It’s certainly worthy of its spot in the top 10, offering a comfortable ride and good body control, plus a plush, roomy interior. The fact that it’s also substantially cheaper than the rival Mercedes-Benz A-Class also helps its case.

Read our Audi A3 Sportback review

5. Nissan Juke – 13,070 units

The Nissan Juke remains a very popular car among UK buyers, having finished 2023 in eighth place. The crossover went on sale with a brand-new design in 2020, then a facelift arrived in the middle of last year, along with hybrid power for the first time. 

Read our Nissan Juke review

6. Volkswagen Golf – 12,651 units

The Volkswagen Golf isn’t quite as popular as it once was, but it’s still a top pick for drivers on the hunt for a good all-round family hatchback.

The more premium Audi A3 was slightly more popular in 2023, but the Golf is likely to pick up a significant boost this year with the arrival of a facelift, a more powerful GTI and longer-range plug-in hybrid models.

Read our Volkswagen Golf review 

7. BMW 1 Series – 12,210 units

The BMW 1 Series has been on sale in its current form since 2019, but it’s still a popular choice for those who want a classy hatchback with a smart interior and frugal powertrains. 

No BMW finished in the top 10 last year, but could the 1 Series change that this year? It offers a choice of petrol and diesel engines, with a model range topped by the M-tuned M135i xDrive. 

Read our BMW 1 Series review

8. MG HS – 12,101 units

This Chinese crossover offers class-leading value for money, and it received a facelift last year, putting it in line for even more mainstream success in 2024.