Cars - Autos Grind

The most reliable cars you can buy right now are the Lexus ES, Porsche 718 Boxster, and Toyota Corolla, all scoring 92 or higher out of 100 in J.D. Power's reliability ratings. The automotive market is filled with every kind of option for buyers, but many companies nowadays focus more on pleasing the eyes rather than building cars strong and reliable. This doesn't bother some buyers, like vintage car fans or those who want sporty rides where reliability isn't the top concern. But for people buying a family car or something for everyday use, the only thing that should remain constant is how dependable the car is. Most Dependable Car Models for 2026 This article will look at the 10 top reliable cars that won't let you down in any situation. The cars might not look flashy, but they'll surely save a ton of money in the long run. Especially if you're buying your first car while being budget-conscious, this list is surely gonna help you choose the best one. Let's have a look.... 10. 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 84/100 You can get the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander hybrid model in addition to the flush gasoline variant. This compact SUV is commodious inside, with lots of new technology, while being backed by Mitsubishi's leading industry warranty. The 2024 Outlander received a J.D. A power quality and reliability rating of 82 out of 100 shows which is why it's on our list today. This is further highlighted by Mitsubishi's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, evoking confidence in the brand's robustness for this car. The base model 2024 Outlander features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 181 horsepower and gives a mileage of 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Standard safety features also come in Outlander: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems featuring MI-PILOT Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance and traffic sign recognition. DrivetrainFWD/AWDUsed Car Cost$15,000 - $30,990 (depending on trims)J.D. Power Reliability Rating84/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$519 (RepairPal)Recalls0NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating You May Also Read: Best Cars Under $30k 9. 2024 Chevrolet Malibu J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 85/100 While it might not top the charts of reliability, it is very well balanced between features and dependability. Based on quality and reliability alone, J.D. Power gave the 2024 Malibu an 84 out of 100 score. The Malibu is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine that puts out 160 horsepower providing a smooth and resourceful highway drive. The Malibu returns mpg ratings of 29 mpg in the city and up to 36 mpg on the highway, making it workable enough for everyday driving. Safety conveniences abound with the availability of Chevy Safety Assist, which includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and IntelliBeam auto high beam assist. DrivetrainFWDNew Car Cost$19,000 - $30,000J.D. Power Reliability Rating84/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$532 (RepairPal)Recalls1NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating 8. 2017 BMW 2 Series J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 88/100 People often think that BMWs are not reliable, but BMW is constantly proving this wrong, being in the top charts for reliability ranking. The 2017 BMW 2 Series is a great example– with the J.D. Power reliability ranking of 88/100, it's one of the coolest and most reliable BMWs you can get this year. Apart from its thrilling driving dynamics, the 2 Series offers a well-thought-out interior and the advanced technological features that German brands are known for. Under the hood, it features a B48 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four powering the 2 Series, sucking in enough air to produce 248 horsepower in the 230i model letting it run a 0-60 mph sprint in roughly 5.6 seconds. This model returns fuel economy estimates of 24 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. Safety features include a strong airbag system, stability control, and driver assistance technologies, such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. DrivetrainRWDUsed Car Cost$14,835 - $29,989J.D. Power Reliability Rating88/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$968 (RepairPal)Recalls0NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating Suggested: BMW Maintenance Cost 7. 2021 Honda Civic J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 86/100 From 2016 - 2019, Civic models got mixed reviews(mostly hating) on reliability and were loathed by the buyers. The newer gen models of the Honda Civic have improved massively in terms of reliability. The 2021 Civic gets a rating of 82 out of 100 for quality and reliability from J.D. Power. Longevity is lofty, as many Civic models run well into the 200,000-mile bracket with minor problems. For 2021, several different engine options exist for the Civic. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 158 horsepower; a stronger 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 180 horsepower. The 2021 Civic is pretty efficient, boasting up to 33 MPG in the city and up to 42 MPG on the highway. The safety features consist of a multi-angle rearview camera, Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, and the Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, which adds better protection in case of a crash. DrivetrainFWDUsed Car Cost$16,583 - $37,658J.D. Power Reliability Rating86/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$368 (RepairPal)Recalls3NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating You Might Also Like: Best Small Hybrid Cars 6. 2024 Kia Sportage J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 84/100 KIA has significantly improved in the field of reliability, and this 2024 Sportage stands as proof of such success. The two SUVs Kia launched are the gas and hybrid models. The Hybrid model is also one of the most affordable hybrid SUVs that you can get. The Sportage's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty stands among the best in this class. It earns 84 out of 100 for the J.D. Power quality and reliability rating. Kia's With its 2.5-liter inline-four doling out 187 horsepower, the new 2024 Sportage struck a pretty good balance between power and efficiency. Having up to 25 MPG in the city and up to 32 MPG on the highway, the Sportage surely is one to reckon with in the compact SUV segment. Offered for safety are Kia's DriveWise driver-assist technology suite, which offers forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist. DrivetrainAvailable in both FWD and AWDNew Car Cost$19,900 to $43,000 (depending on trims)J.D. Power Reliability Rating84/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$462 (RepairPal)Recalls2NHTSA Safety Rating5 stars overall 5. 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 93/100 The 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster is one of the few sports cars that have proven themselves in the long run. It's among the most reliable roadster choices, with a J.D. Power reliability rating of 93/100 — most by any sports car! Under the hood, the 718 Boxter gives different engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four (300 HP), a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four (350 HP), and a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (394 HP). It's smooth enough to provide consistent performance without the finicky nature of high-strung competitors, and Porsche's exacting build quality guarantees long-lasting components and few mechanical glitches. Add to that its responsive handling, top-down exhilaration, and daily driveability, and you have a rarity: a roadster with driving focus that won't strand you—just a smile. DrivetrainRWDUsed Car Cost$56,995 - $90,000J.D. Power Reliability Rating93/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$1,192 (RepairPal)Recalls6NHTSA Safety RatingNot Rated 4. 2021 Toyota 4Runner J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 88/100 In a world of fragile and disposable cars, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner like most Toyotas are areassuringly stubborn relic of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” logic. Built to thrive where other SUVs falter, its old-school body-on-frame design and time-tested 4.0L V6 engine—unchanged for over a decade prioritize bulletproof durability over flashy innovation, earning it a cult-like following among off-roaders and daily drivers alike. While its 5-speed transmission and basic tech feel dated, this simplicity is its strength: fewer complex parts mean fewer breakdowns, and Toyota’s legendary build quality ensures it shrugs off rough terrain, harsh weather, and years of neglect. Maintenance costs are refreshingly low for its class, and repair shops rarely see 4Runners with major issues. J.D. Power gives it 88 out of 100, and its sky-high resale value (often over 70% after three years) proves its staying power. DrivetrainRWDUsed Car Cost$35,000 - $44,000J.D. Power Reliability Rating93/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$514 (RepairPal)Recalls1NHTSA Safety Rating4 Star Overall 3. 2019 Hyundai Sonata J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 89/100 If you're looking for a reliable midsize sedan, the 2019 Hyundai Sonata is a great choice and value for money. Not only is the design stylish, but it combines both reliability and contemporary features that buyers want. It gets the J.D. Power quality and reliability rating of 89/100. Additionally, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty underscores the Sonata's durability. It comes fitted with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder unit capable of producing 185 horsepower, giving overall balanced performance. The fuel efficiency is also nice, burning fuel at 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. Safety features include blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, all contributing to its IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. DrivetrainFWDUsed Car Cost$9,299 - $21,788J.D. Power Reliability Rating89/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$458 (RepairPal)Recalls0NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating Also Read: Best Electric SUVs 2. 2017 Lexus ES J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 96/100 The 2017 Lexus ES truly embodies the reliability and luxury of the brand. The midsize sedan comes with an upscale interior, comfortable ride quality, and impeccable build quality. For this, the rating for quality and reliability by J.D. Power stands at 89 out of 100, so the ES usually gets labeled as one of the most reliable luxury sedans. As a matter of fact, most Lexus vehicles are seen to serve their owners rather well, with the ES often crossing 200,000 miles if well taken care of. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine fitted with 268 horsepower for a smooth and strong drive. Besides this, fuel economy is very remarkable, registering 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Safety-wise, the Lexus Safety System+ comes standard and includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, a lane departure alert with steering assist, and intelligent high beams. DrivetrainFWDUsed Car Cost$14,981 to $29,995J.D. Power Reliability Rating96/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$551 (RepairPal)Recalls1NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating Also Read: BMW vs Lexus 1. 2019 Toyota Corolla J.D. Power Reliability Rating: 92/100 Corolla has always been one of the most dependable cars in the compact car category, and the 2019 Toyota Corolla is no exception when it comes to reliability. It also has great fuel efficiency, giving 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. Under the hood, the 2019 Corolla comes with a lackluster-sounding 139 horsepower from the 1.8-liter four-cylinder. It receives the J.D. Power reliability rating of 92 out of 100. You will have no problem going over 200,000 miles if it is maintained properly along the way. The 2019 Corolla also comes with standard features like Toyota's Safety Sense P (TSS-P) system - pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection and lane departure alert. DrivetrainFWDUsed Car Cost$15,000 - $19,000J.D. Power Reliability Rating92/100Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost$381 (RepairPal)Recalls6NHTSA Safety Rating5-Star Overall Rating You May Also Check: Porsche Macan vs Cayenne Most Reliable Car Brands in 2026 Now you know the most reliable models you can, but let's make an obvious choice by choosing any car from the car brands that are known to be the most reliable in the long run... Here are the 12 car brands that score above the industry average for reliability, including both everyday and luxury brands. The data is secured from multiple studies, like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports 12. Honda Most Reliable Model: Honda Civic (2020-present) Most Fun to Drive: Honda Civic Type R Least Reliable Honda Model: Honda Accord (2013, 2018) 11. Kia Most Reliable Model: Kia Sportage (2021-present) Most Fun to Drive: 2025 Kia K4 Least Reliable Kia Model: Kia Sportage diesel (2016-2021) 10. Mini Most Reliable Model: Mini hatchback (2014–2024) Most Fun to Drive: Any MINI Cooper Model Least Reliable Mini Model: Mini Cooper (2005, 2010, 2014) 9. BMW Most Reliable Model: BMW 3 Series Most Fun to Drive: BMW M3 Least Reliable BMW Model: BMW 550i (F10, 2011 - 2013) 8. Porsche Most Reliable Model: Porsche 718 Boxster Most Powerful: Porsche Taycan Turbo GT Weissach Least Reliable Porsche Model: 2025 Porsche Taycan 7. GMC Most Reliable Model: GMC Sierra 2500 Most Fun to Drive: GMC Hummer EV Least Reliable GMC Model: GMC Canyon 6. Chevrolet Most Reliable Model: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LD Most Fun to Drive: Chevrolet Corvette Least Reliable Chevrolet Model: Chevrolet Colorado 5. Cadillac Most Reliable Model: Cadillac Escalade Most Fun to Drive: Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Least Reliable Cadillac Model: Cadillac CT6 4. Toyota Most Reliable Model: Toyota Aygo X (2021–present) Most Fun to Drive: Toyota GR Corolla Most Expensive: Toyota Tundra Platinum 3. Mazda Most Reliable Model: Mazda CX-5 Most Fun to Drive: Mazda MX-5 Miata Least Reliable Mazda Model: Mazda CX-60 (2022–present) 2. Buick Most Reliable Model: Buick Enclave Most Efficient: Buick Encore GX Most Fun to Drive: Buick Enclave 1. Lexus Most Reliable Model: Lexus LX 600 Most Fun to Drive: Lexus IS Least Expensive: Lexus UX 300h Hybrid Image from J.D. Power Q&A What are the most reliable cars you can buy? Based on J.D. Power reliability ratings, the top scorers are the Lexus ES (96/100), Porsche 718 Boxster (93/100), and Toyota Corolla (92/100). Which car brand is the most reliable overall? Lexus ranks highest, with the LX 600 as its most reliable model, followed by Buick and Mazda. Is BMW a reliable brand? Yes, contrary to its reputation. The BMW 3 Series is BMW's most reliable model, and the brand ranks 9th overall among reliable brands in this data. What's the cheapest reliable car to maintain? The 2021 Honda Civic, at $368/year average maintenance cost per RepairPal, is the lowest of any car on this list.

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