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."
Wolstenholme added: "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." This endorsement highlights the diverse opportunities available to consumers in the thriving second-hand automotive market, where both established favourites like the Fiesta and value champions like the Sandero find enthusiastic buyers.
