Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 1,468,041 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Ford Kuga is the clear winner in this comparison, with a significantly higher MOT pass rate of 86% compared to 79% for the Nissan Qashqai. It is more likely to pass its MOT without issues and should cost less in unexpected repairs. If reliability is your top priority, the Ford Kuga is the better choice.
Ford Kuga
86%
MOT pass rate
463,580 tests
More reliableNissan Qashqai
79%
MOT pass rate
1,004,461 tests
Full Comparison: Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai
| Category | Ford Kuga | Nissan Qashqai |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 86%Winner | 79% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 14%Winner | 21% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +4 ptsWinner | -3 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,814 | £1,512Winner |
| 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) | Diesel, Petrol | Petrol |
| Segment | Family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 78,736 miWinner | 80,988 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 463,580 | 1,004,461 |
| Model Years | 14 years | 16 years |
| Best Year | 2020 (93%) | 2021 (94%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 2008 (77%)Winner | 2008 (65%) |
| 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 Kuga: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Nissan Qashqai: Typical Issues to Check
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai 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 Kuga or Nissan Qashqai?
The Ford Kuga has the higher MOT pass rate, 86% compared to 79% for the Nissan Qashqai (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Ford Kuga or Nissan Qashqai?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Kuga costs around £1,814 in fuel, while the Nissan Qashqai 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). The Nissan Qashqai is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Kuga or Nissan Qashqai?
The Ford Kuga is the clear winner in this comparison, with a significantly higher MOT pass rate of 86% compared to 79% for the Nissan Qashqai. It is more likely to pass its MOT without issues and should cost less in unexpected repairs. If reliability is your top priority, the Ford Kuga is the better choice.
Ford Kuga 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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