Ford Focus vs Vauxhall Astra: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 2,817,510 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Ford Focus edges ahead in this comparison with an 80% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Vauxhall Astra. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Focus has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Vauxhall Astra may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Focus
80%
MOT pass rate
1,667,318 tests
More reliableVauxhall Astra
78%
MOT pass rate
1,150,192 tests
Full Comparison: Ford Focus vs Vauxhall Astra
| Category | Ford Focus | Vauxhall Astra |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 80%Winner | 78% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 20%Winner | 22% |
| vs All-Model Avg | -2 ptsWinner | -4 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,512 | £1,512 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 10-20 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.6L | 1.5L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 85,324 miWinner | 88,466 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 1,667,318 | 1,150,192 |
| Model Years | 25 years | 32 years |
| Best Year | 2020 (91%) | 2021 (93%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1999 (65%) | 1999 (69%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Ford Focus: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Vauxhall Astra: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Ford Focus vs Vauxhall Astra FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra?
The Ford Focus has the higher MOT pass rate, 80% compared to 78% for the Vauxhall Astra (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Focus costs around £1,512 in fuel, while the Vauxhall Astra costs around £1,512 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra?
The Ford Focus edges ahead in this comparison with an 80% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Vauxhall Astra. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Focus has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Vauxhall Astra may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Focus Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Vauxhall Astra Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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