Nissan Qashqai vs Hyundai Tucson: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 1,201,975 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Nissan Qashqai (79% pass rate) and Hyundai Tucson (87% 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 small family car segment.
Nissan Qashqai
79%
MOT pass rate
1,004,461 tests
Hyundai Tucson
87%
MOT pass rate
197,514 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Nissan Qashqai vs Hyundai Tucson
| Category | Nissan Qashqai | Hyundai Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 79% | 87%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 21% | 13%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -3 pts | +5 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195Winner | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 10-20 | 15-25 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,500-£3,000 |
| Engine Size | 1.5L | 1.8L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 80,988 mi | 78,115 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 1,004,461 | 197,514 |
| Model Years | 16 years | 14 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2019 (90%) |
| Worst Year | 2006 (64%) | 2004 (67%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Nissan Qashqai Known Issues
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Hyundai Tucson Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Nissan Qashqai
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Check a Specific Hyundai Tucson
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Nissan Qashqai vs Hyundai Tucson FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Nissan Qashqai or Hyundai Tucson?
Based on MOT data, the Hyundai Tucson is more reliable with a 87% pass rate, compared to 79% for the Nissan Qashqai.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Nissan Qashqai costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Hyundai Tucson costs around £1,434. The Nissan Qashqai is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Nissan Qashqai or Hyundai Tucson?
This is a very close comparison. The Nissan Qashqai (79% pass rate) and Hyundai Tucson (87% 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 small family car segment.
Nissan Qashqai Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Hyundai Tucson Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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