As of 2021, the Toyota Corolla is considered the most popular car in the world in terms of sales.
The most popular car in the world, measured by recent annual sales, is the Tesla Model Y. In 2024, the Tesla Model Y topped global car sales with approximately 1.09 million units sold, narrowly beating the Toyota Corolla, which sold about 1.08 million units that year[2][4].
Historically, the Toyota Corolla holds the record as the best-selling car model of all time, with over 50 million units sold since 1966[3]. It has been a global favorite due to its reliability, affordability, and quality, maintaining consistent popularity over decades. However, in terms of most recent yearly sales, the Tesla Model Y has taken the lead, reflecting a shift in consumer preference towards electric vehicles.
Other notable recent top sellers include the Toyota RAV4 (over 1 million units in 2024), Ford F-Series trucks, and Honda CR-V, demonstrating strong demand for SUVs and light trucks globally[2][4][7].
| Rank | Car Model | Sales in 2024 (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tesla Model Y | 1.09 million | Best-selling car model in 2024; leading electric SUV globally[2][4][7] |
| 2 | Toyota Corolla | 1.08 million | World’s all-time best-selling car; consistent reliability and affordability[2][3] |
| 3 | Toyota RAV4 | 1.02 million | Top-selling SUV worldwide; especially strong in North America[2][4] |
| 4 | Ford F-Series | 900,000 | Best-selling light truck in the U.S., less popular globally[2][4] |
In conclusion, while the Toyota Corolla remains the most popular car ever sold historically, the Tesla Model Y is currently the most popular car in the world by annual sales as of 2024, marking a significant rise in electric vehicle dominance in the global automotive market[2][4][7].