Top 10: Most Reliable Cars
If you’re looking for a new car, reliability should be a key consideration. No one wants a car that you can’t rely on to reach your destination or that’ll cost you a fortune in repairs once out of warranty.
As part of our Satisfaction Index, we asked readers to rate their cars for reliability out of 10. These are the models which performed the best, meaning they’re unlikely to leave you stranded on the side of the motorway.
>>> See the best and worst performers in the Honest John Satisfaction Index 2020
Toyota Prius (2016-)
Reliability average score: 9.88
The Toyota Prius is the most reliable car on sale in the UK, according to the Honest John Satisfaction Index. While its quirky looks are divisive, owners find it hard to fault on the reliability front. Combine that with low running costs thanks to its hybrid powertrain and it's easy to see why it's such a popular car with drivers.
Toyota Yaris (2011-)
Reliability average score: 9.85
There's a new model on the way and the current Yaris is starting to feel rather dated compared to newer rivals like the Ford Fiesta, but our Satisfaction index proves it remains an excellent choice if reliability is important. With a score of 9.85 it's only just pipped to the number one spot by the Prius - and, like the Prius, the Yaris will be extremely cheap to run.
Mazda CX-5 (2017-)
Reliability average score: 9.83
It's a bit of a cliché that Japanese cars are reliable but with three Japanese motors topping our Satisfaction Index it's hard to argue otherwise. We rate the Mazda CX-5 highly as a family SUV with bold styling and an excellent interior.
Kia Sportage (2016-)
Reliability average score: 9.81
The Kia Sportage is one of the best-value crossovers on the market, while its range of petrol and diesel engines means it's also very cheap to run. It's a popular choice, and deservedly so - especially with our readers giving it a near 10/10 reliability rating in the Satisfaction Index.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate (2010-2016)
Reliability average score: 9.81
One for used car buyers, the last-generation E-Class Estate makes the top 10 with a commendable 9.81 reliability average. With prices starting from around £7500 for a tidy example, an E-Class Estate of this era could make for a very good second-hand purchase.
Skoda Octavia Estate (2013-)
Reliability average score: 9.80
If you're after a sensible load-lugger, the Skoda Octavia Estate is a very practical choice. Not only does it have a huge boot and an affordable price tag, feedback from our readers suggests it's also very reliable.
Hyundai Ioniq (2016-)
Reliability average score: 9.79
You can buy the Hyundai Ioniq as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric car, making it the perfect choice for city-friendly motoring. As well as being sold with a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty, it's also one of the 10 most reliable cars in the UK. Owners are generally very happy with the Hyundai Ioniq.
Mazda CX-3 (2015-)
Reliability average score: 9.79
There are more practical crossover SUVs on the market, but the CX-3 is a stylish choice with a premium interior. Like the bigger CX-5, it's also a very reliable choice, scoring an impressive 9.79 in our Satisfaction Index 2020. It'll be interesting to see how the new CX-30 ranks next year.
Honda Jazz (2015-)
Reliability average score: 9.78
We regularly recommend the Honda Jazz for its excellent practicality and good value for money - but it's also a very reliable choice, scoring 9.78 in the Satisfaction Index. There's a new model due in 2020 but the outgoing car could still make for a very sensible purchase.
Skoda Octavia (2013-)
Reliability average score: 9.76
With the Skoda Octavia Estate already featured in this top 10, it's no surprise to see the hatchback proving to be equally dependable. Just like the wagon, the hatch is hugely practical and, with a new model on its way in 2020, there could be some excellent deals available on the outgoing car.
