Reliability is a big factor when you’re choosing what car to drive. A dependable car obviously means fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs, which gives you peace of mind. But which are the best cars in the UK when it comes to reliability?

Lexus

Over the years, Lexus has earned a cabinet’s worth of accolades for its dependability. In fact, it’s often found right at the top of any list featuring the most reliable car brands. If you’re looking to keep your new motor for years or you’re eyeing up a stylish but rock-solid business car leasing option, Lexus is a top pick, thanks to its high-quality engineering. Drivers have praised its hybrid systems, too, which have a reputation for making ownership hassle-free and bringing down running costs.

Toyota

Toyota is basically reliability royalty, and not without good reason. Solid engineering, fuel-efficient hybrids, and models that just keep going have all lent themselves to a solid reputation. It consistently ranks among the top three most reliable brands and – along with its luxury division, Lexus – dominates international reliability studies. It’s a track record that comes from decades of proven engineering and very low fault incidences across all models.

Suzuki

While it might be smaller than other Japanese carmakers, Suzuki punches well above its weight when it comes to low-maintenance cars that prioritise dependability. It was rated the second most reliable manufacturer in the Honest John Satisfaction Index, with a 9.75/10 score for reliability. In that survey of over 6,000 motorists, Suzuki owners reported very few issues. While not as high-tech and gadget-oriented as other brands, Suzuki’s application of tried-and-true mechanical parts means that fewer things tend to go wrong.

Mazda

The final Japanese car brand on our list, Mazda consistently rates among the best in dependability studies, with Consumer Reports placing it sixth globally in 2024. Like Suzuki, Mazda has been praised for simple yet innovative engineering. SKYACTIV technology helps to improve efficiency without adding undue complexity that might compromise durability. They also stuck with proven naturally aspirated engines and reliable automatic gearboxes in much of their range. The build quality is tight, and even features like their infotainment systems tend to be kept straightforward, resulting in fewer glitches.

Kia

Kia has made huge strides in the UK car market in recent years, climbing up the reliability ranks. Models like the Sportage and Ceed are often touted for their bulletproof build and show that Kia is one of the most reliable car brands around. Most owners report minimal downtime thanks to Kia’s focus on engineering that goes the distance. With a solid balance of value, style, and longevity, Kia’s range is well worth a look if you want a reliable, low-maintenance car.

Dacia

Dacia has proven that you don’t need to spend a fortune on dependable motoring. The Sandero, for instance, has been called the UK’s cheapest new car for years, but it still scores well in owner surveys. Dacia likes to keep things supremely simple, which helps keep them in the mix for the most reliable car brands – fewer complicated electronics means fewer things that can go wrong.

As a result, the Renault-owned brand has managed to outperform many pricier manufacturers on this metric. They’re not flashy, but if you want something low-cost and robust that will get you from A to B day in and day out, then a Dacia might be one of the best cars in the UK.

Mini

Despite a chequered past in terms of reliability, Mini has recently emerged as one of the most dependable brands on sale in the UK. It actually topped some major reliability surveys in 2024, with an overall score of about 98%. All five of their models have very low fault rates, and those faults that did crop up were generally minor. The current Mini range shares reliable powertrains with BMW, but in a car that doesn’t overload them with weight. The result is a punchy performance paired with solid reliability.

Looking to access a reliable, low-maintenance car?

Finding a dependable car is important, but accessing one in a cost-effective way is just as crucial. That’s where SG Fleet can help.

With our market leading Novalease solution, you can access any new or used car on the UK market. It’s a no-risk solution with zero associated costs, giving you total peace of mind. All you need to do is add fuel (or charge), and you’re good to go!

So, if you're looking for a stress-free way to drive one of the best cars in the UK, explore our employee car benefits today, or, if you have more detailed questions, get in touch with our team, and we’ll be happy to help.

FAQ

Are electric cars as reliable as petrol and diesel models?

Electric vehicles (EVs) tend to have fewer moving parts than traditional combustion engines, which can reduce the likelihood of mechanical faults. That said, battery performance and charging infrastructure are key factors to consider.

How can I reduce car maintenance costs?

Regular servicing, careful driving habits, and choosing a model with a strong reliability record can all help reduce maintenance costs.

What are the benefits of leasing a reliable car?

Leasing can help you to access a new, well-maintained car without the financial risks of ownership. It offers predictable costs and leaves you with fewer concerns about depreciation.

Further Reading

-       Which Poplar Car Models Are We Saying Goodbye to This Year?

-       How European Car Brands Are Bouncing Back

-       A Look at the New Players in the Automotive Market

-       Tesla and the Future of Electric Vehicles