Best-Selling Cars in Ireland in 2024

As 2024 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 2025. 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 2024 

The Irish car market in 2024 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 2023, models like the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota Corolla dominated the market, and this trend has largely continued into 2024. 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 Toyota Yaris Cross or Skoda Octavia 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 2023 and the first three quarters of 2024, 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 2024, 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 2024

1. Hyundai Tucson 

The Hyundai Tucson continues to dominate the market with 4,679 units sold in 2024 so far, up from 3,940 in 2023. 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 Corolla 

The Toyota Corolla remains a close second with 4,247 units sold in 2024, a slight increase from 3,817 units in 2023. Its hybrid variant is especially popular, offering Irish drivers the benefit of improved fuel economy without compromising on performance. Compact yet spacious, the Corolla strikes a balance between being an eco-friendly city car and a reliable option for longer drives.

3. Skoda Octavia 

The Skoda Octavia has solidified its place as one of Ireland’s top-selling models, with 4,014 units sold so far in 2024, compared to 3,220 units in 2023. 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 3,379 units sold in 2024 compared to 2,746 in 2023. 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 3,083 units sold in 2024, 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 2023 (3,442 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 2024

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 – 4,679 units
2. Kia Sportage – 3,379 units
3. Toyota Rav4 – 3,083 units

Best Selling Hatchbacks

Hatchbacks continue to thrive, particularly among city drivers. Their compact size makes them easier to manoeuvre and park, while their excellent fuel economy is a major draw for drivers who want to keep running costs low. The Toyota Corolla and Skoda Octavia lead the pack in this segment, offering excellent performance and practicality in a compact form.

1. Toyota Corolla – 4,247 units
2. Skoda Octavia – 4,014 units
3. Toyota Yaris – 2,175 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 Corolla – 4,247 units
2. Kia Sportage – 3,379 units
3. Toyota Rav4 – 3,083 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. Toyota Yaris – 2,175 units
2. Volkswagen Golf – 1,950 units
3. Skoda Fabia – 1,730 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 – 4,679 units
2. Skoda Octavia – 4,014 units
3. Volkswagen Passat – 2,345 units

Quarterly Sales Table for 2024

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 2024

Q2: April - June 2024

Q3: July - September 2024

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

Conclusion: Drive Smart and Stay Covered 

As Ireland moves into 2025, the range of best-selling cars—from reliable hatchbacks like the Toyota Corolla 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 2025!