We analyzed data from 260 million cars sold between 2012 and 2022 and estimated the percentage of those vehicles likely to still be on the road at 250,000 miles (approximately the maximum lifespan for a car).
The findings generally align with the common perceptions. Of the top 20 vehicles, 11 are manufactured by either Toyota or Honda. Additionally, 10 of the top 12 are body-on-frame trucks and SUVs.
It’s important to note that some models, such as the Toyota Sequoia and Toyota Tundra, have undergone recent updates.
While manufacturers often assert that the newer models should be just as durable as the previous versions—or even more so—that claim hasn’t been conclusively proven yet.
Cars That Are Easy To Maintain
This list can be particularly useful when considering a significantly used vehicle; for instance, a Toyota Avalon with 100,000 miles could still have many more years of reliable service left.
Ford F-350 Super Duty
The Ford F-350 Super Duty is part of the brand’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineup, offering models like the F-250 that provide a variety of configurations and customization options for work sites, towing, and off-road tasks. Starting at $44,970, it has a 49.1% chance of lasting 250,000 miles, which is 4.2 times higher than the average.
For those who tow, haul, or rely on their hands for work, the Ford Super Duty is a name that’s well known. A reliable and proven workhorse, it has been in fierce competition with the Chevrolet Silverado HD and Ram HD for decades, each vying for dominance in the lucrative HD work truck market.
In the end, it’s the consumers who benefit from this rivalry, as the continuous push for improvement elevates the entire category.
For the 2025 Ford Super Duty, this means a rugged truck with a range of cab and bed options, alongside a choice of two gasoline engines and the formidable Power Stroke diesel V-8, which comes in two performance levels, with the highest delivering 500 horsepower and 1,200 pound-feet of torque.
Available in F-250, F-350, and F-450 models, the most powerful configuration boasts an impressive maximum towing capacity of 40,000 pounds and a payload rating of 8,000 pounds.
For those who appreciate a bit of luxury to ease the workday, buyers can opt for various levels of amenities, such as a two-tone leather interior and the Max Recline seats, which allow you to rest when the boss isn’t around.
During busier times, the center console transforms into a desk, an onboard generator provides power wherever it’s needed, and a suite of safety and trailer assist features ensures everything operates smoothly and without incident.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser has returned to the American market as a smaller, more affordable midsize SUV, sharing a platform with the Lexus GX. Equipped with a new hybrid engine, it promises strong off-road capabilities and starts at $55,950.
The Land Cruiser has a 47.9% chance of lasting 250,000 miles, 4.1 times the average. The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary off-road SUV that has built a reputation for ruggedness, reliability, and luxury over several decades.
Originally introduced in 1951, the Land Cruiser has become synonymous with durability and is considered one of the most capable off-road vehicles ever produced.
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser marks the return of the nameplate to the U.S. market, but with a new, more compact design compared to its previous iterations.
This newer version is a midsize SUV, offering a more affordable entry point while still maintaining the off-road prowess the Land Cruiser is known for.
It shares its platform with the Lexus GX, and features a new hybrid engine that aims to balance power with improved fuel efficiency. The hybrid powertrain is designed to provide plenty of low-end torque, which is crucial for off-road driving, while also keeping fuel consumption in check.
In terms of luxury and comfort, the Land Cruiser offers high-end materials and a premium cabin, ensuring that it isn’t just about brute strength.
Its design combines rugged off-road capability with refined interior features, making it suitable for both outdoor adventures and urban driving. It also retains advanced safety features and modern technology, providing a solid mix of old-school durability with new-age comforts.
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot, Honda’s largest SUV, is a three-row crossover that was fully redesigned in 2023. It offers front-wheel or all-wheel drive options and seats up to eight passengers, with a starting price of $39,990. It has a 42.7% chance of lasting 250,000 miles, 3.6 times the average.
The Honda Pilot is a versatile three-row SUV that offers a range of trims and drive configurations, with options for both front- and all-wheel drive. With its reasonable power and six available trims, it appeals to buyers looking for variety in a family SUV.
While the higher-end trims come with added luxury features that drive up the price, many buyers tend to favor the lower- and mid-level trims for their value.
The TrailSport trim stands out with its improved looks and usability, but the Black Edition, a new option for 2025, is simply an appearance package that costs $1,500 and doesn’t add any extra features.
In terms of cost to drive, the 2025 Honda Pilot Sport (3.5L 6-cylinder, 10-speed automatic) has an estimated monthly driving cost of $175, based on 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving and a gas price of $3.16 per gallon in North Dakota. This is more affordable than the average monthly cost of $228 for large SUVs.
As a family vehicle, the Pilot is a solid choice for transporting passengers, though its driving experience is generally functional and lacks the standout characteristics of some of its competitors.
It doesn’t have the same ride comfort and driving dynamics as truck-based SUVs, like the Honda Ridgeline, which it shares a platform with. The Pilot faces stiff competition from other three-row SUVs, many of which offer excellent comfort and driving dynamics, making the Pilot feel somewhat average in comparison.
However, the Pilot makes up for this with its incredibly practical cabin, a wide range of trims and drive configurations, and excellent overall utility. When considering competitors, the Kia Telluride is a strong option, offering a spacious cabin with a comfortable third row, lots of tech features, and a longer warranty than the Pilot.
The Hyundai Palisade is also a top contender. For those seeking a larger SUV, the Toyota Grand Highlander or Volkswagen Atlas could be ideal choices, while the Mazda CX-90 stands out for its driving pleasure.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma, known for its off-road prowess and durability, is a rugged midsize pickup truck, with the 2024 model now available. Priced at $31,500, it has a 41.7% chance of lasting 250,000 miles, 3.5 times the average.
The Toyota Tacoma features a refined suspension and braking system, making it easy to navigate both winding roads and rugged terrain. The fourth-generation Tacoma offers improved stability and control over its predecessor.
While the lower trims maintain a responsive ride, the higher trims provide enhanced comfort for daily driving and weekend excursions. Steering feedback is exceptional, whether you’re on the road or tackling trails.
Drivers have three powertrain options to choose from. The base turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides enough power for daily use, while the upgraded version offers greater capability for tougher tasks and hauling.
The hybrid option in the lineup not only boosts fuel efficiency but also enhances overall performance. When properly equipped, the Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 pounds.
In terms of fuel economy, the Tacoma earns a solid 10.0/10 rating, achieving up to 23 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class.
Lower prices lead to lower monthly lease payments, meaning you could save around $83 per month on a 36-month lease.
Inside, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma seats up to five passengers, offering supportive front seats with ample space. The cabin materials are impressive for its class, even in the base trim. However, while the front seats are roomy, rear-seat passengers may find the space cramped.
This is especially true for the two-door, four-seat XtraCab models, and even the four-door, five-seat Double Cabs have tight rear quarters. This lack of space is typical for smaller pickup trucks.
The Tacoma stands out among its rivals by offering both 5-foot and 6-foot bed lengths, providing flexibility for different cargo needs. With a payload capacity of up to 1,700 pounds, it can handle various hauling tasks with ease. In addition to generous bed options, the Tacoma also offers ample in-cabin storage space.
GMC Sierra 2500HD
The GMC Sierra 2500HD is part of GMC’s heavy-duty pickup lineup, available in 2500HD and 3500HD models with varying payload capacities. It starts at $45,400 and has a 41.3% chance of reaching 250,000 miles, 3.5 times the average.
The 2024 GMC 2500HD offers a wide range of configurations with multiple cab and cargo bed options, as well as a variety of powertrains, which results in significant price differences across its seven trim levels.
The base model, the Pro, comes with a Regular Cab and Long Bed, the base gas V8 engine, and 2WD, priced at $45,400 MSRP.
Opting for the SLE trim with the same configuration increases the price to $50,200. For those who prefer a double cab or crew cab, the starting MSRP rises to $47,300 and $49,100 for the Pro, and $52,300 and $54,100 for the SLE.
The SLT trim starts at $61,500. Choosing the long bed configuration adds more cost, and adding 4WD to any of these trims increases the price by $2,800. The diesel engine option is priced at $9,490.
From the AT4 trim upwards, 4WD comes standard. The AT4 starts at $70,100 with the base engine, while the Denali begins at $74,200 and the AT4X starts at $82,800. The diesel engine is again priced at $9,490 across all trims.
The highest-tier model, the Denali Ultimate, comes with the Duramax diesel engine as standard and has a starting price of $92,900. These prices exclude the $1,995 destination charge.
Choosing the right truck model can be difficult due to the varying features and needs of different buyers. For those prioritizing maximum payload and towing capacity, the entry-level Pro trim with the most powerful diesel engine is a solid option.
However, if premium features are important, the Denali trim would be a better choice to get the best available options.
The SLT trim is recommended as a minimum, as it allows for larger cab configurations, offering a good balance between work truck functionality and family-friendly features.
Cars That Are Hard to Maintain
There’s no such thing as a truly affordable premium vehicle. While you can find used BMWs, Range Rovers, and Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs for a fraction of their original price, you’ll often end up spending thousands on maintenance and repairs.
Buying one of these vehicles can present a real dilemma. The cars listed here are among the best in their respective categories, but they’re also known for draining your wallet.
Even if you aren’t making car payments, you could still find yourself paying hundreds of dollars per month for upkeep. In fact, the older the car and the cheaper it is to buy, the more you’re likely to spend on maintenance.
To compile this list, we used data which tracks the most expensive cars to maintain based on their 10-year maintenance costs.
The list includes estimated annual costs, as well as the likelihood of needing major repairs. As expected, it features premium luxury brands like BMW and Porsche, but it also includes models from Ram.
Porsche Panamera
The Porsche Panamera comes in at number 20, with a 10-year maintenance cost of $16,531. Available in sedan, Turismo sport wagon, and hybrid variants, the Panamera combines sports car-like performance with luxury and comfort for up to four passengers.
Its annual costs start at $666 in the first year, rising to $2,963 by the 10th year, and it has a 45% chance of needing a major repair.
The Panamera and Panamera 4 are both powered by a turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 engine that produces 348 horsepower.
Both models are equipped with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but only the Panamera 4 features all-wheel drive, while the base Panamera is rear-wheel drive. The plug-in E-Hybrid versions also feature the same turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 engine, but with the addition of electric motors that increase the total horsepower.
In the 4 E-Hybrid, the combined output is 463 horsepower, whereas the 4S E-Hybrid generates 536 horsepower. The performance-focused GTS trim is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that delivers 493 horsepower.
All Panamera GTS models are equipped with a unique suspension system, featuring stiffer anti-roll bars and a ride height that is lowered by 0.4 inches compared to the other trims. Our test drive of the GTS showcased impressive performance, but the ride quality was on the harsher side.
During our evaluation of the hybrid models, we didn’t observe a major difference in the updated powertrains compared to previous models. All variants of the Panamera come with an adaptive air-spring suspension system.
For additional handling improvements, a rear-wheel steering option is available, and the E-Hybrid models offer an active suspension system that utilizes the car’s 400-volt electrical architecture to control a hydraulic pump at each damper, which minimizes body movement.
The Panamera’s ride is noticeably firmer than other large luxury sedans, but as a sportier option in its class, we find that to be an appreciated trait. To enhance the driving experience further, the Sport and Sport Plus driving modes adjust the adaptive suspension to even firmer settings.
However, one aspect that detracts from the Panamera’s luxury feel is the noticeable road noise. During our initial test drive, we found that tire roar over the pavement filtered into the cabin more than in rival sedans.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class follows at number 19, with a 10-year maintenance cost of $16,561. This iconic SUV, known for its boxy design and rugged appeal, has a loyal following among luxury car enthusiasts.
Even the base model requires significant funds to maintain, although the AMG version is the fastest option. The G-Class’s annual maintenance costs start at $721 in the first year, climbing to $2,898 by year 10, with a 42.7% chance of requiring a major repair.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a luxury SUV known for its iconic boxy shape, rugged off-road capabilities, and high-end performance. Originally developed as a military vehicle in the 1970s, it has evolved into one of the most prestigious and recognizable vehicles in the luxury SUV segment.
The G-Class is renowned for its combination of luxury, performance, and off-road prowess, making it a top choice for those seeking a stylish yet capable vehicle.
Under the hood, the G-Class offers a range of powerful engines. The base model features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces around 416 horsepower, with the AMG G63 variant packing an even more potent 577 horsepower.
Both engines deliver exceptional performance, with the AMG G63 capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just a few seconds.
These engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and come with full-time all-wheel drive, ensuring optimal traction and power distribution in a variety of driving conditions.
In addition to its performance, the G-Class offers an upscale interior, with premium materials like leather upholstery, wood trims, and the latest infotainment technology.
It is equipped with Mercedes’ MBUX system, which includes voice control, a large touchscreen display, and smartphone connectivity options. The ride is typically firm, reflecting its off-road focus, but it still offers a high level of comfort and refinement compared to traditional off-road vehicles.
Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 ranks 14th with a 10-year maintenance cost of $17,677. This full-size pickup truck stands out for its stylish design, offering an array of features and luxury options, especially on the high-end models.
The Ram 1500 provides a choice between V6 and V8 engines, including the powerful 702-horsepower supercharged V8 in the TRX trim, designed for dune racing. Its annual maintenance costs start at $567 in the first year and increase to $3,362 by the 10th year. The Ram 1500 has a 54.8% chance of requiring a major repair.
The 2025 Ram 1500 offers a smooth and comfortable ride, which is impressive for a full-size truck. The cabin remains quiet, even on busy city streets and highways.
It is equipped with precise steering, responsive braking, and stable handling, contributing to an overall relaxing driving experience.
There are three engine options available for the 2025 Ram 1500. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. For 2025, Ram has replaced the previous Hemi V8 with two 3.0-liter straight-six turbo engines.
The first option generates 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque, while the high-output version boosts performance to 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet of torque.
While the V6 engine provides adequate power, the two new straight-six turbo options deliver smooth and strong power with minimal turbo lag.
All models come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission that ensures smooth shifting. The Ram 1500 offers impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum tow rating of 11,560 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 2,300 pounds.
In terms of fuel economy, the 2025 Ram 1500 stands out for a full-size pickup truck. The base V6 engine achieves up to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for rear-wheel-drive models, while four-wheel-drive models get up to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
The 420-horsepower straight-six engine returns 18 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive, or 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with four-wheel drive. The high-output straight-six engine offers fuel economy ratings of 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
BMW X3
The BMW X3, which comes in at 13th place, has a 10-year maintenance cost of $17,771. This compact luxury SUV offers nearly the same driving excitement as the 3 Series sedan but with more space and practicality, making it a highly rated choice among more conservative luxury crossovers.
The X3’s annual maintenance costs begin at $574 in its first year and rise to $3,361 by the 10th year, with a 54.6% chance of needing a major repair.
The BMW X3 offers four engine options, each paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
The base 20 xDrive model, which features a four-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol engine, generates 205bhp, providing adequate performance for most drivers. In our tests, it achieved a 0-60mph time of 7.3 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds slower than the Lexus NX 350h tested on the same day.
While it requires higher revs to accelerate quickly, the X3’s automatic gearbox is responsive, downshifting promptly when additional acceleration is needed while driving.
For those seeking more effortless driving, the 2.0-litre diesel engine in the 20d variant, which produces 194bhp, offers significant low-end torque, likely making it a more relaxed and easy-driving option.
For those prioritizing performance, the M50 xDrive stands out with its 393bhp six-cylinder engine, which propels the vehicle to 62mph in just 4.6 seconds. The M50 delivers exceptional performance at any point in the rev range, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience.
Additionally, there is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, the xDrive30e, offering an official all-electric range of up to 55 miles. This surpasses the Lexus NX450h+’s official range of 45 miles but still falls short of the Mercedes GLC PHEV, which offers a more impressive 76-mile range.
Porsche Macan
The Porsche Macan ranks 3rd with a 10-year maintenance cost of $20,137. This compact luxury SUV is known for its impressive performance, much like its larger sibling, the Porsche Cayenne.
However, just like the Cayenne, the Macan is costly to maintain and repair, with maintenance costs that exceed those of Porsche’s actual sports cars. Its annual maintenance costs start at $679 in the first year and rise to $3,786 by the 10th year. The Macan has a 60.9% chance of needing a major repair.
The Porsche Macan quickly established itself as the benchmark for performance in the compact luxury SUV segment when it first debuted a decade ago.
While the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and their respective sportier variants were introduced earlier, the Macan’s exceptional balance of performance and driver engagement set a new standard in the segment.
Even as it ages gracefully, the Macan continues to deliver outstanding performance but now faces competition from its own brand in the form of the Macan EV.
Although the Macan EV is built on a new platform, the gasoline-powered Macan retains its original platform, continuing to offer exceptional handling and that signature Porsche feel.
The Macan comes with two engine options: a 261-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine in the base model and a 375-hp twin-turbo 2.9-liter V-6 in the Macan S. (The more powerful 434-hp Macan GTS is reviewed separately.)
The chassis excels in delivering confidence-inspiring handling, braking, and precise steering, all hallmarks of the Porsche brand.
While it does fall behind its competitors in terms of rear-passenger and cargo space, and its infotainment system may feel outdated, the Macan more than compensates for these shortcomings with its unmatched driving dynamics, making it a joy to take on winding roads or maneuver through urban streets.