These Are the Top Ten Car Brands People Purchased in 2025

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They say it’s important to study the past so you don’t repeat the future, or something like that. By looking back at all the popular car sales for the last year — during 2025 specifically — we can start to understand which brands are ahead going into 2026. Why? Well, because that might give you a better idea of what’s worthwhile, more valuable and more reliable when you are getting ready to buy a new vehicle. It’s also just fun to see what people are buying most. Shall we?

This information comes from data gathered by USA Today, which also has an interesting outlook on the stats if you want to hear what automakers have to say about it all.

1. General Motors

GM made an official announcement about its sales lead, also naming Buick as part of its overall 2025 strategy. But it also made clear that the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra had their “best combined sales in 20 years.” GM also led the SUV market with its tech-forward, versatile offerings.

2. Toyota

Toyota sales were up quite a bit by the fourth quarter of 2025, with electric vehicle sales up considerably, as well. That could be due to the end of the year rush as people tried to get ahead of the expiring federal credits. Top vehicles for the year include the GR Corolla, 4Runner Hybrid, Rav4 and Tacoma.

3. Ford

According to the company, Ford sales outperformed the industry for the 10th consecutive month in December 2025. Not too shabby. Some highlights from the brand include the F-Series trucks, named America’s best-selling truck for the year. Hybrid vehicles, the Ford Explorer, and Ford Bronco all had a great sales year, as well.

4. Tesla

It’s not surprising that Tesla is on the list, but may be surprising it’s relatively high. People love the brand apparently. Tesla says it produced over 430K vehicles and delivered just under 420K. Top sellers for the year were the Model Y and Model 3.

5. Honda

Honda says it had the best sales year since 2021 despite market challenges, which is pretty impressive to say the least. That’s even with microchip and supply shortages reducing sales in the latter part of the year. Honda’s top sellers include the CR-V SUV, Civic in all variants, HR-V and the new Prologue EV.

6. Stellantis

Another brand that reported a profit increase year-over-year is Stellantis. Jeep, Ram, Dodge, and Chrysler were all notable sales names this year. Jeff Kommor, head of U.S. retail sales, says the brand made progress “with a diversified powertrain lineup,” like the HEMI-powered Ram 1400 or the Jeep Cherokee hybrid. The Ram light duty pick up was one of the best sellers for 2025.

7. Nissan

Thanks to the updated Rogue, as well as Kicks and Pathfinder SUVs, Nissan had standout sales this year. A large focus on trucks and SUVs overall secure the brand’s spot on top list though it will be interesting to see how it does in the year ahead. Murano and Armada were also big hitters last year, probably for growing families.

8. Hyundai

While not super high on the list, Hyundai still secured a spot and had a great year. In a press release, Randy Parker, CEO and President, specifically called out 2025 as the “fifth straight year of record retail sales.” What they’ve dubbed the ‘5 for 5 in 2025 mission’. Sounds a little overzealous, but hey, it’s always fun to celebrate good numbers. Top models include the Hyundai Tucson, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata, and Palisade.

9. Kia

Long gone are those swanky hamsters, long live the sleek, stylish modern Kia. The brand continues its upward momentum with the eighth consecutive year of sales growth. 2025 is also the highest ever U.S. market share for the company. The Kia Sportage, Carnival, Telluride, and K4 are standouts.

10. Volkswagen

Volkswagen actually reported negative growth and sales results for 2025, with quarter four sales down nearly 20% year-over-year. Yet, it still managed to land at spot number ten in the top ten list. Top sellers for the year are the Tiguan, Atlas, and Taos, with the Jetta a notable best-seller in the cars category.

What Do We Know from This Info

Sales volumes still continued to grow throughout the year for most automakers, albeit modestly. That means people were still buying cars with an emphasis on SUVs, trucks, and hybrids over EVS. Tariffs and high interest rates increased prices, with potential price increases coming because of major chip shortages.

That also highlights the importance of keeping your vehicles well-maintained, particularly repairing problems early to prevent serious downtime. You don’t want to find yourself needing a brand new or used vehicle in the middle of a heavy shortage and price hikes. If you haven’t already, you might consider grabbing a diagnostic scanner to help keep up with maintenance on your vehicles.

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