UK buyers are increasingly favouring smaller, more fuel efficient cars in order to benefit from lower taxes, prices and fuel consumption, according to online car retailer OneSwoop.

It puts forward as evidence its top 10 most popular cars in August 2001. The Toyota Yaris tops the order list, accounting for 15% of August sales with the diesel derivatives of the popular Volkswagen Golf appearing second, while Peugeot's 206 also featured in the top ten list.

Andy Nowell, OneSwoop's head of marketing, said: “Although sales of our prestige brands such as BMW, Mercedes and Jaguar continue to be strong, over recent weeks we have seen a greater demand for both smaller and more economical cars from our extensive range of models.

“A combination of concerns over a recession, benefits of lower taxes and fuel economy have been major factors in this trend, prompting many motorists to give serious thought to choosing a new car. Many drivers are also realising that more economical cars need not be any less rewarding to drive – which is why with excellent savings and short delivery times, the new Volkswagen Golf Diesels have been such a hit with our customers.

“We believe orders for the most popular models have also been strengthened by the launch of our new website in early August, which is proving very popular with consumers who also appear to be taking advantage of our competitive finance and trade-in facilities in greater numbers” added Nowell.

OneSwoop.com's top 10 best selling cars in August 2001:
1. Toyota Yaris
2. Volkswagen Golf
3. Audi TT Coupe
4. BMW Series 3
5. Ford Focus
6. Alfa Romeo 147
7. Vauxhall Zafira
8. Lexus IS200
9. BMW 5 Series
10. Peugeot 206.