Kia Ceed vs Hyundai i30: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Kia Ceed and Hyundai i30, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 389,145 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Kia Ceed edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Hyundai i30. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Kia Ceed has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Hyundai i30 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Kia Ceed
78%
MOT pass rate
205,250 tests
More reliableHyundai i30
77%
MOT pass rate
183,895 tests
Full Comparison: Kia Ceed vs Hyundai i30
| Category | Kia Ceed | Hyundai i30 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78%Winner | 77% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22%Winner | 23% |
| vs All-Model Avg | -4 ptsWinner | -5 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,512 | £1,512 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.4L | 1.5L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel, Petrol | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 72,074 miWinner | 74,556 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 205,250 | 183,895 |
| Model Years | 17 years | 15 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (90%) | 2019 (91%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 2007 (68%) | 2008 (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.
Kia Ceed: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Hyundai i30: 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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Kia Ceed vs Hyundai i30 FAQ
Can I compare a Kia Ceed and Hyundai i30 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 Kia Ceed or Hyundai i30?
The Kia Ceed has the higher MOT pass rate, 78% compared to 77% for the Hyundai i30 (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Kia Ceed or Hyundai i30?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Kia Ceed costs around £1,512 in fuel, while the Hyundai i30 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 Kia Ceed or Hyundai i30?
The Kia Ceed edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Hyundai i30. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Kia Ceed has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Hyundai i30 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Kia Ceed Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Hyundai i30 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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