The analysis of the average UK monthly search volume for the past six months reveals the Nissan Qashqai as the undisputed champion, attracting a remarkable 815,000 searches in the six months August 2023-Jan 2024.
Interestingly, the second-place position goes to the KIA Sportage, likely accumulating 765,000 searches over the last six months due to its new efficient Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid powertrain options. Third place goes to the nation’s well-loved Audi A3; this hatchback-style car is a family favourite in the UK gathering 685,000 searches, according to analysis by Hippo Leasing.
What we could be buying may surprise you but a lot of interest will be down to prices and promotions at specific times and depending on what stock has built up in showrooms and holding compounds as well as inventories of unsold cars, notably pure electric models.
There are also some new entrants beginning to make impressions in buyers’ minds.
While the top five positions in terms of total searches remained consistent with Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, and Honda, the focus on percentage year-over-year change brought attention to some interesting findings.
BYD (above) has experienced the most significant surge in interest among Asian manufacturers in the last six months, according to UK search data analysed by Hippo Leasing. BYD witnessed an astounding 812% increase in searches, securing its top position.
Hippo Leasing’s analysis of consumer interest in car models from August 2023 to January 2024, compared to the same period the previous year reveals significant shifts in preferences within the UK automotive market.
Leading the pack is the Renault Scenic E-Tech, the latest iteration of the iconic Scenic model that debuted in 1996. Despite its mature lineage, the E-Tech version has experienced a remarkable rejuvenation, with search volume skyrocketing by 18,900% year-over-year. This success can be attributed to the growing demand for electrified vehicles and the model’s ability to cater to families seeking sustainable transportation solutions.
Following closely behind is the all-new Lexus LBX, a self-charging hybrid compact SUV, boasting a staggering 12,631% increase in search volume compared to the previous year. This remarkable growth underscores the continued appeal of hybrid technology and the brand’s success in capturing consumer attention in this segment.
Rounding out the top three is the BYD Seal, an all-electric saloon generating significant buzz with a 3,681% increase in searches compared to the previous year. This impressive growth showcases the increasing popularity of the Chinese car manufacturer since its UK debut in March 2023, with the Atto 3.
