Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Qashqai: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Nissan Qashqai, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 3,488,788 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Nissan Qashqai comes out slightly ahead with a 79% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Nissan Qashqai has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Nissan Qashqai
79%
MOT pass rate
1,004,461 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Qashqai
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Nissan Qashqai |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 79%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 21%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | -3 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,195 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.5L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 80,988 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 1,004,461 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 16 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2021 (94%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%)Winner | 2006 (64%) |
| 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)
Nissan Qashqai Known Issues
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Fiesta
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Check a Specific Nissan Qashqai
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Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Qashqai FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Nissan Qashqai?
Based on MOT data, the Nissan Qashqai is more reliable with a 79% 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 Nissan Qashqai costs around £1,195. 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 Nissan Qashqai?
The Nissan Qashqai comes out slightly ahead with a 79% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Nissan Qashqai has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Nissan Qashqai Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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