Volkswagen Golf vs Ford Focus: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 3,250,094 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Volkswagen Golf edges ahead in this comparison with an 83% MOT pass rate versus 80% for the Ford Focus. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Volkswagen Golf has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Ford Focus may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Volkswagen Golf
83%
MOT pass rate
1,582,776 tests
More reliableFord Focus
80%
MOT pass rate
1,667,318 tests
Full Comparison: Volkswagen Golf vs Ford Focus
| Category | Volkswagen Golf | Ford Focus |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 83%Winner | 80% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 17%Winner | 20% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +1 ptsWinner | -2 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,817 | £1,514Winner |
| Est. Insurance Group | 15-25 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,500-£3,000 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L | 1.6L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel, Petrol | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 99,047 mi | 85,324 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 1,582,776 | 1,667,318 |
| Model Years | 35 years | 25 years |
| Best Year | 2020 (94%)Winner | 2020 (91%) |
| Worst Year | 2004 (69%)Winner | 1999 (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.
Volkswagen Golf: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Ford Focus: 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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Find garages →Volkswagen Golf vs Ford Focus FAQ
Can I compare a Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus 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 Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus?
The Volkswagen Golf has the higher MOT pass rate, 83% compared to 80% for the Ford Focus (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Volkswagen Golf costs around £1,817 in fuel, while the Ford Focus costs around £1,514 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 5 October 2026). The Ford Focus is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus?
The Volkswagen Golf edges ahead in this comparison with an 83% MOT pass rate versus 80% for the Ford Focus. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Volkswagen Golf has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Ford Focus may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Volkswagen Golf Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Ford Focus Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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