20 MOST RELIABLE SUVS ACCORDING TO CONSUMER REPORTS

  • When choosing an SUV, rely on crowdsourced information from current and past owners for the most accurate insight on reliability.
  • Avoid discrepancies in reliability ratings by considering multiple sources like Consumer Reports, Repair Pal, and Car Edge.
  • Check out the most dependable SUV models on the market, considering factors like maintenance costs, recalls, and model years to avoid.

You buy an SUV to get family, friends, luggage, and pets from point A to point B without worrying about having the right amount of space. The big worry is whether the vehicle will get you around reliably without leaving you and your family stranded by the roadside. According to Consumer Reports, the best way to know if vehicles are what they're cracked up to be is by crowdsourcing the information from current and past owners. They are the ones with experience living with the vehicles, after all.

There are a few other reputable companies that also give ratings for various cars, but most of them are about levels of reliability through personal testing and opinions, which may lead to discrepancies and inaccuracies due to the nature of how the reliability tests are conducted.

With SUVs overtaking sedans as the vehicle of choice in recent years, and as electric and hybrid power are thrown into the mix, you must be wondering which models are the most dependable. Let's take a look at some of the most reliable SUVs on the market, nit-picking maintenance costs, recalls, and most of all, which years to avoid.

UPDATE: 2024/03/10

20 Most Reliable SUVs According To Consumer Reports

One of the most important traits of any vehicle is its reliability. Especially SUVs, which many people use as family haulers. This is why we have refreshed this list. We hope this list can help in the search for your next dependable SUV.

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In compiling this article, we have cross-referenced information for vehicle reliability, and maintenance costs from Consumer Reports, Repair Pal, and Car Edge to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Please note that we have ranked the following models based on predicted reliability scores for the 2024 model year (2023 for discontinued models), going from least to most reliable.

2024 Ford Escape Hybrid

Predicted Reliability Score: 43/100

Hybrids are among the most popular choices for consumers who are environmentally conscious but still need the use of an internal combustion engine. The Ford Escape Hybrid is driven by a 2.5-liter three-cylinder with cylinder deactivation to improve fuel efficiency and is paired by a single electric motor that switches between functioning as the main propulsion system or assist the gasoline three-cylinder.

Reliability

For 2024, the Escape has a predicted reliability score of 43/100. Previously, the door seals leaked allowing road noise and moisture into the cabin, which made the interior not an ideal place to be.

  • The 2024 Ford Escape Hybrid received an overall score of 70/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $775 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,721 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A 2023 was the first model year

2024 Ford Expedition

Predicted Reliability Score: 43/100

The Ford Expedition has been a long-standing name for SUVs. Ford's full-size ladder-frame SUV is available in two sizes. A standard three-row or the bigger Expedition Max that provides even more interior space. Regardless of size, the Expedition comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 that makes 440 horsepower and is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission with an option for four-wheel drive.

Reliability

In terms of reliability, the Expedition rates for a predicted reliability score of 43/100 for 2024. It enjoys a strong fan base, which indicates buyer satisfaction, but the Expedition isn't without its faults. Earlier models suffered from a variety of issues including engine problems, paint and body issues, and some reports of problems with its windows and windshield.

  • The 2024 Ford Expedition received an overall score of 60/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $861 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $9,443 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 1
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015 (engine problems, paint and body issues, windshield and window problems)

2024 Lincoln Corsair

Predicted Reliability Score: 45/100

The Lincoln Corsair is based on the same platform as the Ford Escape but with the added luxury and upgrades expected from a Lincoln. There are numerous engine options to choose from, including a hybrid in the Grand Touring trim. The Corsair offers a plush experience, as expected from an upscale Lincoln.

Reliability

The Lincoln Corsair has a predicted reliability score of 45/100. The only reported issue with the Corsair centers on in-car electronics, which is a common, but small concern that seems to affect many of the newer vehicles on sale. As the newest innovative technology makes its way into cars, it's inevitable to encounter a few glitches, especially when cameras, sensors, and high-tech infotainment systems are involved.

  • The 2024 Lincoln Corsair received an overall score of 72/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $879 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $11,121 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 1 (engine vapor in a stalled vehicle may cause a fire)
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2021 (paint trim, noises when driving, water leaks)
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2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

Predicted Reliability Score: 46/100

Hyundai has done well to turn its brand image around from its earlier days. And this shows, not only in the quality of their current vehicles but also in the reliability department. The Hyundai Santa Fe is just one of the proofs of the Korean automaker's efforts. Powering the SUV is a choice of four engines; two hybrid options and two conventional turbocharged gasoline engines.

Reliability

The Hyundai Santa Fe has a predicted reliability score of 46/100 for 2023. For the first year of the last generation, the Santa Fe suffered from a few issues including windshield problems when it rains, and some reports of engine stalling while driving.

  • The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe received an overall score of 77/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $515 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,056 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 2
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2019 (windshield and windows concerns, engine issues, interior accessories, and electrical issues)

2024 Kia EV6

Predicted Reliability Score: 48/100

The Kia EV6 shares its platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Powering the EV is either a single motor at its rear axle or a duo of electric motors on each axle, effectively making the EV6 an all-wheel drive SUV; an all-wheel drive SUV that can be unleashed as a sports car, if you opt for the GT trim.

Reliability

Consumer Reports gave the SUV a predicted reliability score of 48/100 for 2024. The only complaint about the SUV is premature brake pad wear, which could be due to hard driving, which wouldn't be surprising in a sporty SUV.

  • The 2024 Kia EV6 received an overall score of 77/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $474 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $4,740 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A; both production years have been reliable

2024 Honda Passport

Predicted Reliability Score: 48/100

The Passport is Honda's entrant into the mid-size SUV segment and has been a fairly solid choice. Essentially a scaled-down Honda Pilot, the Passport is a versatile SUV powered by a beefy 280 horsepower V-6 partnered with a nine-speed automatic transmission; a combo borrowed from the bigger Pilot. And for 2023, all-wheel drive became standard in its base EX-L trim.

Reliability

The Honda Passport received a predicted reliability score of 48/100 for 2024, and with no major updates for this year. With a solid track record of average reliability, the Honda Passport is still a sound choice for an SUV.

  • 2024 Honda Passport received an overall score of 70/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $392 (RepairPal) - had to compute based on CarEdge info, RepairPal has not yet reviewed the Passport
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,283 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 6 (CarComplaints)
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2019 (exterior sensors, engine start/stop issues,
  • infotainment issues) (CarComplaints)
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2024 Lexus NX

Predicted Reliability Score: 49/100

The Lexus NX comes with four engine choices, two traditional ICE engines and two high-tech hybrids, one of those latter two being a plug-in hybrid. Standard combustion is care of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder while higher trims can be had with a turbocharged 2.4-liter. The NX rides smoothly, and its interior is plush as expected of a Lexus. An updated infotainment system now stacks up to the needs of the modern public.

Reliability

The 2024 Lexus NX received a predicted reliability score of 49/100. Either hybrid engine choice gives you excellent mileage, with the only reported issues being exterior build quality. The previous year's model also had reported concerns about in-car electronics, so expect a few minor hiccups with the 2023 model, if any.

  • The 2024 Lexus NX received an overall score of 72/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $690 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,136 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2016 (minor engine issues, cooling system, and window assembly problems)

2023 Mazda CX-9

Predicted Reliability Score: 55/100

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 is not only reliable and fun to drive, it is also slightly more fuel efficient than much of its competition in its segment, thanks to the turbocharged 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G inline-four compared to most in the class that use a six-cylinder.

Reliability

For 2023, Consumer Reports rated the CX-9 with a 55/100 for predicted reliability. The only real problem with the Mazda CX-9 is with its in-car electronics, including cameras and sensors. Considering its previous rating, due to issues with the in-car electronics, it would be hard to score the CX-9 higher.

  • The 2023 Mazda CX-9 received an overall score of 73/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $462 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,574 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2014 (in-car electronics, rattles when driving, drivetrain and body hardware, engine, paint and trim)

2023 Lincoln Nautilus

Predicted Reliability Score: 57/100

The twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 is one of the most punchy engines in the Nautilus range. It also has plenty of pep to get out of its own weight.

Reliability

For 2023, Consumer Reports predicted a reliability score of 57/100, with an overall score of 75. The only issues reported by owners are within the edges of body panels that tend to peel paint and start to rust, a common issue known among Ford vehicles.

  • The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus received an overall score of 75/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $879 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $11,326 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 1 (rear shock absorbers may have been manufactured incorrectly)
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2019
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2024 Mazda CX-5

Predicted Reliability Score: 65/100

The Mazda CX-5, now in its second generation, has kept most of its sporty dynamics while improving its practicality as a viable compact crossover. The standard powertrain offers 187 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed automatic which should be adequate for the use case of the SUV. If you're after blinding speed, the CX-5 might not be the best choice, but it will definitely fit the bill as a dependable, well-made, all-around SUV.

Reliability

Last year, you may have heard about the issues in the Mazda CX-5 regarding its braking system, especially linked to the automatic braking in line with the safety software. Numerous people had the brakes fail, resulting in accidents. Mazda claims to have rectified the problem, so Consumer Reports leaves the Mazda CX-5 with a predicted reliability score of 65/100.

  • The 2024 Mazda CX-5 received an overall score of 75/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $462 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,339 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2013 Mazda CX-5 (Powertrain Control Module, oil leaks, ABS system failure, electrical system, and transmission issues)

2024 Lexus RX Hybrid

Predicted Reliability Score: 69/100

A solid testament to their superior build quality and over-engineering. Another example on the list is the Lexus RX Hybrid. Under the hood is a dependable and economical 3.5-liter V-6 accompanied by three electric motors to improve its fuel efficiency.

Reliability

For 2024, the Lexus RX was given a predicted reliability score of 69/100. The primary concern owners have reported is related to the fuel system that tends to cause engine hesitation and stalling.

  • The 2024 Lexus RX Hybrid received an overall score of 83/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $540 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,734 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A 2023 is the first production year

2024 Toyota Corolla Cross

Predicted Reliability Score: 71/100

The Toyota Corolla Cross is relatively new to the market, being introduced only in 2022, yet it has quickly become the sensible option among a wide variety of small SUVs on sale, because of its practicality and economy. All Corolla Cross variants are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 169 horsepower while the hybrid is accompanied by three electric motors that raise total output to 196. With Toyota's reputation for dependable cars, it's not hard to see why the Corolla Cross is the vehicle of choice for many.

Reliability

While the Corolla Cross hasn't been around for long, Consumer Reports gave the 2024. model, a predicted reliability score of 71/100, but we expect this rating to go down a few spots due to several recalls regarding its airbag system. Quite surprisingly, this is the only reported issue so far about the Corolla Cross.

  • The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid received an overall score of 79/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: Not yet available (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: Not yet available (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 1
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A The Corolla Cross was just introduced in 2022
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2024 Lexus NX Hybrid

Predicted Reliability Score: 73/100

Sitting above the sub-compact UX, the NX is Lexus' answer to the compact crossover SUV segment and is available in both gas and hybrid flavors. Driving the Lexus NX Hybrid is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, assisted by an electric motor on each axle that sums up to 239 horsepower.

Reliability

With a predicted reliability score of 73/100, the only downside of the Lexus NX is that it is a little down on power compared to its competition, but aside from lacking a few electrified horses, the NX Hybrid should be perfectly livable and dependable.

  • The 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid received an overall score of 83/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,136 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2021 (Driving noises, engine leaks, minor suspension issues)

2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Predicted Reliability Score: 75/100

According to MotorTrend, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the number one in the three-row SUV segment for the year. Proof enough that even if it didn't score as high in Consumer Reports reliability ratings, it is a highly dependable SUV to own. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder partnered with twin electric motors that work in tandem, giving a combined 243 horsepower.

Reliability

Consumer Reports had their work cut out for them when rating the 2024 Highlander Hybrid for reliability. The three-row SUV was also released in the same year, thus the professionals gave a predicted reliability score of 75/100. If everything holds true, you can expect a few minor issues with in-car electronics and its climate control system.

  • The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received an overall score of 85/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $489 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,693 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: None. 2003, 2015

2024 Toyota RAV4

Predicted Reliability Score: 80/100

Back in the mid-1990s, Toyota set the precedence for unibody-based SUVs when they introduced the RAV4. These days, it's among many other crossover SUV offerings that have become the most popular segment in the market. The RAV4 still sits at the top of its class. The current generation comes with a peppy 2.5-liter engine that is one of the most powerful in its class, motivating the RAV4 from 0 to 60 in under six seconds.

Reliability

The RAV4 has a predicted reliability score of 80/100. However, since 2022, the RAV4 has consistently earned a reliability rating of a perfect five and this year is looking the same. The only reported concern of owners is regarding its ride comfort, which is still the minority and does not concern its reliability.

  • The 2024 Toyota RAV4 received an overall score of 75/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $441 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,531 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2014, 2019
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2023 Acura RDX

Predicted Reliability Score: 80/100

The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder found in the Acura RDX has enough power to propel the SUV from 0 to 60 MPH in just 7.0 seconds, all while returning acceptable fuel economy. The ten-speed automatic transmission is well suited for the SUV's purpose, shifting smoothly and without drawing attention to itself. The interior is comfortable and luxurious, while the safety technology is top-of-the-line.

Reliability

The 2024 Acura RDX was given a reliability rating a predicted reliability score of 80/100. However, for The main concern reported by consumers is unsurprisingly related to in-car electronics, including parking sensors, backup cameras, and a few pointing at the transmission. Users noticed instances of slippage when shifting through the gears. Though it isn't a symptom of impending failure, the occurrence can be annoying, regardless.

  • The 2023 Acura RDX received an overall score of 81/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $497 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $9,610 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015 Acura RDX (transmission, premature brake wear, rear suspension and major engine issues)

2024 Subaru Forester

Predicted Reliability Score: 82/100

The Subaru Forester is one of the most common SUVs bought and sold today. But the variant that stands out when it comes to reliability is the base 2.5-liter flat-four that gives great mileage but lacks the acceleration that comes with their WRX models. Even so, the Forester has plenty of real-world power to pass, merge, and deal with most driving situations.

Reliability

The 2024 Subaru Forester has a predicted reliability score of 82/100 rating from Consumer Reports. The main concerns about the Forester are related to its in-car electronics that are not only annoying to use but distracting because of its cameras and sensors.

  • The 2024 Subaru Forester received an overall score of 88/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $617 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,931 (Car Edge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2010 (cylinder head issues, air and water leaks, catalytic converter failure, timing belt, clutch)

2023 Lexus GX

Predicted Reliability Score: 83/100

Another Lexus to secure top ranks is the GX, regularly receiving high marks for reliability. It is built as an old school body-on-frame SUV with luxurious touches, making it capable on- and off-road. The GX only comes with a 4.6-liter V-8 which doesn't return efficient fuel economy but is instead quiet, powerful and most importantly, bulletproof-reliable. One thing to note is, even though the outgoing Lexus GX is built on a truck chassis, it was not designed for heavy loads, limiting its towing capacity to 6,500 pounds.

Reliability

The 2023 Lexus GX has earned a predicted reliability score of 83/100. The only fault in the Lexus that can be reported is regarding its in-car electronics. Its infotainment system is one cause for concern and so are the parking sensor and backup camera.

  • The 2023 Lexus GX received an overall score of 74/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,652 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2019 Lexus GX (paint, trim, body hardware, suspension, steering and drive systems)
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2024 Toyota 4Runner

Predicted Reliability Score: 87/100

The current generation of the Toyota 4Runner has been around for a long time and has built a healthy aftermarket surrounding itself. Throughout its life cycle, it proved itself to be just as tough and reliable as the rest of the earlier generations, driven by a 4.0-liter V-6 that makes 270 horsepower and is offered in multiple trim levels.

Reliability

The Toyota 4Runner, expectedly gets a predicted reliability score of 87/100, above the average for a mid-size SUV. A strong showing of Toyota's unquestionable dependability. But the 4Runner has its faults, with a few minor issues reported regarding paint issues, and interior trim and accessories.

  • The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received an overall score of 63/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $514 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,825 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 9
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015 (body and paint issues, brake issues, interior accessories problems)

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

Predicted Reliability Score: 99/100

One of the most popular models in Subaru's lineup is the Impreza, but that's a hatchback. But since it shares its platform and a lot of its components with the Subaru Crosstrek, it's safe to say that the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is one of the best SUVs the Japanese automaker has on sale. It features a 2.0-liter flat-four assisted by an electric motor that returns 33 miles to a gallon.

Reliability

Even though Consumer Reports has not collected enough data yet, it awarded the Crosstrek Hybrid a predicted reliability score of 99/100. Like every other vehicle on the market, the Crosstrek does have some problems reported by owners. The most common is a handling complaint on less-than-ideal road surfaces.

  • The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek received an overall score of 87/100 from Consumer Reports
  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $492 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,915 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst Year To Buy Used: 2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid (in-car electronics, rear door won't unlock, infotainment system faults)

FAQ

Q: What SUV has the least amount of problems?

Lexus is, without a doubt, one of the most reliable SUVs on the planet. Year after year, the models achieve over 90 out of 100 for reliability. Overall, as everything sits now, the best SUV to buy that has the least amount of problems is the 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid.

Q: What is the number one SUV in America?

The current best-selling SUV on the market is the Toyota RAV-4, beating out the Honda CR-V for the top spot by almost 25,000 examples so far. Of course, this sales level could change by the end of the day, but for now, Toyota is the top dog.

Q: What SUV gets the best fuel economy?

The 2022 Ford Hybrid Escape is the SUV with the best fuel economy. The internal combustion engine, plus the electric motors, can get a combined fuel mileage of 40. The hybrid motor alone can go 37 miles without the aid of the fuel-driven motor, but that does not actually count when wanting to know the fuel mileage. Either way, the Ford Hybrid Escape is the best on the market through 2022.

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