How cheap really ARE Britain’s best-selling cars? Most cost-effective is loved hatchback but it’s bad news for EV maker

A GROUP of car experts have revealed the costs of servicing, maintaining and repairing Britain’s top 10 best-selling cars. 

Automotive data experts at Solera cap hpi have picked out which of the nation’s favourite motors come with the lowest overall costs – with a hugely popular hatchback ranking top. 

3

3

3

They found that drivers of the Volkswagen Golf – specifically the Hatchback 1.5 TSI Match 5dr – face an average SMR cost of £841.26, which covers maintenance and tires over a three-year period and 30,000 miles.

That includes an average monthly SMR cost of 2.80 pence per mile, an average fuel cost of £3,504.00, and an average monthly total cost of ownership of £553.76.

Coming in behind the Golf is the Ford Puma – the nation’s best-selling car for two years in a row. 

Their data found the Gen-E Electric Hatchback 123kW Select 43kWh 5dr Auto version boasted an average SMR cost of £842.12 – with a monthly 2.81 pence per mile SMR cost.

That’s along with an average fuel cost of £1,124.00 and average monthly total cost of ownership of £499.75.

Volkswagen are sitting pretty with the Polo coming in third. 

The insurance-friendly 1.0 Life boasts an average SMR cost of £991.26. 

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, the Polo has a monthly SMR cost of 3.30 pence per mile, an average fuel cost of £3,571.00 and an average monthly total cost of ownership of £431.31.

On the flip side, Tesla‘s Model Y Hatchback, specifically the Long Range RWD 5dr Auto version, was ninth on the list, with an average monthly total cost of ownership of £739.23.

Steve Chambers, senior editor for SMR at Solera cap hpi, said: “SMR costs are crucial considerations for drivers, as they can significantly impact the overall expense of vehicle ownership. 

“Our data identifies the Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.5 TSI Match as one of the most cost-effective vehicles in terms of maintenance and illustrates how motorists can use data to their advantage when making their next car purchase.

“When evaluating SMR costs, drivers should consider several factors. 

“The availability and price of replacement parts can significantly influence maintenance expenses. 

“Vehicles with simpler mechanics and fewer high-tech components often incur lower repair costs due to their straightforward design and the abundance of affordable parts. 

“The condition of local roads also has a role to play; poor road conditions can lead to increased wear and tear, resulting in higher repair bills. 

“The presence of advanced safety technology can influence insurance premiums, potentially offsetting some maintenance costs. 

“Regular maintenance and prompt attention to minor issues are essential practices that can prevent more costly repairs in the future, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the vehicle and as the EV market continues to grow it’s worth drivers considering making the switch when it comes to service and maintenance costs, and they do cost less to run.”