In 2022, crossovers and SUVs accounted for nearly 53% of passenger vehicle sales in the United States, translating to about 7.3 million SUVs sold in just one year. This is more than the combined sales of sedans, hatchbacks, and pickup trucks.
Monocoque crossovers and body-on-frame SUVs combine the advantages of sedans and compact pickup trucks into a single package. Some crossover SUVs, for example, offer passenger comfort and maneuverability that rival family sedans.
These same SUVs may also provide higher ground clearance, more space for passengers and cargo, higher tow ratings, and better road visibility than many compact or midsize pickup trucks.
Additionally, studies on vehicular accidents have shown that, during frontal crashes, occupants of crossovers and SUVs tend to be better protected compared to those in sedans and hatchbacks.
Given their size, versatility, and popularity, crossovers and SUVs are generally more expensive than the average family sedan or work truck. As a result, many Americans turn to the used car market to find the best deals on used SUVs for sale, helping them avoid paying a premium at dealerships.
Affordable SUVs With Solid Engines
When shopping for a used SUV, it’s crucial to prioritize the vehicle’s reliability. A reliable SUV, car, or truck can save you from costly and unexpected repair and maintenance expenses down the line.
However, while it may be easy to spot an SUV’s rust spots or hear the squeaky springs and hinges, identifying engine problems isn’t as straightforward.
You won’t be able to assess the engine’s health until you’ve driven the vehicle under different conditions for some time. This is where expert reliability ratings and consumer reviews become valuable tools.
5. 2017 GMC Terrain
The 2017 GMC Terrain represents the final model year of the nameplate’s first generation, which was previously classified as a midsize crossover (it shifted to the compact class in 2018). For 2017, the Terrain featured a standard 2.4-liter I-4 engine (182 hp, 172 lb-ft of torque) and an optional 3.6-liter V6 engine (301 hp, 272 lb-ft).
By the time the 2017 model was released, the Terrain had already addressed most of the reliability issues found in earlier versions.
Consumer Reports awarded the 2017 Terrain a perfect 5/5 reliability rating in both the “engine major” and “engine cooling” categories, meaning the major engine components (engine block, intake/exhaust manifolds, timing chain, turbocharger, etc.) and cooling system (radiator, coolant lines, water pump, etc.) were highly reliable.
The Terrain received a 4/5 score in the “engine minor” category, indicating that while there were some minor engine issues (such as with engine mounts, oil seals, pulleys, and ECU), the overall reliability remained strong. The 2017 GMC Terrain is currently priced between $13,950 and $18,475 in the used car market.
4. The 2014 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4, recognized as the world’s best-selling SUV in 2022, is featured on this list of SUVs known for their reliable engines. For the 2014 model year, the gasoline-powered Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter engine that delivered 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque.
Consumer Reports awarded the 2014 RAV4 a perfect 5/5 reliability rating in both the major and minor engine categories. However, some issues with the water pump led to a slightly lower reliability score of 4/5 in the engine cooling category.
Despite this, CR still gave the 2014 Toyota RAV4 an overall reliability score of 5/5, and J.D. Power rated its reliability as “average” with a score of 79/100, just two points short of a “great” score (81-90). Today, a used 2014 Toyota RAV4 typically sells for between $14,250 and $16,425.
Also Read: Best 10 4×4 Cars to Drive in 2025 Offering Comfort and Off-Road Capability
3. The 2012 Lexus RX
In 2022, the Lexus RX was the best-selling luxury vehicle in America. For the 2012 model year, this luxury crossover SUV came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generated 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque in the purely internal combustion engine (ICE) variant.
The hybrid version of the Lexus RX paired the same V6 with an electric motor, boosting the total system output to 295 horsepower.
The 2012 Lexus RX earned a 5/5 reliability rating for both the major engine components and its cooling system. However, it received a 4/5 score in the minor engine category, mainly due to some reported oil leaks.
Despite this, Consumer Reports still awarded the 2012 Lexus RX a perfect 5/5 overall reliability score, and J.D. Power followed suit with an impressive 89/100 quality and reliability rating. Given these stellar ratings, it’s no surprise that this 11-year-old midsize luxury SUV continues to sell for between $14,725 and $15,775 in the used car market.
2. The 2011 Toyota Highlander
The 2011 Toyota Highlander is a midsize family SUV with a capacity to seat seven passengers, offering three engine choices: two gasoline engines and one hybrid powertrain.
The base inline-4 engine generates 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the 2011 Highlander Hybrid also produces 270 horsepower, powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with two electric motors.
Consumer Reports (CR) awarded the 2011 Toyota Highlander a perfect 5/5 reliability rating for both the major engine and cooling systems. However, a few oil leak issues led to a slightly lower score of 4/5 in the engine minor category.
Despite these minor concerns, the 2011 Highlander remains a highly dependable vehicle, earning an overall 5/5 reliability score from CR. Additionally, J.D. Power rated it 81/100 for quality and reliability. In today’s used car market, the 2011 Highlander is valued between $11,475 and $14,225.
1. The 2008 Toyota 4Runner
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is another example of Toyota’s commitment to producing durable vehicles. It marked the second-to-last model year of the 4th generation of this body-on-frame, off-road-capable midsize SUV (2002-2009).
For 2008, the 4Runner came equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced 260 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. A smaller V6 engine option was also available, generating 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.
Consumer Reports gave the 2008 Toyota 4Runner perfect 5/5 reliability ratings in all engine-related categories and an overall 5/5 reliability score.
J.D. Power also awarded the 4Runner a strong 87/100 quality and reliability rating. As of today, the 2008 Toyota 4Runner still commands prices between $11,400 and $13,600 in the used car market.
While some of the most popular SUVs on the market may seem like great choices, popularity doesn’t always correlate with reliability.
As we progress further into 2023 and testing of the new models for the year continues, the list of least reliable SUVs has shifted significantly from 2022. However, models such as the Volkswagen Taos and Kia Sorento remain among the least reliable options available.
All of the vehicles on this list have either demonstrated reliability problems in previous years or are already facing complaints and recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
If you’re in the market for a new SUV and want to avoid reliability concerns, it’s worth reconsidering any of the models featured on this list.
Unreliable Affordable SUVs
While some of the most popular SUVs on the market may seem like great choices, popularity doesn’t always correlate with reliability.
As we progress further into 2023 and testing of the new models for the year continues, the list of least reliable SUVs has shifted significantly from 2022. However, models such as the Volkswagen Taos and Kia Sorento remain among the least reliable options available.
All of the vehicles on this list have either demonstrated reliability problems in previous years or are already facing complaints and recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
If you’re in the market for a new SUV and want to avoid reliability concerns, it’s worth reconsidering any of the models featured on this list.
5. 2023 Nissan Pathfinder
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder has a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5. This mid-sized SUV entered its fifth generation with the 2022 model year, following a hiatus in 2021.
The vehicle’s handling has significantly improved thanks to a wider stance, but this has come at the cost of a rougher ride when driving on the road.
The 2023 Pathfinder offers a more refined engine compared to its predecessors, which is paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission.
While there was considerable optimism surrounding the updated model, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder experienced multiple issues according to Consumer Reports. These problems included difficulties with the in-car electronics, power equipment, body hardware, and significant transmission concerns.
On the positive side, the engine lineup was deemed relatively reliable. Despite this, the Pathfinder earned a poor reliability score of 1 out of 5 for the 2022 model, and the 2023 model is expected to have the same low reliability score.
In terms of maintenance, the average yearly maintenance cost for the Pathfinder is $500, according to RepairPal.
Over the first 10 years of ownership, estimated maintenance costs are projected to be around $7,558, based on CarEdge’s calculations. The vehicle has also had one recall for broken welds on the seats.
As for the worst year to buy a used Pathfinder, the 2017 model is the least recommended due to numerous issues with the electric fan, antilock brake system, transmission sensor, engine, transmission, drive system, and climate controls.
4. 2023 Ford Explorer
The 2023 Ford Explorer has a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5. Entering its sixth generation with the 2022 model year, the Ford Explorer looked fresh, attractive, and more refined on the outside.
However, once you start examining the vehicle more closely, it becomes clear that Ford may have taken a step backward with this model. The transmission is clunky, the engine produces excessive noise, and the suspension is stiff, resulting in a harsh ride on the inside.
The Explorer has been plagued by a variety of issues, particularly with in-car electronics, power equipment, body hardware, and overall body integrity. There have also been consistently reported minor transmission problems.
Consumer Reports gave the 2020 and 2021 Ford Explorer a dismal 1 out of 5 reliability rating, though the 2022 model saw a slight improvement to 2 out of 5. Despite this, the 2023 Ford Explorer is predicted to maintain a low reliability score of 1 out of 5.
In terms of maintenance, the average yearly maintenance cost for the Explorer is $775, according to RepairPal. Over the first 10 years, estimated maintenance costs are projected to reach $9,017, based on CarEdge’s calculations.
The vehicle has also been subject to three recalls, involving the backup camera and powertrain. The 2016 Ford Explorer is the worst year to buy used, with widespread issues reported in areas like air and water leaks, paint, trim, steering, suspension, drive system, climate controls, transmission, and body hardware.
Also Read: Top 10 High-Performance Automatic Cars of 2025
3. 2023 Kia Sorento
The 2023 Kia Sorento also carries a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5. Kia has built a reputation for offering some of the most affordable vehicles compared to competitors in the same segment, but as the oldest carmaker in Korea, the company has had plenty of time to perfect its vehicles.
However, in an effort to keep costs down, this often leads to noticeable compromises for the buyer. For example, the 2023 Kia Sorento, priced as low as $30,000, delivers a rough ride, is noisy, and is slow to accelerate, which may leave some buyers feeling dissatisfied with the performance.
The Kia Sorento has had ongoing reliability issues since the early 2010s, and the 2023 model is no different. It has received an estimated reliability rating of just 5 out of 100 due to recurring problems seen in previous model years, which Kia has yet to resolve.
The main issues with the 2023 model involve the transmission and drivetrain, but there are also significant and minor concerns with the engine components of the hybrid SUV.
The average yearly maintenance cost for the 2023 Sorento is $474, according to RepairPal. Over the first 10 years, estimated maintenance costs are expected to reach $7,953, as per CarEdge’s estimates. The Sorento has had one recall, related to a trailer hitch harness fire hazard.
The worst year to buy a used Kia Sorento is the 2014 model, which has had problems with ABS, brake calipers, air-conditioning condenser, paint, trim, engine, engine computer, and body hardware.
The 2023 Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and efficiency. It is available in five trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, with options for front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
The Sorento is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are available, providing improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
In terms of reliability, the 2023 Sorento has received mixed reviews. Consumer Reports has given it a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5, indicating potential concerns with the vehicle’s dependability. However, J.D. Power has rated it 81 out of 100, suggesting a more favorable outlook on its reliability.
Common issues reported by owners include problems with the rearview camera, engine performance, transmission, and electrical systems.
In August 2023, Kia issued a recall for certain Sorento models due to a safety-related issue with the rearview camera’s mounting clips, which may break and cause the camera’s image to fail to display correctly on the vehicle’s screen.
Despite these concerns, the Sorento offers a comfortable ride, a well-appointed interior, and a suite of standard and available features, making it a competitive option in the midsize SUV segment. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
2. 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV carries a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5. In 2022, Chevrolet introduced an updated version of the base-level Bolt, transforming it into the Chevrolet Bolt EUV.
This new model is more SUV-like and offers greater interior space for passengers or cargo, providing a smoother, more comfortable ride. Additionally, the Bolt EUV is the first General Motors product outside of the Cadillac lineup to feature the Super Cruise active driving assistance system.
While these changes sound promising, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV still struggles with reliability concerns.
Despite its attractive features, Consumer Reports assigns it a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5, possibly due to the history of issues with its electric motors in previous models. Only time will tell if these problems continue to affect the newer versions of the SUV.
The average yearly maintenance cost for the Bolt EUV is $649, as reported by RepairPal, and the estimated maintenance costs over the first 10 years are projected to reach $6,490. The vehicle has been subject to one recall due to a seatbelt pre-tensioner that could potentially cause a fire.
When considering used models, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is the least recommended year to buy, with common issues related to in-car electronics, electric motors, and air/water leaks.
1. 2023 Volkswagen Taos
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos also has a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5. The 2022 Volkswagen Taos earned the title of the most unreliable SUV in the U.S., and it is expected that the 2023 model will share similar issues.
This is due to the lack of any official updates from the company regarding improvements to address the known problems. One of the primary concerns reported by testers and owners is a noticeable delay when accelerating from a complete stop.
The main reliability issues identified by SUV owners include both major and minor engine problems, persistent issues with various electrical components (including safety features), frequent transmission failures, serious fuel system issues, and drivetrain problems that could leave drivers stranded.
These problems contributed to the Taos receiving a reliability rating of 1 out of 5 from Consumer Reports.
The average yearly maintenance cost for the 2023 Volkswagen Taos is $676, according to RepairPal, with estimated maintenance costs over the first 10 years projected at $8,166, according to CarEdge. The vehicle has not been subject to any recalls yet.
For used buyers, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos is considered the worst year to purchase, with widespread issues including engine problems, in-car electronics failures, fuel system and emissions issues, transmission trouble, unusual noises, and air and water leaks.