BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability

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Chris Cho

Chris Cho

Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.

When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!

BMW, known initially as Rapp-Motorenwerke, was established in Munich in 1917 and later renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH, abbreviated as BMW.

The company was merged into Knorr-Bremse AG in 1920 but was refounded as BMW AG in 1922. Today, the BMW Group is a top-tier manufacturer of premium automobiles, motorcycles, and mobility services worldwide.

The Volkswagen logo consists of the company's name, which has a specific meaning. The name Volkswagen is derived from two German words, "Villa," which means people, and "Wagen," which means automobile.

When combined, the two words create the phrase "People's Car" or "Car for the People." Volkswagen is recognized for its culture of innovation and its strong commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainability.

This article examines the details of BMW vs. Volkswagen's reliability and clarifies why Volkswagen is considered more reliable.

BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Detailed Comparison

Which Is the Best Car: BMW or Volkswagen?

Reliability is one factor that is impossible to overlook when deciding which is the best car between BMW and Volkswagen.

The BMW Reliability Rating Breakdown of 2.5 out of 5.0 may not be impressive as it ranks 30th out of 32 car brands. This rating is based on an average across 345 unique models.

However, this should not deter you from owning a BMW. The company's luxury vehicles are renowned for their exceptional performance and unmatched engineering.

On the other hand, Volkswagen is a brand that frequently appears in the most reliable car rankings. Consumer Reports places the company at the 17th position, which is neither the best nor the worst.

The J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study also ranks the corporation in the bottom half. Nevertheless, Volkswagen's Reliability Rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 is relatively higher than BMW, ranking at the 12th position out of 32 car brands. This rating is based on an average across 345 unique models.

Reliability ratings are often subjective and depend on the car model and the owner's experience. While BMW may have a lower reliability rating, its reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles speaks for itself.

Volkswagen's reliability rating may be higher, but it doesn't necessarily mean that all Volkswagen models are more reliable than BMW models.

1. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Design

Throughout decades, BMW has maintained its status as the most distinguished German brand, and its iconic design elements have become signature features.

Distilled and refined over time, they are easily recognizable and admired for their aesthetic appeal and functionality.

With the ethos "form follows function," BMW designers prioritize creating cars that look beautiful and are crafted for natural grace and movement through the air stream.

An excellent example is the kidney grille, first introduced at the 1933 Geneva auto show as two tall ovals. Over time, it evolved into the distinct shape we know today, which improves aerodynamics and reduces drag.

On the flip side, Volkswagen's distinctive culture of innovation stands as one of the numerous elements that position it as a top-tier automaker.

Additionally, its steadfast adherence to quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainability play crucial roles in the brand's success. The brand's new design reflects its fresh attitude, which is human, open, inviting, transparent, responsible, and authentic.

The updated brand design aims to highlight the differences between Volkswagen and its competitors and make them more perceptible.

While both BMW and Volkswagen have their strengths in terms of iconic design, BMW undoubtedly takes the lead.

Winner: BMW

2. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost

Regarding maintenance and repair expenses over the initial decade of service, BMW models present a higher cost than luxury brands, with an average expense of approximately $19,312, exceeding the industry average by $7,268.

In contrast, Volkswagen models exhibit relatively lower expenses, averaging around $8,166 for maintenance and repair during their first ten years of service, surpassing the industry average for popular brands by $1,352. Based on this comparison, Volkswagen emerged as the more cost-effective option.

Winner: Volkswagen

3. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Durability

The lifespan of BMW models is a popular inquiry among car enthusiasts. MotorAsk states that a well-maintained BMW can last 150-200,000 miles.

Based on the yearly national average of 13,500 miles, one can enjoy their BMW for 10-15 years.

Volkswagen has experienced its share of ups and downs but remains a reputable brand.

Although less long-lasting than other brands, proper maintenance can ensure a Volkswagen's longevity. As per motorask.com, Volkswagen models can last between 100,000 - 200,000 miles, with some surpassing that limit.

Winner: BMW

4. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Engine

BMW has earned a reputation for its straight-six engines, a layout replaced mainly by V6 engines in most other manufacturers.

Additionally, BMW has produced engines in inline-three, V10, and V12 layouts. The S54 inline-six engine from the E46 M3 has been considered one of the company's finest engines thanks to its exceptional power, sound, and reliability.

The new BMW 3.0 CSL, capable of producing over 500hp, is the most potent inline-six engine.

Volkswagen's Turbocharged Stratified Injection (TSI) engine is a turbocharged evolution of the company's Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (TFSI) engine. While similar, the newer TSI engines generally offer increased reliability and low-end torque.

Although designed by Audi, the original EA888 1.8L TSI is one of the best-known and highly regarded VW engines. They also have 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines.

The most potent VW engine is the gasoline-powered 3.0-liter V6 plug-in hybrid, generating 462 horsepower.

Winner: Both

5. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Gas Mileage

BMW's lineup boasts impressive fuel efficiency ratings for drivers who prioritize economy without sacrificing luxury. The 2022 BMW 3 Series takes the lead, delivering an impressive 36 MPG on the highway.

The BMW 5 Series is also popular, with the 2022 BMW 530i estimated to achieve up to 33 MPG.

The 2022 BMW 230i Coupe is the clear winner for drivers who want the best gas mileage. This sleek coupe runs on a 2.0L I-4 cyl engine, offering an impressive 35 MPG on the highway and 26 MPG in the city.

On the other hand, the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta stands out as the most fuel-efficient option within the 2022 VW lineup, boasting an impressive 43 highway mpg.

Similarly, the 2022 Taos is VW's most efficient SUV option, delivering up to 37 mpg on the highway.

Notably, the enhanced 2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI sports sedan exhibits surprising fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 37 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city, all while housing a robust 228 horsepower engine.

In addition, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, with its turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 241 horsepower, achieves 34 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city.

Lastly, the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon, a nearly-luxurious sedan offering 300 horsepower, also garners a respectable combined 34 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city.

Winner: Volkswagen

6. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Technology

BMW's iDrive system gives drivers complete control over various functions, including navigation, entertainment, climate control, and communication.

The central screen and control knob or touchpad in the center console allows easy access and manipulation of the system's features.

iDrive's intuitive interface enables drivers to use simple gestures and voice commands, making it highly user-friendly and convenient.

BMW's Gesture Control feature, available in select models, adds to the advanced technology suite, enabling drivers to control certain infotainment functions using hand gestures.

With cameras and sensors, drivers can perform various functions, such as adjusting the volume, skipping songs, and accepting or rejecting phone calls, without touching the controls physically.

On the other hand, Volkswagen's VW Car-Net technology suite integrates smartphones and vehicles with advanced software applications.

VW Car-Net App-Connect, available in select models, allows drivers to directly access specific smartphone applications, such as maps, music, and messaging, from the dashboard.

VW's Guide & Inform system provides satellite navigation, traffic updates, and weather reports combined with SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link.

The Security & Service features include locating the vehicle's last parked location, checking if the vehicle's doors are locked, receiving vehicle health reports, and calling for emergency assistance if necessary.

VW Car-Net App-Connect integrates with leading car technologies such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink, allowing drivers to stay connected with their favorite apps without learning a new interface.

The system's effortless plug-and-play compatibility with smartphones enables drivers to enjoy uninterrupted connectivity on the road.

Winner: Both

7. BMW vs. Volkswagen Reliability: Safety

BM prioritizes safety by adopting a comprehensive approach in its safety bodyshell design.

It uses robust construction and reinforced materials to create a sturdy safety cage that helps preserve the occupants' survival space during a collision.

Additionally, the BMW Restraint System employs three-point seat belts with integral tensioners and force limiters to keep passengers securely in their seats.

In contrast, Volkswagen offers an all-inclusive safety suite with its IQ. The DRIVE bundle encompasses a wide range of standard features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Front Assist, Emergency Assist, and Lane Assist. These systems employ a combination of sensors, cameras, and automated systems to ensure paramount safety on the road.

Winner: Volkswagen

Final Verdict

The article shows that Volkswagen wins the BMW vs. Volkswagen reliability contest. Volkswagen, as expected, dominated most categories.