Close Brothers Motor Finance has revealed the most popular cars to finance in 2025.
The list shows motorists are continuing to prioritise more practical and budget-friendly options over newer, bigger models to ensure they can afford long term car expenses and running costs, highlighting that affordability is the priority for the majority of drivers.
This has been key to informing forecourt stock decisions for dealers. The most popular car on finance was the Volkswagen Golf, followed by the Ford Focus, Ford Fiesta, Mercedes-Benz A Class and BMW 3 Series.
John Cassidy, managing director of sales at Close Brothers Motor Finance, said: “Motorists have faced another tough year which is reflected in the selection of petrol and diesel vehicles on this list.
“As the cost of motoring continues to rise – and even becomes completely unaffordable to some – it’s little surprise to see economical, practical and smaller cars make up the bulk of the top 10.
“This will pose further challenges for manufacturers who are having to produce electric vehicles in line with the ZEV mandate. However demand is beginning to rise, which should provide a glimmer of hope for the year ahead.
“However, Government support will be vital. Though an EV grant was reintroduced, the options are limited, and the decision to apply a pay-per-mile tax to EVs could put potential buyers off.
Incentives will play a crucial role in meeting targets, and this will need to be a focus point for the Government in 2026.
“Electric vehicle infrastructure remains inadequate for widespread adoption, and the lack of incentives could further stall the transition away from traditional petrol and diesel vehicles. As news comes of the EU potentially watering down its plans to ban new petrol and diesel vehicles, all eyes will be on the Government to take action if the UK’s targets are to be realistic.”
Most financed cars of 2024
Volkswagen Golf
Ford Focus
Ford Fiesta
Mercedes-Benz A Class
BMW 3 Series
Nissan Qashqai
BMW 1 Series
Land Rover Range Rover Evoque
Mercedes-Benz C Class
Audi A3
Vauxhall Corsa
Volkswagen Polo
