Best-Selling Cars in Ireland in 2025

As 2025 unfolds, Ireland's automotive market is witnessing significant trends and shifts. From the steady rise of hybrid vehicles to the continued dominance of SUVs, Irish drivers have more options than ever before. In this post, we’ll explore the best-selling cars in Ireland, compare year-on-year sales data, and provide insight into what to expect in 2026. Whether you're in search of a reliable family SUV or a practical compact car for city driving, this guide will keep you updated on the latest trends in Ireland’s car market.

A Glimpse into the Irish Automotive Market in 2025 

The Irish car market in 2025 shows a clear preference for SUVs and hybrid vehicles, which blend performance with fuel efficiency. Consumers have been gravitating towards these models due to their practicality and cost-effectiveness. While hybrid technology is gaining popularity, traditional petrol and diesel cars still hold a strong position in the market, especially for buyers who value familiarity and lower upfront costs. 

SUVs remain the top choice for many families and professionals, offering the space, comfort, and safety features that suit both urban and rural driving. Irish drivers continue to favour brands like Hyundai, Toyota, and Skoda, which have developed a solid reputation for producing reliable, well-rounded vehicles. Additionally, compact cars are still a go-to choice for city drivers who need to navigate tight spaces and want to keep their fuel costs low. 

In 2024, models like the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota Corolla dominated the market, and this trend has largely continued into 2025. However, we’ve also seen slight shifts in preferences, with new models making their way into the top ranks. 

For first-time buyers, compact and reliable models like the Volkswagen Golf or Toyota Yaris are preferred. These cars offer ease of handling, fuel efficiency, and lower running costs, making them ideal for urban living. For more information on cars suited for new drivers, check out our guide to the best cars for first-time drivers. 

Source for the Stats 

We compiled the list of top-selling cars based on data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Motor section, which is updated every month. By analysing sales figures from both 2024 and the first three quarters (include October) of 2025, we offer a comprehensive look at the best-selling vehicles in Ireland this year. For this post, we’ve organised the top cars sold and compared them with last year’s performance to give you a sense of the market’s evolution. 

While these rankings reflect the trends up to Q3 2025, it's important to note that Q4 sales could still shift the standings slightly as we approach the end of the year. Year-on-year data reveals which models have gained or lost favour with Irish drivers, offering a clearer picture of what’s driving consumer decisions. 

Read More: 7 Benefits of Driving an Electric Car in Ireland

Top 5 Best Selling Cars Overall in Ireland 2025

1. Hyundai Tucson 

Even with the decline, the Hyundai Tucson is still Ireland's best-selling car in 2025 so far, based on industry reports. The Tucson continues to dominate the market with 4,276 units sold in 2025 so far, down from 4,844 in 2024. Its combination of reliability, space, and modern features makes it an ideal choice for families. Known for its comfortable ride and impressive tech features, the Tucson remains a strong contender for drivers looking for a versatile SUV.

2. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross is a close second, with 4,247 units sold in 2025, marking a significant increase of over 1,000 units from last year. This model combines hybrid efficiency, SUV practically, and compact dimensions in a way that strongly appeals to Irish buyers. It fits perfectly with current market trends, where demand for electrified vehicles is rising but drivers still want something practical for everyday use. 

3. Skoda Octavia 

The Skoda Octavia has solidified its place as one of Ireland’s top-selling models, with 3,342 units sold so far in 2025, compared to 4,207 units in 2024. Known for its spacious interiors and robust build quality, the Octavia is favoured by families and professionals alike. With excellent fuel efficiency and a wide range of features, it’s a practical choice for those who need a bit more room but still want a compact design.

4. Kia Sportage 

Kia’s midsize SUV, the Sportage, continues to be a popular pick, with 3,099 units sold in 2025, compared to 3,540 in 2024. Its blend of safety features, practicality, and fuel efficiency makes it an attractive option for families. The Sportage’s modern design and hybrid option have made it a top choice for those who want a reliable SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or economy.

5. Toyota Rav4 

With 2,870 units sold in 2025, the Toyota Rav4 remains a strong contender in the SUV market. Its off-road capabilities and hybrid variant make it a top choice for adventurous families who need a versatile vehicle. While its sales numbers are down slightly from 2024 (3,241 units), the Rav4 continues to be a reliable option for those looking for a sturdy SUV that can handle various terrains.

Car Sales by Segment in 2025

Best Selling SUVs

SUVs have remained the dominant vehicle type in Ireland, with more than half of the cars sold this year being SUVs. Their elevated driving positions, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features make them especially popular among families and individuals who value versatility and security.

1. Hyundai Tucson – 4,276 units
2. Toyota Yaris Cross – 3,377 units
3. Kia Sportage – 3,099 units

Best Selling Hatchbacks

Although the Skoda Octavia and Toyota Corolla remain among Ireland's most recognised hatchbacks, these hatchbacks have seen a decline in sales in 2025 compared to 2024. Buyers are increasingly favouring SUVs and hybrid crossovers, which offer higher driving positions, practicality, and hybrid efficiency. Despite the decline, these hatchbacks continue to hold a strong position within their segment due to their brand reputation and familiarity. 

1. Skoda Octavia – 3,342 units
2. Toyota Corolla – 2,679 units
3. Volkswagen Golf  – 2,353 units

Best Selling Hybrids

Hybrid cars continue to grow in popularity as Irish drivers become more environmentally conscious and seek better fuel efficiency. These top-selling hybrid models provide a balance between traditional fuel-powered engines and electric technology, making them ideal for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying a versatile driving experience. Their low emissions and efficient fuel consumption make hybrids an increasingly attractive option in both city and rural environments.

1. Toyota Yaris Cross – 3,377 units
2. Kia Sportage – 3,099 units
3. Toyota Rav4 – 2,870 units

Best Selling Compact Cars

Compact cars remain the vehicle of choice for city drivers and first-time buyers due to their smaller size, ease of handling, and excellent fuel economy. These top three compact models offer great manoeuvrability and practicality, making them perfect for urban environments. Whether it’s navigating tight streets or parking in small spaces, compact cars are designed to be convenient and efficient for everyday use.

1. Volkswagen Golf – 2,353 units
2. Toyota Yaris – 1,892 units
3. Volkswagen Polo – 1,420 units

Best Selling Midsize Car

Midsize cars offer a comfortable driving experience, balancing space and efficiency for families and professionals alike. The Hyundai Tucson and Skoda Octavia lead the way in this category, offering generous interior space and a range of modern features. These vehicles are ideal for longer drives and provide excellent value for money with their mix of practicality and comfort.

1. Hyundai Tucson – 4,276 units
2. Skoda Octavia – 3,342 units
3. Toyota RAV4 – 2,870 units

Quarterly Sales Table for 2025

Here’s a breakdown of the top-selling cars in Ireland by quarter, providing insight into the most popular models throughout the year: 

Q1: January - March 2025

Q2: April - June 2025

Q3: July - October 2025

These quarterly breakdowns highlight the Hyundai Tucson’s continued dominance, with the Toyota Yaris Cross and Skoda Octavia remaining strong contenders throughout the year.

Conclusion: Drive Smart and Stay Covered 

As Ireland moves into 2026, the range of best-selling cars—from reliable hatchbacks like the Skoda Octavia to family-friendly SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson—reflects a broad spectrum of driver needs. Whether you're in search of an efficient city car or a spacious SUV, the options available cater to every type of driver. 

While choosing the right car is important, protecting it with the right insurance is equally crucial. AIG Car Insurance offers tailored coverage to suit your needs, whether you're driving a compact hatchback or a midsize SUV. Check out our tips on essential car safety features and the best time to buy a car to make sure you're fully informed when purchasing your next vehicle. 

Here’s to safe, smart driving in 2026!