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Following the herd may not be such a bad idea in uncertain financial times, and there are few surprises among the top-selling models in the UK this year.

What distinguishes all of the top five are the common attributes of size, practicality, economy, reliability and easy access to a strong dealership and servicing network.

Here are the chart toppers so far in 2011:

1. Ford Fiesta
A second-to-none network of dealers with economy and driving pleasure in a compact easy-to-use package. Priced from just £9,995, the Fiesta also represents excellent value for money.

2. Ford Focus
The Ford Focus is the natural step-up from the Fiesta, sharing its design style and fun handling, but with added space for passengers and occupants and a smoother drive over long distances.

The new generation Focus builds on the previous model's success, adding genuinely attractive high-tech driver options with an even better handling chassis. Impossible to fault.

3. Volkswagen Golf
Yet another class act from the German marque whose sixth generation Volkswagen Golf carries the banner as the market-leader in combining build quality, practicality and style.

The Volkswagen Golf is a car which offers years of trouble-free service together with an image of rock solid street credibility. It's available with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, offering excellent economy and performance.

4. Vauxhall Corsa
Vauxhall will not let Ford take all the honours and the Vauxhall Corsa remains a solid favourite.

It combines easy driving in the town and country together with light steering, good visibility and an excellent turning circle for tight city roads. Its longevity means niggles have all been ironed out and parts are plentiful to keep maintenance costs low.

5. Vauxhall Astra
Still a huge favourite in the company car park for fleet owners, the Vauxhall Astra also makes for a solid family choice.

The latest model was released in 2009 and keeps pace with the competition boasting more aggressive looks and a classy interior with selectable mood lighting options and excellent build quality.

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