What's the Best-selling Vehicle in the World? Ranking Car Sales

The Toyota Corolla is the world's best-selling car of all time, with over 50 million units sold globally since its debut in 1966. Known for its reliability, affordability, and low operating costs, it's a fixture in European markets, Asia, and Australia.

Even today, Corolla sales remain strong across all quarters. In the first quarter of the latest year tracked, the Corolla accounted for a significant share of Toyota's global figures, helping the brand retain its crown in the automotive industry.

The Ford F-Series—especially the F-150—has dominated the North American market for decades. It’s the top-selling truck in the U.S. and often ranks among the world’s top ten best-selling vehicles, thanks to strong sales in Canada, Mexico, and even parts of the Middle East.

Despite touting a small number of models compared to sedans and hatchbacks, its high per-unit value and brand loyalty keep it in bestseller territory.

This compact SUV continues to gain traction in global markets. The Toyota RAV4 reached record-breaking sales last year, becoming the top-selling SUV worldwide. Its popularity spans the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Australia.

The RAV4 blends the utility of a truck with the fuel efficiency of a car, making it a go-to for families and commuters alike.

For the first time, an electric vehicle cracked the global top rankings. The Tesla Model Y became the world’s best-selling vehicle in 2023, marking the first time an electric vehicle led global annual sales.

With rising sales across Europe, China, and North America, the Model Y's success marks a shift in the automotive industry toward electric vehicles. Tesla's ability to track demand and scale production rapidly has positioned it as a global force.

The Honda CR-V is another SUV that consistently ranks among the best selling cars worldwide. It's popular in Asia, the U.S., and Canada, known for its balance of comfort, cargo space, and fuel economy.

Over the years, the CR-V has adapted to market demands with hybrid versions and updated safety features, keeping sales strong through multiple model years.

Though not always at the top spot, the Nissan Sentra is a mainstay in international markets. It sees solid performance in Latin America and Asia but remains largely absent from the European market.

With a long history and steady yearly sales, the Sentra represents Nissan's push to remain competitive in a crowded compact segment.

Once the leader in European markets, the Volkswagen Golf continues to perform well despite increased competition from electric and hybrid models. It remains a cultural icon, especially in Germany and other EU countries.

While the Golf remains popular in Europe, recent global figures show it has fallen out of the top tiers of best-selling models.

The Silverado remains a top contender in the U.S. pickup truck segment. Alongside the GMC Sierra, it helps General Motors maintain a strong presence in North American sales rankings.

It consistently ranks just behind the Ford F-Series in pickup truck sales.

Hyundai's Tucson SUV is gaining momentum in global rankings. With a focus on tech features, safety, and affordability, the Tucson has grown in popularity across Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Hyundai’s investment in electric and hybrid variants has helped the brand keep up with market trends.

Mazda's CX-5 rounds out the list thanks to strong sales in Japan, the U.S., and Australia. It offers a refined driving experience at a competitive price, which appeals to both new buyers and returning Mazda fans.

Although its global sales volume is relatively small, the CX-5 remains Mazda’s best-selling model worldwide.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.