Ford Fiesta vs Toyota Yaris: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Toyota Yaris, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 3,175,769 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Toyota Yaris comes out slightly ahead with a 82% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Toyota Yaris has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Toyota Yaris
82%
MOT pass rate
691,442 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Toyota Yaris
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Toyota Yaris |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 82%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 18%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | 0 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,195 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.4L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Hybrid, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 69,294 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 691,442 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 25 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2022 (98%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1999 (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)
Toyota Yaris 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 Toyota Yaris
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Ford Fiesta vs Toyota Yaris FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Toyota Yaris?
Based on MOT data, the Toyota Yaris is more reliable with a 82% 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 Toyota Yaris 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 Toyota Yaris?
The Toyota Yaris comes out slightly ahead with a 82% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Toyota Yaris 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
Toyota Yaris Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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