The Auto Express Driver Power 2026 survey, which collected over 100,000 UK driver responses, named the Tesla Model 3 the best car to own, scoring 88.6 percent overall. The electric saloon beat 50 other models and topped categories such as engine performance, safety and reliability, while the BMW 2 Series and Vauxhall Grandland filled the remaining podium spots.

Model 3’s 88.6 percent score beats 50 rivals in overall satisfaction

According to the Auto Express poll, the Model 3 achieved the highest satisfaction rating of any vehicle tested, registering an 88.6 percent overall score. That figure placed it ahead of the BMW 2 Series (88.2 percent) and Vauxhall Grandland (87.8 percent), and it also secured perfect marks for drivetrain smoothness. The survey’s breadth—over 100,000 respondents—lends weight to the result,suggesting a genuine shift in driver sentiment toward electric powertrains.

Engine and gearbox performance: 0‑60 mph in 2.9 seconds for the Performance trim

The Model 3’s dominance in the “engine and gearbox performance” category stems largely from its rapid acceleration; the Performance variant can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, a figure that outruns most petrol‑powered rivals. As the report notes, owners praised the instant torque and smooth power delivery, awarding the car a perfect 100 percent rating for drivetrain smoothness. this performance edge helped the Model 3 rank second overall for driving pleasure, despite a lower efficiency ranking (14th across all fuel types).

Quality and reliability climb: from last place to fifth in build quality

Historically, Tesla’s build quality has been a criticism, yet the Model 3 now ranks fifth for build quality and third for reliability, according to the survey. The improvement reflects Tesla’s recent manufacturing upgrades and suggests that the brand is closing the gap with legacy premium makers. The report highlights that owners gave the Model 3 high marks for interior technology, yet still noted exterior styling (34th) and brake responsiveness (31st) as weaker points.

BMW 2 Series surge to second place with 88.2 percent score

The BMW 2 Series coupe leapt from tenth in the 2025 poll to second this year, earning an 88.2 percent overall rating. Its success was driven by strong scores in design, comfort and infotainment, especially a curved display that combines a 12.3‑inch driver screen with a 14.9‑inch central touchscreen. While the BMW excelled in powertrain performance (third) and ride‑and‑handling (second), it lagged in practicality, ranking 28th for child‑friendly features and 33rd for exterior styling.

Vauxhall Grandland’s surprise entry at 87.8 percent

The Vauxhall Grandland SUV secured third place with an 87.8 percent overall score, marking the brand’s first appearance in the top five. Priced from £35,095, the Grandland did not win any single category but delivereed consistent performance across metrics, notably scoring sixth for exterior design and second for interior quality and practicality. Its balanced offering appeals to buyers seeking an affordable SUV with strong overall satisfaction.

Who will eclipse the Model 3’s lead in the next survey?

Open questions remain about whether any upcoming EVs—such as the upcoming Ford Mustang Mach‑E refresh or the Polestar 3—can challenge the Model 3’s lead. The Auto Express poll did not include data on upcoming model releases, and it is unclear how future software updates or battery improvements might shift owner perceptions . As the market expands,the next round of Driver Power results will reveal whether Tesla can maintain its edge or if rivals will close the gap.