UK’s most reliable cars revealed as 100,000 drivers have their say
Car changing is a big deal
The Driver Power survey asked 100,000 drivers to rate their cars’ reliability, and these 10 models came out on top.
We all want our cars to last as long as possible, especially as living costs continue to rise. The more reliable your car, the more you can save on unexpected repair bills and costly breakdowns.
But which cars are the most reliable? To find out, we looked at responses from over 100,000 drivers in the 2026 Driver Power survey.
Here are the 10 most reliable cars, as voted by you:
- Tesla Model 3
- Volkswagen T-Roc
- BMW 1 Series
- Mazda CX-30
- BMW 2 Series
- Toyota Aygo X
- Volvo XC40
- Toyota C-HR
- Vauxhall Grandland
- Ford Kuga
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
1. Tesla Model 3 – 90.54%
Taking the top spot is the Tesla Model 3, which also ranked the best car to own in this year’s Driver Power survey. This electric saloon offers strong value, with a range of up to 323 miles on a single charge.
Owners were full of praise for the car, with one saying: “As a performance model it’s ridiculously fast! Very reliable and cheap to run.”
2. Volkswagen T-Roc – 90.48%
Claiming second place is the T-Roc, a stylish and practical SUV that’s quiet, refined and spacious, with a large boot. However, there’s no plug-in hybrid version, and the larger wheels can make the ride unsettled over rough surfaces.
Even so, owners were impressed by its reliability. One driver said, “It’s really reliable, comfortable and good to drive,” while another described the T-Roc as “good quality and reliable.”
3. BMW 1 Series – 90.36%
The BMW 1 Series rounds out the top three for reliability. It’s the German brand’s smallest model, combining premium appeal with engaging handling and impressive in-car technology. However, it’s not as comfortable as some alternatives, and rear-seat space is fairly limited.
Owners were particularly impressed by its reliability and overall quality. One owner said they “like the comfort and mileage it does”.
4. Mazda CX-30 – 90.31%
The Mazda CX-30 might have just missed out on the podium, but it’s still highly rated by owners for its reliability. This stylish small SUV comes well equipped as standard and is enjoyable to drive. However, the rear-seat room is tight and boot space falls short of the class leaders.
Beyond its dependability, owners praised its quality, comfort and equipment. One said: “It’s well equipped with loads of safety features. It’s also comfortable on both short and long journeys. Fuel efficiency is good on longer journeys.”
5. BMW 2 Series – 90.21%
Rounding out the top five is another BMW. The 2 Series stands out with its distinctive styling and premium interior. However, the boot can be awkward to access, and rear-seat space is limited.
Owners were impressed by its overall quality. One owner said: “I like the sporty styling and the engine makes a great sound. The interior is also very luxurious.”
6. Toyota Aygo X – 89.66%
A highly efficient hybrid engine, chunky looks and a fun driving experience make the Toyota Aygo X a charming city car, although cabin storage is limited and the boot is quite small.
Toyota has built a reputation for reliability over the years, so it’s no surprise that one of its models has earned a place in the top 10. One owner described the Aygo X as a “great little car that’s very reliable”, while another said it “does what it says on the tin”.
7. Volvo XC40 – 89.61%
Volvo XC40 owners rate this sophisticated SUV highly for its quality and reliability. It’s spacious, comfortable and easy to live with. That said, the interior design is beginning to show its age, and the infotainment system can be fiddly to use.
Despite those drawbacks, owners remain impressed by the XC40. One described it as “economical, reliable and safe”, while another said they “love the shape of the Volvo and its reliability”.
8. Toyota C-HR – 89.50%
Another Toyota makes it into the top 10, this time in the form of the striking C-HR. This stylish SUV looks unlike almost anything else on the road, while also offering low running costs. However, it’s a little pricey upfront and the rear cabin doesn’t feel as premium as the rest of the interior.
Owners also praised the C-HR for its reliability and quality. One driver said it’s “comfortable and roomy, and is fuel efficient too”, while another described it as “nice to drive”.
9. Vauxhall Grandland – 89.29%
Also making the top 10 is the Vauxhall Grandland. This SUV has a quality interior, decent practicality and is comfortable to drive. However, it’s just a bit dull and the petrol engine is gutless.
That said, owners rated it as very reliable. “It’s very economical to run and easy to drive,” one owner said.
10. Ford Kuga – 88.85%
Rounding out our list is the Ford Kuga. This practical family SUV is enjoyable to drive, keenly priced and comes with generous standard equipment. However, some alternatives have plusher interiors, and its boot is smaller than those of key alternatives.
Owners rate the Kuga highly for its reliability, which one driver listed as its best attribute, followed by its styling, safety and impressive tech.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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