Ford vs Toyota: Which Is Best?

Ford and Toyota are known for building affordable cars that are loved the world over by loyal fans, and this makes it all the more difficult to choose between them. If you’ve found yourself wondering which one is best, you’ve come to the right place.

Ford vs Toyota: Maintenance Costs

When you buy a new car, it’s not only important to consider the initial purchase price but also the cost of maintaining the car for however long you plan to own it. So, which of these two manufacturers is cheapest?

Ford comes out on top as the cheapest to maintain - only just! - with a total average cost of £543 compared to Toyota's £553.26.

Ford vs Toyota: Model Range

Next, let’s take a look at the different models offered by each manufacturer.

Ford has eight diverse models in its current range: Explorer, Focus, Puma, Kuga, Mustang Mach-E, S-Max, Galaxy, Tourneo Custom.

Toyota, on the other hand, offers 15 models, several of which are available as hybrids: Yaris Cross, Yaris, Corolla, Aygo X, C-HR, bZ4X, Prius, Rav4, Proace Verso, Proace City, GR Yaris, Hilux, Supra, Mirai and GR86.

Ford vs Toyota: Reliability

It's a well-established fact that Toyota is a more reliable brand than Ford, as the 2024 WhatCar? Reliability Survey proves:

• Toyota - 5th place, 96.1%

• Ford - 14th place, 91.5%

Here’s a run down of the brands that were most reliable.

Ford vs Toyota: Warranty

Toyota offers a warranty of up to 10 years or 100,000 miles through Toyota Relax. This consists of a 3 year manufacturer warranty from the vehicle’s registration date that can be extended with regular servicing at a Toyota dealer. Every Toyota service comes with a 12 month warranty.

In addition to this, Toyota also offers:

• 15 year hybrid battery cover

• 12 year anti-corrosion and perforation warranty

• 3 year paintwork and surface rust warranty

• 5 year Mirai fuel cell warranty

Ford’s warranty offering is somewhat less impressive, standing at 3 years or 60,000 miles for new cars. This includes:

• Base 

• Paint surface 

• Corrosion

• Repaired/replaced parts

• Wear and tear

Ford Direct used cars also come with a two year warranty.

How safe are Toyota cars compared to Ford?

Toyota generally scores very highly when it comes to safety ratings (such as Euro NCAP, in which the Aygo recently earned four stars) thanks to its Safety Sense (TSS) system. 

This comes as standard on the majority of new cars and includes features like:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection

• Dynamic radar cruise control

• Lane departure alert

• Automatic high beams

• Lane tracing assist

• Road sign assist

Safety is one area where Ford particularly excels, with many of its models - including the Kuga and Fiesta - earning five stars in Euro NCAP, which is the highest rating possible.

What's the difference between Ford and Toyota?

Here are some key differences:

• Ford is an American car manufacturer, while Toyota is Japanese.

• Ford often focuses performance and appearance, while Toyota prioritises practicality.

• Toyota is better known for its reliable cars.

• Toyota has always sold more cars than Ford, but Ford is more popular in the UK.

Which is more fun to drive, Ford or Toyota?

The answer is: it entirely depends on which model you’re driving and what you count as fun! The fast and furious Ford GT is undoubtedly going to be more fun to drive than the modest Toyota Aygo, whereas the Toyota GR Supra will probably be more fun than the Ford Ka.

Ford vs Toyota: which is the best?

Only you know what you’re looking for and what’s important to you in a car, but hopefully, this guide has helped you understand more about the two brands and how they differ so you can make an informed decision when choosing between them.

For reliability and practicality, Toyota undoubtedly steals the show. But when it comes to appearance and performance, it’s a very different story. 

While Toyota toys with cutting-edge technology, Ford badges remain one of the most common sights on UK roads…that must count for something.

Looking for affordable repairs or maintenance for your car? You're in the right place.

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