Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Insignia: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Insignia, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,857,347 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Vauxhall Insignia comes out slightly ahead with a 80% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Vauxhall Insignia has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Vauxhall Insignia
80%
MOT pass rate
373,020 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Insignia
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Vauxhall Insignia |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | £1,195 | £1,076Winner |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 15-25 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,500-£3,000 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 2.1L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 90,627 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 373,020 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 14 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2018 (88%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2008 (70%)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)
Vauxhall Insignia 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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Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Insignia FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Insignia?
Based on MOT data, the Vauxhall Insignia 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 Vauxhall Insignia costs around £1,076. The Vauxhall Insignia is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Insignia?
The Vauxhall Insignia comes out slightly ahead with a 80% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Vauxhall Insignia 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
Vauxhall Insignia Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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