Ford Fiesta vs Audi A4: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Audi A4, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,975,862 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Audi A4 (83% 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 A4
83%
MOT pass rate
491,535 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Audi A4
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Audi A4 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 83%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 17%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | +1 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195Winner | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 25-35 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 2.1L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 120,108 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 491,535 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 27 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2021 (96%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%)Winner | 1995 (61%) |
| 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 A4 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Fiesta
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Check a Specific Audi A4
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Ford Fiesta vs Audi A4 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Audi A4?
Based on MOT data, the Audi A4 is more reliable with a 83% 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 A4 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 A4?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Audi A4 (83% 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 A4 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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