Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 1,468,041 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Kuga (86% pass rate) and Nissan Qashqai (79% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the family car segment.
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 National Avg | +4 ptsWinner | -3 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,434 | £1,195Winner |
| 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 | 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 | 2006 (64%) |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Ford Kuga Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Nissan Qashqai Known Issues
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Kuga
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Check a Specific Nissan Qashqai
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific Nissan Qashqai.
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Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Kuga or Nissan Qashqai?
Based on MOT data, the Ford Kuga is more reliable with a 86% pass rate, compared to 79% for the Nissan Qashqai.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Kuga costs around £1,434 in fuel, while the Nissan Qashqai costs around £1,195. 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?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Kuga (86% pass rate) and Nissan Qashqai (79% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the family car segment.
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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