Ford Fiesta vs Audi A3: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Audi A3, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 3,268,615 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Audi A3 (84% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the small family car segment.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Audi A3
84%
MOT pass rate
784,288 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Audi A3
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Audi A3 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 84%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 16%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | +2 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195Winner | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 18-28 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 104,648 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 784,288 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 25 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2021 (94%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1997 (68%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Ford Fiesta Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Audi A3 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Fiesta
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Check a Specific Audi A3
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Ford Fiesta vs Audi A3 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Audi A3?
Based on MOT data, the Audi A3 is more reliable with a 84% pass rate, compared to 78% for the Ford Fiesta.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Audi A3 costs around £1,434. The Ford Fiesta is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Audi A3?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Audi A3 (84% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the small family car segment.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Audi A3 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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