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Tetyana Yermolenko
Correspondent
Top 10 most popular cars of 2025 in Ukraine – what to choose?
The Ukrainian automobile market continues to develop actively, despite difficult conditions. What car brands are in greatest demand among Ukrainians in 2025 and why did these models become sales leaders? We analyze the most current trends in the automobile market on the Delo.ua portal.
The choice of a car for Ukrainian drivers depends on many factors: price, reliability, availability of spare parts, fuel consumption and service. Modern buyers increasingly prefer practical solutions that combine quality, economy and durability. Analysis of sales and registrations shows clear trends in the preferences of Ukrainian car owners.
The undisputed leaders of the Ukrainian car market
Toyota holds the first position in the popularity rating due to its legendary reliability and economy. The Camry, Corolla and RAV4 models have become a benchmark of quality for Ukrainian drivers. The Japanese brand offers minimal maintenance costs, high residual value and a wide network of service centers throughout the country. Toyota Corolla demonstrates fuel consumption of only 6.2 liters per 100 km, which is especially important given today's fuel prices.
Renault takes second place thanks to the popularity of budget models Logan, Sandero and Duster crossover. The French manufacturer managed to adapt its cars to Ukrainian realities: high ground clearance for bad roads, spacious interior and affordable prices. Renault Duster remains the most popular crossover in Ukraine with a price of $16,000 and fuel consumption of 7.8 liters per 100 km.
Volkswagen represents German quality for relatively reasonable money. The Jetta, Golf and Tiguan crossover models are in stable demand among Ukrainians who appreciate build quality and advanced technologies. The German brand offers small-displacement turbocharged engines that combine power and economy.
Hyundai and KIA represent Korean quality with a long warranty of up to 7 years. These brands are actively conquering the Ukrainian market due to stylish design, rich equipment and attractive prices. Hyundai Tucson and KIA Sportage have become popular crossovers in the segment from $22,000 to $25,000.
Practicality above all else: why Ukrainians choose these brands
Skoda takes fifth place thanks to its practical approach to automotive design. The Czech brand offers spacious interiors, large trunks and reliable engines. The Octavia has become a popular sedan for family use, combining European quality with an affordable price from $21,000.
Nissan represents Japanese reliability for a variety of budgets. The Sentra in the mid-size segment and the Qashqai among crossovers demonstrate the optimal price-performance ratio. The Japanese brand is especially popular with taxi drivers due to its low maintenance costs.
Ford, the American brand, remains in the top 10 thanks to its diverse lineup. The Focus, Mondeo and Kuga crossover offer powerful engines and spacious interiors at reasonable prices.
Mazda attracts Ukrainian buyers with its sporty character and high-quality assembly. The CX-5 has become a popular crossover among drivers who appreciate driving dynamics and stylish design.
Peugeot closes the top 10 with French charm and innovative solutions. The 308 and 2008 demonstrate a modern design and economical engines, although the service network in Ukraine is less developed compared to the leaders of the rating.
Key selection factors and cost-effectiveness of ownership
When choosing a car, the Ukrainian buyer is guided primarily by practical considerations. Reliability and durability come first due to the need to minimize repair and maintenance costs. High fuel prices force us to pay attention to the efficiency of engines. The availability of spare parts and quality service throughout the country has become critically important, especially after 2022.
Maintenance costs vary significantly between brands. The Toyota Camry costs about $600 per year to maintain at 20,000 km, making it the most economical in the mid-size class. The Renault Duster costs just $450 per year, confirming its reputation as a budget and practical crossover. The Skoda Octavia costs about $520 per year, offering European comfort for a reasonable price.
Premium German brands like Audi and BMW remain niche due to high service costs of $800 to $950 per year. Such costs are justified only by wealthy buyers who are willing to pay for prestige and advanced technology.
Technological progress at affordable prices
Modern cars, even in the budget segment, are getting technologies that were only recently available in premium models. Active safety systems, multimedia systems with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and rearview cameras are becoming standard even for cars costing up to $15,000.
Hyundai and KIA are actively introducing hybrid technologies in affordable models. The Elantra Hybrid offers fuel consumption of only 4.8 liters per 100 km without a significant increase in price compared to the regular version. Such solutions are especially relevant for Ukrainian drivers who face high fuel prices every day.
Small-displacement turbocharged engines have become a popular solution for combining power and economy. The Volkswagen Group, including Skoda, is leading the way in implementing such technologies. The 1.4-liter turbo engine in the Octavia produces 150 hp while consuming just 6.5 liters per 100 km.
Regional characteristics and future trends
Absolute leaders in popularity:
- Toyota is the leader in reliability (Camry, Corolla, RAV4)
- Renault – budget segment (Logan, Sandero, Duster)
- Volkswagen – German quality (Jetta, Golf, Tiguan)
The Ukrainian market shows regional differences in preferences. In large cities, compact sedans and hatchbacks are more popular, while in the regions, crossovers with high ground clearance are preferred. Western Ukraine traditionally focuses on European brands, while eastern regions trust Japanese and Korean manufacturers more.
Electric vehicles remain a niche segment due to underdeveloped charging infrastructure and high prices. However, growing interest in environmentally friendly technologies and government support for electric vehicles may change the situation in the coming years.
Practical advice for future buyers
When choosing a car in Ukraine, consider the specifics of the local market. The presence of official dealers in your region is critical for quality service and warranty coverage. Check the availability of original spare parts and their cost – this will significantly affect the cost of ownership.
Don't forget about insurance and car registration. Popular brands have lower insurance rates due to better safety records and lower repair costs. Toyota and Renault have the lowest insurance payout ratios among popular brands.
Ukrainian drivers are becoming more knowledgeable and demanding of car quality. Brands that offer the optimal combination of reliability, economy and service maintain their leading positions in the market. The popularity rating reflects the pragmatic approach of buyers who choose time-tested solutions instead of fashionable novelties.
