German cars Top Trumps for UK consumers

The survey, by Fleet News FN50, asks respondents to identify the most reliable cars and vans on the market, and shows that German cars now occupy six positions in the top ten for reliability, with BMW 3 Series and Honda Accord still holding the first and second place, the same ones they took in 2010.

Volkswagen Golf has advanced seven positions and now stands at number three, followed by Audi A3. British car production is also well represented, as Toyota Avensis, produced in Burnaston, ranked fifth and Nissan Qashqai, made in Sunderland, came seventh.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been named the most reliable van, with Ford Transit and Volkswagen Caddy taking the runners-up spots. Ford Transit Connect and Volkswagen Transporter close the top five in this category.

When it comes to overall brand performance, it was BMW again who took the trophy, whereas Audi and Honda ranked second and third. The top five for most reliable van manufacturers features Volkswagen, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Fiat and Renault.

The regular analysis of the UK car market, commissioned by Fleet News, collects data from 50 UK car and van leasing companies. Experts comment that leading car and van brands have reinforced their positions on the market, thanks to high standards and intense competition.