Dacia Sandero vs Suzuki Swift: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Dacia Sandero and Suzuki Swift, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 371,492 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Suzuki Swift comes out slightly ahead with an 81% MOT pass rate versus 80% for the Dacia Sandero. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Suzuki Swift has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Dacia Sandero
80%
MOT pass rate
163,256 tests
Suzuki Swift
81%
MOT pass rate
208,236 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Dacia Sandero vs Suzuki Swift
| Category | Dacia Sandero | Suzuki Swift |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 80% | 81%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 20% | 19%Winner |
| vs All-Model Avg | -2 pts | -1 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,270Winner | £1,512 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 3-10 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £800-£1,500 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.0L | 1.3L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | City car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 48,223 miWinner | 63,199 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 163,256 | 208,236 |
| Model Years | 9 years | 26 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (91%) | 2020 (95%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 2014 (73%)Winner | 2006 (67%) |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Dacia Sandero: Typical Issues to Check
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Suzuki Swift: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Dacia Sandero vs Suzuki Swift FAQ
Can I compare a Dacia Sandero and Suzuki Swift by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Dacia Sandero or Suzuki Swift?
The Suzuki Swift has the higher MOT pass rate, 81% compared to 80% for the Dacia Sandero (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Dacia Sandero or Suzuki Swift?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Dacia Sandero costs around £1,270 in fuel, while the Suzuki Swift costs around £1,512 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). The Dacia Sandero is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Dacia Sandero or Suzuki Swift?
The Suzuki Swift comes out slightly ahead with an 81% MOT pass rate versus 80% for the Dacia Sandero. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Suzuki Swift has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Dacia Sandero Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Suzuki Swift Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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