Top 10: Best-selling car alternatives

March 01, 2014

In the UK, the top of the new car registrations league table doesn’t seem to alter much from one quarter to the next. Not that there’s anything wrong with the best-selling models, but obviously by definition they’re going to be a common sight.

So, to coincide with ‘14’ registration plates appearing for the first time today, here are some suggestions to consider instead of the ten best-selling cars of 2013.

Undoubtedly they might not all be class-leaders in certain areas. However, these alternatives show that there are plenty of decent options available for buyers who want something more individual.

	Best-sellers	Alternatives
1.	Ford Fiesta	Chrysler Ypsilon
	(£9,995 - £19,245)	(£10,750 - £14,995)

When was the last time you saw a Fiesta? And an Ypsilon? Exactly. The Chrysler is actually a rebadged Lancia, which goes some way to explaining the adventurous design. For the full eye-catching effect, go for a two-tone ‘Black&Red’ version.
2.	Ford Focus	Škoda Octavia
	(£13,995 - £26,595)	(£16,310 - £25,505)

Starting prices for the Škoda are higher compared to the Ford’s, but to make up for that the third-generation Octavia hatchback is 301 mm (11.9”) longer than its Focus rival. The range also includes an estate that boasts a loadspace volume of up to 1,740 litres.
3.	Vauxhall Corsa	MG 3
	(£8,995 - £22,390)	(£8,399 - £9,999)

The recently-launched MG 3 has sharp styling, loads of customisation opportunities, extremely competitive prices and (apart from the cheapest version) generous equipment levels. Only one engine is available though, a 1.5 litre petrol unit that’s not especially efficient or powerful.
4.	Vauxhall Astra	Mazda 3
	(£12,995 - £27,260)	(£16,695 - £23,345)

Mazda offers its C-segment contender in five-door hatchback or four-door Fastback guises, with both benefiting from the marque’s latest Kodo ‘Soul of Motion’ design language. All variants come with Bluetooth and a colour touchscreen multimedia system as standard.
5.	Volkswagen Golf	Alfa Romeo Giulietta
	(£16,775 - £33,475)	(£18,235 - £25,785)

In terms of image, the Golf could be described as solid, dependable and reliable. Whether the Giulietta instantly evokes such adjectives is probably debateable, but it certainly has more style. The current line-up of four trim grades will be joined by the high performance Quadrifoglio Verde later this year.
6.	Nissan Qashqai	Mini Countryman
	(£17,595 - £27,845)	(£16,615 - £28,605)

Measuring 4,097 mm (13’ 5”) long and 1,561 mm (5’ 1”) tall, the Countryman isn’t exactly mini. Indeed, like the Qashqai, this Mini is a mid-size crossover that comes with either front- or all-wheel drive. For performance fans the range-topping John Cooper Works version has 215 bhp (160 kW / 218 PS).
7.	BMW 3 Series	Citroën DS5
	(£23,550 - £56,175)	(£22,960 - £33,360)

The BMW’s capabilities almost make it the automatic choice for people wanting a compact executive car. However, for anybody desiring something radically different there’s the DS5. Striking looks, five-door practicality and an inviting interior are all points in its favour.
8.	Volkswagen Polo	Citroën DS3
	(£10,770 - £20,350)	(£12,495 - £21,650)

Another DS, this time the DS3 supermini which can be specified as either a three-door hatchback or a cabriolet. Ten paint shades, four roof colours, six dashboard finishes, various bodywork graphics and a choice of wheels and upholsteries mean masses of personalisation possibilities.
9.	BMW 1 Series	Volvo V40
	(£17,775 - £31,365)	(£18,995 - £34,130)

While the V40’s dynamics are going to struggle against the rear-wheel drive 1 Series, the Volvo is regarded for the quality of its interior. Standard equipment for all V40 models includes climate control, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and dynamic stability and traction control with torque vectoring.
10.	Peugeot 208	Nissan Note
	(£9,995 - £18,895)	(£12,100 - £17,100)

A long wheelbase, short overhangs and an almost vertical tailgate combine to give the Note more interior space than many of its competitors. Another plus is efficiency, as the 1.5 litre diesel option achieves an impressive 78.4 mpg (3.6 l/100km) on the combined cycle while emitting 92 g/km of CO2.