The ten most reliable cars are what Consumer Reports considers to be good investments since we tend to keep them around for quite a while. Getting one with fewer breakdowns and issues ensures that you will have a reliable commute all the time. That translates to fewer repair costs and higher owner satisfaction, plus brand loyalty which increases sales and availability of replacement parts.
It is impossible to test long-term reliability for cars, but CR has a proven method in helping them discern which are the most reliable cars and SUVs you can buy today. The group predicts that these top 10 choices will lessen headaches and problems for their owners compared to thousands of competitors. Their conclusions are based on data, ensuring that the selection is fair and not based on preference or loyalty to one company.
How Consumer Reports Selected the 10 Most Reliable Cars
Consumer Reports gathers its data via an online questionnaire that’s sent to its members. It asks about most experiences with the car, including any issue that has arisen in the previous 12 months of ownership. The questionnaire has 20 aspects, including the engine, transmissions, body hardware, and a couple of other essential things.
These 20 areas of a vehicle are potential trouble spots, so the feedback given for them can help pinpoint common issues. These are then judged and organized by severity and occurrence, helping CR predict the reliability of a certain model. Each is scored from 1 to 100 and is guided by collected data gathered from testing and owner feedback.
CR also only includes vehicles with at least two years of track records to help narrow out the choices. For example, new or first-time variants such as the Tesla Cybertruck are not yet recognized in CR’s testing simply because they don’t have a track record yet.
10 Most Reliable Cars in 2024
Toyota 4Runner 2024 – Reliability 87
The Toyota 4Runner has been a staple in this lineup simply because of its proven track record of durability and reliability. It offers impressive off-road capability and an array of options and trims, including some with sliding tailgate windows and available third-row seats. It’s the oldest design in this lineup, but Toyota’s philosophy of fixing and improving rather than scrapping a workhorse design has worked well for them.
Toyota Camry Hybrid 2024 – Reliability 87
The Toyota Camry Hybrid model is the sedan version of the 4Runner when it comes to reliability. The higher-trimmed hybrid version offers comfortable seating and driving experience. It’s very easy to drive, and it also has best-in-class fuel economy thanks to its proven hybrid drivetrain.
Toyota Camry 2024 – Reliability 86
The Toyota Camry gas version offers the same comfort and ease of use as its higher-tiered sibling. It has a higher MPG, but its more affordable and accessible since there’s more of them on the lots. The only difference in CR’s score is the predicted satisfaction, but Camrys are great workhorses so its going to be hard to find an unsatisfied owner.
Toyota RAV4 Prime 2024 – Reliability 84
The RAV4 Prime is probably one of the most sought-after models in Toyota’s lineup. It’s difficult to buy since it’s always sold once it hits dealers’ lists due to its combination of premium functionality with Toyota’s most popular crossover. The compact SUV offers excellent drivability and reliability, along with fantastic MPG ratings, thanks to its hybrid powertrain.
BMW X5 2024 – Reliability 82
The BMW X5 shines above the rest of the brand’s lineup which has many models that are marred by poor reliability and expensive maintenance. Owners of previous years have reported very few issues, and most, if not all, of them are satisfied with this luxury SUV. It boasts a strong powertrain and transmission, with a plush and comfortable interior.
Subaru Forester 2024 – Reliability 82
The Subaru Forester 2024 is a must-have for sporty parents and adventurous youth alike, thanks to its punchy boxer engine and stable AWD driveline. It features a roomy interior versus its competitors with excellent all-around road visibility, plus easy-to-use controls.
Toyota RAV4 2024 – Reliability 80
The economy version of the Prime variant above is also a current best-seller thanks to its proven track record. It has surprisingly good fuel economy despite the larger and older-designed engine. Its interior isn’t the best among compact SUVs, but its legroom and trunk space are balanced enough not to leave each spot cramped.
Acura RDX – Reliability 80
The luxury variant of one of Honda’s most beloved products comes with very agile handling and strong acceleration for a compact SUV. The RDX also features luxury seats with ample support and surprising comfort, while the rest of the interior features high-quality materials with fantastic fit and finish.
Toyota Corolla – Reliability 77
The Toyota Corolla and all of its iterations have been the symbol of what an econobox commuter should be. The new version offers improved driving performance and fuel consumption, making it an even better pick for daily trips to the office. It is very easy to use and comfortable for daily trips, making it a fantastic first car for anyone.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid – Reliability 75
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the best choice for buyers who have RAV4 upper trim budgeting but want more room and power. This midsize SUV has 3rd-row options and a more potent engine that doesn’t sacrifice fuel consumption thanks to its proven hybrid powertrain. This model has better satisfaction ratings from owners compared to the RAV4, thanks to its larger and more spacious cabin.
Leave a Reply