- As nations compete on football’s biggest stage, Leasing Options has analysed the best-selling cars in every FIFA World Cup 2026 country to see how automotive preferences compare around the world.
- The study comes amid heightened interest in the tournament, with Google searches for “FIFA World Cup 2026” up 550% in the UK over the past year.
- The analysis found the Toyota Hilux was the best-selling vehicle in six World Cup nations, more than any other model in the study.
Toyota Hilux Dominates Across Nations
The Toyota Hilux was the best-selling vehicle in six World Cup nations: South Africa, Paraguay, Argentina, Jordan, Ghana, and Panama. Its resilience appears to resonate across wildly different terrains and cultures, making it the unofficial workhorse of the tournament.
Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer LEASING OPTIONS comments, “The Toyota Hilux stands out because it appeals to drivers in a wide range of markets. Rightfully labelled on Top Gear as the Indestructible Hilux, the durability is undeniable. This reputation has been demonstrated as many nations rely on it as their top vehicle.
“What’s particularly interesting is that countries with very different driving conditions and lifestyles have arrived at the same choice. It highlights the broad appeal of vehicles that offer practicality and dependability.”
European Unity Through Skoda
The Škoda Octavia takes second place, topping sales in four European qualifiers: Czechia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Austria, and Croatia.
“Europe may be divided on football loyalties, but it’s surprisingly aligned on practical, value-driven motoring. The Octavia’s success across several European countries reflects the continued demand for practical family cars that offer good value for money. It’s a car that’s as close to being the jack of all trades as could be. There’s everything from large interior spaces, relatively low running costs, and easy upkeep.”
The Renault Clio is a favourite amongst two World Cup favourites
The Renault Clio claims the number-one spot in France and Portugal, showing its enduring appeal in Western Europe.
Mike adds, “The Renault Clio has been a familiar sight on European roads for decades, and its continued popularity in France and Portugal shows how important affordability and efficiency remain for many drivers.
“Smaller hatchbacks continue to play an important role in urban areas where running costs, fuel economy, and ease of driving are key considerations.
Predictable winners
Some results reflected long-standing national preferences, with several countries favouring domestic manufacturers or vehicles well-suited to local driving conditions.
| Competing Nation | Car Model |
| Germany | Volkswagen Golf |
| United States | Ford F-Series |
| Japan | Honda N-Box |
| Qatar | Toyota Land Cruiser |
Mike explains, “While some countries shared the same best-selling vehicles, others showed strong loyalty to models that have become closely associated with their domestic market.
“It’s interesting that Germany’s preference for the Volkswagen Golf, the United States’ continued demand for the Ford F-Series, and Japan’s popularity of the Honda N-Box all reflect vehicle types that suit local driving habits and consumer preferences. In Qatar, the Land Cruiser’s reputation for capability has helped make it a natural fit for local conditions.”
Kia leads in model diversity
When analysing the number of unique winning models, Kia tops the list with five different models winning in World Cup nations, which is the broadest spread of any brand. tea
| Competing Nation | Car Model |
| Iraq | Kia Frontier |
| Colombia | Kia K3 |
| Tunisia | Kia Picanto |
| Ecuador | Kia Soluto |
| South Korea | Kia Sorento |
Mike notes, “Kia’s results are particularly interesting because topping the charts in five completely different markets is one thing, but with five completely different models is another. The manufacturer has built a broad range and tailored it to individual markets rather than a single global bestseller, making it a diverse player across nations.
Do the best football nations have the best taste in automotive design?
While football success and car-buying habits aren’t exactly related, the results do throw up some interesting contrasts. Being a footballing powerhouse doesn’t necessarily mean a country favours a premium car.
Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, with a combined 10 World Cup titles, all favour vehicles such as the Fiat Strada and Toyota Hilux.
Elsewhere, smaller football nations like Belgium and Sweden favour premium best-sellers, including the BMW X1 and Volvo XC60, respectively.
Summarising the wider findings, Mike says, “One of the most interesting findings from the study is how often practical vehicles come out on top. Many of the best-selling models are chosen for their reliability, affordability, and suitability for everyday use.
“While there are some regional differences, the results suggest that drivers around the world tend to prioritise similar qualities when buying a vehicle. Value for money and dependability appear to matter more than prestige alone.”