Kia Sportage tops Carwow's most searched new cars list once again

The Kia Sportage has retained its crown as the most searched and configured new car on Carwow for the second year running, cementing its status as a firm favourite among car buyers.

Family SUVs dominated the 2024 rankings, with the Hyundai Tucson – built on the same platform as the Sportage – securing second place, followed by the Volkswagen Tiguan in third.

The Tesla Model Y emerged as the highest-placed battery electric vehicle (BEV) in the overall top 10, ranking fourth. Meanwhile, the Renault Clio took fifth place, boasting a remarkable 113% increase in configurations compared to 2023, demonstrating renewed interest in the compact hatchback segment.

Top 10 Most Configured Cars on Carwow in 2024

1. Kia Sportage
2. Hyundai Tucson
3. Volkswagen Tiguan
4. Tesla Model Y
5. Renault Clio
6. MG4 EV
7. Volvo XC40
8. Volkswagen Golf
9. Toyota Yaris
10. Volkswagen Polo

Carwow also revealed the most configured BEVs for 2024, with the Tesla Model Y once again leading the pack. While the Tesla Model 3 slipped to third place, the MG4 surged into second, demonstrating growing interest in more affordable electric options. The Volvo EX30 saw a two-fold increase in configurations year-on-year, earning it fourth place, followed by the Polestar 2 in fifth.

Top 10 Most Configured BEVs on Carwow in 2024

1. Tesla Model Y
2. MG4
3. Tesla Model 3
4. Volvo EX30
5. Polestar 2
6. Hyundai Ioniq 5
7. Audi Q4 e-tron
8. Cupra Born
9. MG ZS
10. Kia EV6

Philipp Sayler von Amende, Carwow chief commercial officer said: “Carwow configuration data is a strong indicator of future purchase intent, so it is encouraging that these figures are rising - particularly for EVs - despite the obvious challenges in the new car market. 

“The increased investment from OEMs appears to be effective in stimulating EV demand and we are seeing a corresponding uplift in configurations and sales of alternatively fuelled vehicles on the platform. In 2024, EV configurations were up 28%, while petrol configurations were down 13% on 2023 figures. 

“While these are promising signs, there is still a long way to go before private sales are at the level required to meet the ZEV mandate. Significant Government investment in incentives and infrastructure will be crucial to making EVs an affordable and practical ownership option.”