WSG crowns Toyota as the most reliable supermini

The Toyota Yaris has clinched the title of the most reliable supermini, boasting a warranty claim rate of just 3.6%, according to Warranty Solutions Group (WSG).

The top three most common warranty claims were the wheel bearings (averaging £271.00), concentric slave cylinder (£313.32) and air conditioning condenser (£420.07).

Known for its urban agility and impressive motorway performance, WSG said the fourth-generation Yaris combines reliability with fuel efficiency, making it a top choice in its class – despite its relatively high price, limited rear passenger space, a small boot, and somewhat plain interior.

The Toyota Aygo came a close second with a claim rate of 5.88%. Key issues to watch for include window switches (£160.90), front O2 sensors (£162.59), and release bearings (£435.63).

The Suzuki Swift sits in third place with a claim rate of 6.42% Agile on twisty roads, its lightness also makes it super-economical. The top three top issues with the Suzuki Swift are coil springs (£127.56), clutch pressure plate (£810.79) and in-car entertainment, infotainment and telephone (£1,539.53).

Sitting at the bottom of the top 20 superminis is the Citroen C3 with a claim rate of 19.71%, followed by the Peugeot 208 with a claim rate of 18.51%, and the Mini Cooper with a claim rate of 17.42%

The supermini has retained its status as the most sought-after used vehicle type, with an 8.6% increase in sales over the past year according to the SMMT.

Martin Binnee, operations director of WSG commented: “Superminis have long been a staple of the UK car market, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Accounting for approximately 31.9% of all used car transactions, superminis remain the best-selling vehicle type. Their appeal lies in their compact size, affordability, and practicality, making them ideal for urban driving and first-time buyers.

“Superminis offer one of the most accessible ways to experience high-performance driving, bringing extra enjoyment to even the most routine journeys.

“Building a small, fun, and efficient hot hatchback that also meets today’s tough safety and emissions standards isn’t easy. Yet, a few bold manufacturers are still championing the supermini market, crafting compact cars that bring excitement back to everyday driving - balancing thrills with ease, efficiency, and a playful spirit.”