Ford Fiesta vs Volkswagen Passat: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Passat, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,813,109 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Volkswagen Passat
80%
MOT pass rate
328,782 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Volkswagen Passat
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Volkswagen Passat |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | £913Winner |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.8L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Hybrid, Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 128,358 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 328,782 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 34 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2023 (96%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1995 (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)
Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat
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Ford Fiesta vs Volkswagen Passat FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Passat?
Based on MOT data, the Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat costs around £913. The Volkswagen Passat is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Passat?
The Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat 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
Volkswagen Passat Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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