Ford Fiesta vs Kia Picanto: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Kia Picanto, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,795,907 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Kia Picanto (80% 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
Kia Picanto
80%
MOT pass rate
311,580 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Kia Picanto
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Kia Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 80%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 20%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | -2 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195Winner | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.6L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 mi | 52,142 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 311,580 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 19 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2022 (94%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2005 (66%)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)
Kia Picanto 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 Kia Picanto
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Ford Fiesta vs Kia Picanto FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Kia Picanto?
Based on MOT data, the Kia Picanto is more reliable with a 80% 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 Kia Picanto 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 Kia Picanto?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Kia Picanto (80% 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
Kia Picanto Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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