UK drivers are going for smaller cars, as factors like fuel economy and a new company car tax scheme influence buying decisions. The supermini segment has grown by more than 4.5 per cent over the last five years as buyers increasingly switch to smaller vehicles, according to Motor Industry FACTS – 2002, just published by the SMMT.


Small cars now come with more standard equipment and safety features, with an array of extras that would have previously been reserved for larger executive models. Air bags, anti-lock brakes, CD-players and air conditioning are now the norm, making these cars true ‘superminis’.


Commenting on the change in buying habits, SMMT Chief Executive Christopher Macgowan said: ‘There is an incredible amount of competition in this segment and consumers are benefiting from this. Practically all the volume manufacturers have a supermini model in their range and the level of equipment fitted as standard is now quite phenomenal. The barriers to smaller motoring have been removed and buyers have recognised this.’



Top five selling superminis in the UK in 2001





















  1. Ford Fiesta

98,221

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

·  Peugeot 206


97,887


·  Vauxhall Corsa


93,792


·  Renault Clio


79,843


·  Fiat Punto


59,573