What will 2029’s best-seller look like?

Recently the UK government announced it will ban the sale of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles by 2035. This drastic decision could completely reshape the market but keep in mind a lot can happen in 15 years. The next administration could delay or completely reverse the decision. And, while SUVs are undeniably gaining ground, they’re largely conquering territory dominated by large saloons and estates, like the Mondeo.

While it’s difficult to predict the future, it’s not too far-fetched to assume the UK’s best-selling car in 2029 will still be a Fiesta- or Focus-sized hatchback. It’s evidently a format that works well for a vast majority of motorists, sheer luck hasn’t kept Ford at the top of the chart for 20 years, and low-riding models remain more efficient than SUVs so carmakers have more incentives to sell them than ever before. PICTURE: 2020 Hyundai i20 sketch