The Mazda CX-30 has been named the UK's most reliable family car in the Auto Express Driver Power survey, with the Japanese compact SUV on sale in the UK since 2020. The survey, which gathers honest opinions from car owners, saw the CX-30 achieve an outstanding score of 93.37 percent out of 100.
Top Three Family Cars
In second place was the Tesla Model 3 Mk 1, scoring 92.28 percent, a vehicle crowned the best car to own in the UK for 2026. The Tesla, available since 2019, earned impressive scores across all categories. Third place went to the Mk3 BMW 1 Series with 91.79 percent, praised for its reliability, infotainment system, and driving experience.
Owner Praise for Mazda
Owners heaped praise on the CX-30 for its driving experience, reliability, and durability. Auto Express noted: "Japanese brands certainly aren't a rarity on this list, but it's usually Toyota or Honda claiming the honours. This year, though, it's Mazda's time to shine as the CX-30 small SUV is proving to be as durable with owners as it is enjoyable to drive."
Cost of Living Context
The survey arrives as the cost of living crisis deepens, with households tightening budgets. According to Tempcover, four in 10 car owners have cut back on the number of vehicles they run. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that those who downsized from two or more cars to one saved around £1,500 annually.
Tempcover CEO Paul Gilshan said: "Our research shows that for households that have downsized, one car works well. People are better off financially, it fits how they're working and living now, and they're more intentional about when they use it - and it's better for the environment." He added that these households are already practising a form of car sharing, and that mindset is only going to grow.
