Least reliable cars may see drivers slapped with huge £8k repair cost

This is despite drivers paying a premium for higher-end specifications, luxury interiors and a host of other features.

The MotorEasy Reliability Index found that the Toyota Previa retained its crown as being the most reliable car, with an average score of 9.8 for dependability and affordability.

Although the Previa is no longer on the market, the seven-seater minivan remains one of the most reliable cars on the road, with its robust design and safety features being praised.

Other Japanese and South Korean models were included in the most reliable list, including the Kia Niro and Soul, the Toyota CH-R and the Suzuki Vitara.

Duncan McClure Fisher, founder of MotorEasy, said: “With repair costs rising and vehicle technology becoming ever more complex, understanding real-world reliability has never been more important for UK drivers.

“The MotorEasy Reliability Index helps motorists make informed decisions, not just about what to buy, but how to protect themselves from costly repairs.”

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GETTY/PA

The 10 most reliable cars

1. Toyota Previa
2. Seat Arona
3. Skoda Citigo
4. Kia Niro
5. Toyota CH-R
6. Kia Soul
7. Lexus CT
8. Fiat Tipo
9. Suzuki Vitara
10. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

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TOYOTA

However, not all cars were praised for their reliability, with the Tesla Model X placing at the bottom of the Reliability Index, behind 349 other vehicles.

It received a score of just one out of 10 for dependability and repair affordability, followed by other premium models like the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, Audi Q7 and Range Rover Sport.

Many of these vehicles were impacted by expensive repair costs, including the Citroen C4 needing a new gearbox, which set the owner back a staggering £8,000.

Similarly, a new engine cylinder head and timing belt for the Volkswagen Passat cost the owner £6,000.

Mr McClure Fisher said that modern cars are “smarter than ever”, but this can result in more expensive repairs for motorists to pay for in the event of an issue.

Electric vehicles, like the Porsche Taycan, have lower running costs compared to a petrol car, but some issues can be more expensive.

One owner of a Taycan needed a new battery charger control module, resulting in them forking out more than £4,000.

“Many drivers assume premium cars are better built and more reliable, but our data shows that complexity and repair costs often work against them,” Mr McClure Fisher said.

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The 10 least reliable cars

1. Tesla Model X
2. Mercedes GL-Class
3. Citroen Relay
4. Audi Q7
5. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
6. Volkswagen Caravelle
7. Porsche Panamera
8. Land Rover Range Rover Velar
9. Audi A7
10. Land Rover Discovery