New car registrations data for Ireland for the first seven months of 2026 has been released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). The figures give us information on how the Irish new car market is doing and what are the most popular car brands and models.
The Irish new car market continued to grow in 2026 by 5.2% overall, with around 114,000 new cars registered so far this year.
Electric vehicle registrations have grown 61% year-on-year, with interest driven by unstable fuel prices, more visible charging infrastructure and grants like the Irish Government’s EV Scrappage Scheme. They now hold a record 26% of the Irish new car market, with the rest made up of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, diesel and petrol.
Ireland’s bestselling cars show a preference for SUVs and crossovers, with top brands including Toyota, Skoda, Hyundai and Kia. Here’s a list of the most popular new cars in Ireland in 2026:
1. Toyota Yaris Cross
The Toyota Yaris Cross has charged ahead in 2026 to take the top spot as Ireland’s bestselling car. Toyota’s small SUV has been an amazing success for the brand since it launched a few years ago. Its move to #1 shows Ireland’s changing preferences for efficient, small hybrid cars with chunky crossover styling. Sharing many components with the long-standing Toyota Yaris hatchback, the Yaris Cross offers a frugal hybrid powertrain at a good price, along with style, practicality and a compact size.
2. Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson was Ireland’s most popular car in 2025 and a consistent bestseller for the Korean car brand into 2026. The facelifted Tucson remains a solid choice for families and commuters alike looking for a stylish SUV that’s a good all-rounder for Irish roads. There’s plenty of choice in the range, from diesel to petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid.
3. Toyota Corolla
The second of two Toyotas in our list, the Toyota Corolla is a stalwart of Irish roads, and much-loved for its practicality and reliability. In recent years, it’s also added a lot more style to the mix and its fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain is one of the best around in a family car. Available as a hatchback, saloon or estate, there really is a Corolla for everyone and that’s why it continues to impress in 2026.
4. Skoda Octavia
The Octavia is a frequent visitor to the bestselling cars in Ireland. It still manages to offer good value in the market, while being exceptionally spacious compared to traditional compact hatchbacks. There are a number of trim levels available and the choice of well-proven petrol or diesel engines.
5. Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage holds firm as one of the top choices in the compact SUV segment for Irish buyers in 2026. It’s been a hit for many years, and the new one is the most stylish yet. Recently facelifted, it offers distinctive design, practicality and good levels of equipment. It’s competitively priced for a family SUV, with plenty of choice: diesel, hybrid and plug-in hybrid.
6. Skoda Kodiaq
The Skoda Kodiaq has climbed the ranks in 2026 to become Ireland’s sixth bestselling car. That’s no mean feat but the Kodiaq’s enduring popularity among Irish motorists is hard to beat. Available as a five- or seven-seater, there are several powertrains to choose from including diesel, petrol and plug-in hybrid. It’s a sensible family car with plenty of space on offer, while being highly desirable for comfort and many practical features that make it ideal for Irish families in 2026.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
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