Choosing the right car can be super stressful. Do you opt for electric or gas? An SUV or a truck? A domestic car brand or a foreign one? The debates are endless, but the truth is, that even the most stylish or affordable car might not actually be the best choice. The good news? You can find a fantastic blend of reliability, attractiveness, and affordability if you know where to look. (These are the car brands with the best and worst buyer experience.)
To help you navigate your next automotive purchase, we’ve compiled a list of the ten best-selling cars we believe our readers should seriously consider. We relied heavily on data from Consumer Reports and online reviews to identify these top contenders. With used car prices skyrocketing, we also prioritized reliability above all else. As defined by Consumer Reports, reliability focuses on performance within the first 12 months of ownership across 20 critical areas, including battery, transmission, and engine. (These cars hold their value the longest.)
We did this because we figured that no matter how good a car looks, it has no benefit to you if it breaks down regularly. This gives you insight into how long your investment will last, and ultimately how much it’s worth. Here are the ten best-selling cars we think you should try, listed from least reliable to most reliable. While Consumer Reports surveyed 30 vehicle brands, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top ten.
Why We’re Covering This
The global automotive manufacturing market is worth more than $2.5 trillion. Not only is that a big chunk of the global economy that affects millions of people, but the industry also provides jobs to millions of people. The reliability of cars is about more than your investment — it’s about keeping a giant portion of the economy moving seamlessly. When automakers build reliable cars, it’s good for the owner and the economy.
These are the top 10 most reliable car brands:
10. Kia
- Reliability ranking out of 100: 61
A cousin to the Hyundai brand, Kia is known for competent and stylish SUVs and cars. It is a Korean brand that offers an efficient fuel economy and respectable acceleration in most models. The brand manufactures small sedans like the Kia EV3, along with larger sedans, SUVs, and minivans.
9. BMW
- Reliability ranking out of 100: 64
A German auto manufacturing company, BMW offers high comfort levels, new technology, and fuel efficiency. Their vehicles are fun to drive and sporty, but also practical at the right time. Choose anything from the sporty BMW Z4 to the BMW X7 for a family vehicle. While these are higher priced, they are ninth on the reliability ranking.
8. Porsche
- Reliability ranking out of 100: 66
Porsche isn’t affordable to many buyers, but that doesn’t mean these cars aren’t reliable. The company has sports models like the Cayman and the Boxster roadster, but they’ve also branched into sedans and SUVs. Porsche only uses premium products and with regular maintenance and servicing these cars are extremely reliable. Most report that a Porsche will last 10 years or 150,000 miles with little need for repair. If your budget allows it, consider the Cayenne, the Taycan, or the Panamera.
7. Mazda
- Reliability ranking out of 100: 67
The company makes fun-to-drive cars, yet relies on efficient engine technology and lightweight construction for more fuel efficiency. These cars handle the road better than expected and come in a diverse range, from sports cars all the way to SUVs. Mazda also offers a hybrid SUV. Some names you may recognize include the Miata, the CX-5, and the retired Tribute.
6. Subaru
- Reliability ranking out of 100: 69
Subaru is a Japanese automaker known for practical, affordable, and unpretentious all-wheel-drive vehicles. They have easy access, roomy interiors, intuitive controls, great visibility, and good fuel economy. Subaru consistently ranks high in reliability, from the Impreza sedan to the Outback SUV.
5. Honda
Reliability ranking out of 100: 70
Honda offers an engaging driving experience and a competitive fuel economy through energetic powertrain technology. Models that consumers love include the Odyssey van, the CR-V small SUB, the Pilot SUV, and the Accord sedan. They hold their value, meet high safety standards, and have low repair costs. Many drivers have seen Hondas pass several hundred thousand miles with minimal repairs.
4. Acura
Reliability ranking out of 100: 70
Acura is the premium brand of Honda and makes both cars and SUVs with similar technology. These vehicles are known for their fuel efficiency ratings, low repair costs, and notable safety features. Consumers only had one complaint with the Acura — the controls are sometimes frustrating. While the Acura is a luxury brand, it’s more affordable than other luxury vehicles, making them more accessible to the average consumer. Choose from the TLX, the RDX, the MDX, and many others.
3. Mini
Reliability ranking out of 100: 71
The Mini is engineered and designed by BMW and comes in third on the reliability scale. Offering the charm of a British vehicle that’s available all over the world, the brand is shifting its focus to electrics. This means the new Mini Cooper will be followed in 2025 by the electric Countryman. Mini also makes the Paceman, the Cooper Clubman, and the Aceman.
2. Toyota
Reliability ranking out of 100: 76
Toyota vehicles are known for being reliable, efficient, and solid. Consumers rave about the easy access, quiet cabins, impressive gas mileage, and comfortable rides. The company is currently working on a new Tacoma and Land Cruiser, and a redesigned Camry. These models come with a hybrid option to balance efficiency and power. Popular Toyotas include the Corolla, the Prius, the 4Runner, and the Highlander.
1. Lexus
Reliability ranking out of 100: 79
Lexus claims to have a flawless quality control process, and they may be right since they came in first in the report. The company subjects each car to a rigorous testing protocol to make sure they all meet the high standards. Lexus was built and developed by Toyota, one of the most respected automakers in the business. Lexus functions as the luxury version of Toyota and includes the ES, ES Hybrid, NX, NX Hybrid, RX, RX Hybrid, and the UX.
As you set off on your search to find the right car, remember that it doesn’t have to be brand new to be reliable. While many of those discussed here are newer models, the beauty of a reliable car is that it holds its resale value and will last through several owners. A used car can be just as valuable as a brand-new car and can save you thousands, but we encourage you to stick with a brand in the top ten on the reliability factor.
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