Ford Fiesta vs Land Rover Discovery: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Land Rover Discovery, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,788,221 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Land Rover Discovery (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
Land Rover Discovery
83%
MOT pass rate
303,894 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Land Rover Discovery
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Land Rover Discovery |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | £1,792 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 30-42 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 2.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | ED, Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Large car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 129,448 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 303,894 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 32 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2020 (94%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1993 (74%)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)
Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery
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Ford Fiesta vs Land Rover Discovery FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Land Rover Discovery?
Based on MOT data, the Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery costs around £1,792. 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 Land Rover Discovery?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Land Rover Discovery (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
Land Rover Discovery Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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