For the sixth year running, the BMW 3 Series has topped the Auto Trader list for the most searched for car.

Jon Quirk, Auto Trader's Editor-in-Chief, said, "The BMW 3 series continues its dominance as the most searched for car on Auto Trader, while the overall popularity for premium vehicles continues. This is due, in part, to an expansive new car portfolio and the availability of low rate finance. "

The VW Golf came second followed by the Mercedes Benz C class and then the Ford Focus. Small family cars have also been a popular choice in 2016. The excellent levels of in-car technology, safety and refinement seem to be a real hit for buyers.

Making a prediction for 2017, Quirk said, "2017 is going to be the year of the small car. The small car league table will see a host of new competition - the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Citroen C3 and Seat Ibiza will all have brand new models in 2017, not to mention the totally reinvented Nissan Micra."