Renault Clio vs Vauxhall Corsa: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Renault Clio and Vauxhall Corsa, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,128,131 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Vauxhall Corsa comes out slightly ahead with a 77% MOT pass rate versus 72% for the Renault Clio. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Vauxhall Corsa has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Renault Clio
72%
MOT pass rate
596,888 tests
Vauxhall Corsa
77%
MOT pass rate
1,531,243 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Renault Clio vs Vauxhall Corsa
| Category | Renault Clio | Vauxhall Corsa |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 72% | 77%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 28% | 23%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -10 pts | -5 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £913Winner | £1,195 |
| Insurance Group | 10-20 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.6L | 1.3L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Hybrid, Petrol | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 73,224 mi | 69,847 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 596,888 | 1,531,243 |
| Model Years | 31 years | 29 years |
| Best Year | 2020 (91%) | 2021 (96%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1997 (65%) | 2003 (67%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Renault Clio Known Issues
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Vauxhall Corsa Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Renault Clio
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Renault Clio vs Vauxhall Corsa FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Renault Clio or Vauxhall Corsa?
Based on MOT data, the Vauxhall Corsa is more reliable with a 77% pass rate, compared to 72% for the Renault Clio.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Renault Clio costs around £913 in fuel, while the Vauxhall Corsa costs around £1,195. The Renault Clio is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Renault Clio or Vauxhall Corsa?
The Vauxhall Corsa comes out slightly ahead with a 77% MOT pass rate versus 72% for the Renault Clio. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Vauxhall Corsa has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Renault Clio Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Vauxhall Corsa Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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