The best and worst cars to own, according to owners

Budget car maker Dacia has been named the most satisfying brand by owners, beating competition from premium marques including Lexus and Porsche.

The Romanian brand, which sells the UK’s cheapest new car, secured the top spot in a survey of more than 5,000 car owners for the Honest John Index, which also identified the best and worst models to own.

The study asked owners to rank their car on fuel economy, reliability, practicality, comfort, build quality and safety, with Dacia owners happiest with the package offered by their low-cost motors.

It scored an enviable 91.6% satisfaction rating, just ahead of premium brand Lexus, which got a rating of 90.6% and Hyundai (89.7%).

Hyundai, however, secured the top spot for individual models, with its Ioniq taking the title for the second year running. The family hatchback, which is sold as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or pure electric car, was praised for its ease of use, handling and build quality. With a satisfaction rating of 95.7%, it saw off competition from the Volkswagen T-Roc (93.7%) and Mazda CX-5 (93%).

It also took top spot in the reliability rating for individual model, with a score of 97.5%.