The latest reliability surveys highlight the brands that produce the most dependable cars based on real-world data from over 330,000 vehicles. Here's a breakdown:
Top 5 Most Reliable Car Brands
Lexus
- Consistently strong reliability, with the UX hybrid SUV leading the lineup.
- Only one model (NX) scored average; all others were above-average or better.
Toyota
- Known for dependability across its lineup, led by the rugged 4Runner SUV.
- The Tundra full-sized truck remains an outlier with lower reliability.
Mini
- Small lineup, but consistently high scores for quality and dependability.
Acura
- Models like the RDX and TLX perform well.
- Recently redesigned MDX SUV and Integra sedan earn average reliability scores.
Honda
- Reliable mainstream brand, praised for its balance of quality and affordability.
Regional Reliability
- Asian Brands: Lead the pack with an average reliability score of 63/100. Seven of the top 10 brands are from Asia.
- European Brands: Average reliability score of 46/100, with standout models improving their ranks.
- Domestic Brands: Lag behind at 39/100, though certain models, like the Ford Edge and Buick Encore GX, perform well.
Best Performing Vehicle Types
Sedans, Hatchbacks, and Wagons: Most reliable with an average score of 57.
- Tend to have fewer high-tech, problematic features.
SUVs: Average reliability score of 50.
Minivans: Score 45 on average, plagued by reliability issues.
Pickup Trucks: Least reliable, with an average score of 41.
Electrified Vehicles: Reliability Trends
Hybrids
- Perform better than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, with 26% fewer problems.
- Standouts include:
- Lexus UX Hybrid
- Toyota Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, and Highlander Hybrid
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
- Mixed reliability, with 146% more problems than ICE vehicles.
- Struggling models:
- Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (lowest score: 14)
- Audi Q5 PHEV
- Standouts:
- Toyota RAV4 Prime
- Kia Sportage Hybrid
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
- Average reliability scores:
- Electric cars: 44
- Electric SUVs: 43
- Electric pickup trucks: 30
- Common issues: EV drive motors, charging systems, and batteries.
- Struggling models include:
- Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Volkswagen ID.4, and Toyota bZ4X.
Summing it up
- Lexus and Toyota dominate reliability rankings due to robust engineering and limited tech issues.
- Hybrids are highly dependable and outperform both ICE and EV models.
- Electric vehicles show potential but suffer from teething issues as technology evolves.
- Domestic brands need improvement but are making strides with individual models.
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