The market for small and compact crossovers continues to grow year after year. Consumers are increasingly attracted to these vehicles because of their generous cargo capacity, solid performance, fuel-efficient automatic transmissions, and overall value for money.
Automakers frequently highlight that crossovers share many of the benefits of traditional passenger cars, particularly when it comes to reliability.
But which models truly stand out if your top priority is low maintenance? We’ve examined the current crossover segment to determine which ones have earned a reputation for dependability.
In a market flooded with flashy features and short-lived trends, long-term reliability is what truly separates great crossovers from forgettable ones. For drivers who value durability over gimmicks, some crossovers stand the test of time—racking up miles without racking up repair bills.
Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter or a family hauler that won’t let you down after a few years, these five crossovers have proven they can go the distance. If you’re in it for the long haul, these are the models worth betting on.
5. Lexus UX
The Lexus UX represents the most affordable entry point into the Lexus lineup. While calling it that might sound dismissive, this compact Lexus crossover holds its own in several important areas.
Its hybrid drivetrain helps keep fuel expenses low, and the refined handling makes it particularly well-suited for navigating through heavy city traffic. Additionally, the interior quality of the UX surpasses that of direct competitors like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.
What truly sets the UX apart, however, is its exceptional reliability. According to data from What Car?, only 6% of Lexus vehicles encounter issues, but even among a strong-performing brand, the UX manages to shine.
With an impressive reliability rating of 99.8%, it earned the title of the most reliable hybrid vehicle in their study.
Though most UX models experience no major problems, the most commonly reported issue across all Lexus vehicles involves the 12-volt battery.
Malfunctions here can affect both the hybrid system and all-electric functions. Additionally, Lexus has yet to fully resolve glitches in the infotainment system—users continue to report random freezing or otherwise odd behavior, even in the newest versions.
4. Buick Encore
Compact crossovers are rapidly taking the place of uninspiring and outdated hatchbacks. Vehicles like the Buick Encore bring with them a higher seating position, greater ground clearance, a spacious interior, and a more robust, SUV-like design.
But what makes the Encore stand out, and Buick in general, is the consistent emphasis on long-term durability.
For multiple years, Buick has held the top spot in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, underscoring the brand’s commitment to improving both quality and reliability. The Encore has consistently earned high marks in the small crossover class.
That being said, the Encore isn’t entirely free of problems. Some drivers report that a weak throttle body or malfunctioning sensor can lead to subpar engine performance.
There’s also a recurring complaint regarding the check engine light turning on without an obvious cause. If this occurs, it’s best to use a diagnostic scanner to pinpoint the underlying issue.
The Buick Encore GX, the brand’s smallest crossover, attempts to compete in the subcompact SUV market alongside more upscale rivals like Audi, BMW, and Volvo
With a price significantly lower than those luxury brands, and an interior that features high-quality materials and a wealth of amenities, especially in the top-tier Avenir trim, the GX stands out in terms of value.
However, it doesn’t quite match the appeal of its luxury counterparts. Despite this, the Buick Encore GX is a charming and relevant sport-utility vehicle in its own right.
Its strengths include an intuitive infotainment system, impressive fuel economy, and ample cargo space. Buick has built a reputation for creating quiet, comfortable cabin environments with a focus on serenity, though engaging handling takes a backseat here.
While the GX may not have the high-end feel of luxury subcompact SUVs, its refined interior is undeniably more appealing than many offerings from mainstream competitors.
3. Honda HR-V
Although the Honda HR-V might not top the list when it comes to excitement, it stands out as one of the smartest and most practical crossovers you can buy.
Just like other models in the Honda lineup, the HR-V features the brand’s innovative Magic Seat system. This allows the bottom portion of the rear seats to fold up, making it possible to carry tall or awkwardly shaped items—something rarely seen in this class of vehicle.
The standout trait of the HR-V, however, is its reliability. RepairPal awarded it a top-tier reliability score of 5.0 out of 5.0. On top of that, RepairPal estimates that the annual maintenance cost for the HR-V averages just $301, making it a budget-friendly option for upkeep.
Still, a few issues have surfaced over time. Some HR-V owners report that the vehicle’s paint is relatively thin, which can eventually lead to corrosion.
Additionally, there have been concerns about transmission problems. If your HR-V hesitates when shifting gears or emits a grinding noise, it’s important to have the transmission inspected as soon as possible.
The 2023 Honda HR-V marks the third generation of this SUV, which originally debuted in 1998 as a stylish three-door soft-roader aimed at the surfing community. After a seven-year hiatus, the HR-V returned as a more conventional crossover.
For this latest iteration, Honda has embraced a ‘bold’ design with the goal of creating clean, simple lines that mimic the silhouette of a coupe, a trend currently popular among small SUVs. However, the result feels somewhat underwhelming, and Honda has since implemented a modest facelift to refresh its appearance.
Has Honda made significant changes? Not really. If you’re up for a game of “spot the difference,” you’ll notice some minor updates.
These include subtle styling adjustments to the front and rear lights, ergonomic changes to the dashboard for easier access to the wireless phone charger (as claimed by Honda), enhanced soundproofing, and updates to the available specifications (details can be found under the Buying tab). Beyond that, there aren’t any major changes.
What about the engine options? “Choose” might be a bit of an exaggeration, as the HR-V is now only available in a hybrid version, reflecting the growing emphasis on reducing emissions (both a fashion trend and a legal requirement).
In China, an electric version is available, offering nearly 300 miles on a single charge. However, for the rest of us, we’ll have to settle for the hybrid as a middle ground.
2. Mazda CX-5
Mazda likes to emphasize its philosophy of creating a strong connection between driver and machine. While the CX-5 doesn’t have the featherweight agility of the MX-5 Miata, it still handles with surprising athleticism—like a pro athlete giving a piggyback ride to a couple of toddlers.
On top of its fun-to-drive character, the CX-5 is one of the most dependable compact SUVs out there. According to Consumer Reports’ reliability survey, the Mazda CX-5 placed second among all compact sport utility vehicles. It also received the highest possible predicted reliability score, with a five-star rating.
That said, the most frequently reported issue with the CX-5 involves its daytime running LED lights and turn signal indicators, which tend to flicker and fail prematurely.
Mazda has acknowledged the root cause: the gaskets that seal the light’s wiring connectors emit sulfur, which corrodes the electrical circuits over time.
1. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 has become a global bestseller for a reason. Passengers appreciate the generous rear-seat space and user-friendly infotainment system, while drivers value its performance and consistent reliability.
Even with such outstanding marks, the RAV4 isn’t entirely flawless. One of the most commonly reported issues concerns the vehicle’s evaporative emissions system—specifically the vapor canisters, which may eventually require replacement.
Another issue involves malfunctioning fuel gauges, which can mislead drivers into underestimating how much fuel remains. Despite these relatively minor complaints, the RAV4 continues to be one of the most trusted crossovers money can buy.
Compact SUVs That Are Sure To Disappoint
Compact SUVs are among the most popular vehicles on the road today, promising a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance in a sleek, family-friendly package. But not every model lives up to the hype.
Beneath the glossy marketing and bold claims, some of these crossovers struggle with reliability issues, outdated tech, and questionable build quality. If you’re shopping smart and aiming for long-term value, these are the compact SUVs you’ll want to think twice about before signing the papers.
Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Predicted Reliability Score: 1/5
Despite its modern all-electric powertrain, Chevrolet’s compact Bolt EUV crossover receives a disappointing predicted reliability rating of just 1 out of 5.
Previous model years have been plagued by a variety of problems, including malfunctioning electronic systems, defects within the electric motor, and instances of water intrusion. The overall construction quality of this relatively new model raises concerns for long-term dependability.
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV stands out for offering a fun driving experience, solid all-electric range, and a surprisingly spacious interior—all at a price that’s well below the average in its class. With a respectable 247-mile driving range, this all-electric compact crossover is both capable and economical.
It’s fun to drive, thanks to light, responsive steering and nimble handling, which also makes parking and city driving easier. Inside, the cabin is spacious and well-equipped, giving drivers and passengers access to a range of features typically found in more expensive vehicles.
However, the Bolt EUV lacks an all-wheel-drive option, which may be a drawback for some buyers, particularly in colder climates. For 2023, Chevrolet lowered the starting price, reorganized trim levels, and introduced a new Redline Edition package to freshen up the model.
The Bolt EUV seats up to five passengers, operates on a front-wheel-drive layout, and produces 200 horsepower. EPA estimates place its efficiency at 125 MPGe in the city and 104 MPGe on the highway.
Local dealership inventory in Seattle, WA, shows competitive pricing, with listings like a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV LT available for $19,998 in Renton and another for $20,995 in Seattle. These listings reflect the model’s value-oriented pricing and wide availability.
The 2023 Bolt EUV earned the Best Electric SUV for the Money award, a testament to its strong balance of cost, features, and performance.
Competing models in the electric SUV space include the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5, priced between $42,600 and $58,200; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting at $33,600; and the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E, which ranges from $36,495 to $52,495.
The expert rating for the Bolt EUV combines professional reviews with hard data on reliability, safety, performance, and practicality.
From a performance standpoint, the Bolt EUV disproves the notion that electric vehicles can’t be fun to drive. Its steering is light and responsive, and the vehicle feels agile on the road. Though its suspension leans toward the firm side, it still manages to offer a comfortable ride over imperfect pavement.
Power comes from a 65-kWh lithium-ion battery pack paired with a single electric motor, delivering a total of 200 horsepower. This setup allows the Bolt EUV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds, making it quick and confident on highways.
Chevrolet has also equipped the Bolt EUV with a regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and sends it back to the battery.
The system slows the car when the driver lifts off the accelerator, and a steering-wheel paddle labeled “Regen on Demand” offers manual control over this feature.
Additionally, a Low mode enables one-pedal driving, allowing the car to speed up and come to a complete stop using just the accelerator. Traditional Drive mode still provides the standard two-pedal experience, giving drivers flexibility in how they operate the vehicle.
Jeep Compass
Predicted Reliability Score: 2/5
The Jeep Compass compact SUV doesn’t fare much better, with a lackluster predicted reliability score of 2 out of 5.
Persistent problems include outdated transmission components and recurring steering issues. With Jeep shifting much of its engineering focus toward newer models, these reliability concerns are unlikely to be resolved anytime soon.
The 2025 Jeep Compass doesn’t deliver much excitement during everyday driving, but it does show its strength when taken off the beaten path. It handles off-road conditions well, making it a solid choice for those who value trail capability.
However, the steering feels somewhat numb, and the ride leans toward the stiff side. When cornering, there’s a noticeable amount of body roll, which may reduce driver confidence during more spirited drives.
Under the hood, the Compass is equipped with a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides ample performance for most drivers. One of its standout features is standard four-wheel drive, which is uncommon in this segment and adds to its off-road credentials.
Unfortunately, the eight-speed automatic transmission detracts from the driving experience. It tends to upshift too early and resists downshifting when needed, which can be frustrating in situations that demand responsive performance.
Fuel economy for the 2025 Compass is slightly below average for a compact SUV. It achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which may not appeal to buyers focused on efficiency.
If you’re considering leasing the Compass, the U.S. News Best Price Program offers significant savings, averaging $3,009 off MSRP. This could translate into $83 less per month on a typical 36-month lease, making the Compass a more budget-friendly option for those financing or leasing.
Inside, the 2025 Compass features a straightforward and clean interior layout, but overall material quality varies by trim. Base trims include harder plastics that diminish the cabin’s feel, while higher trims offer more refined materials that enhance the experience.
The Compass can seat five, though the rear seat becomes uncomfortably cramped with three adults. While the seats offer good overall comfort, they lack the bolstering needed to make longer trips truly relaxing.
Cargo space measures 27.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and folding the seats down increases capacity to 59.8 cubic feet. This is adequate for the class, but some larger compact SUVs do provide more generous storage options.
Value is one of the Compass’s strongest attributes. With a value rating of 9.6 out of 10, it stands out in the compact SUV segment. This rating is based on the vehicle’s overall cost of ownership and the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) across its trims.
On the safety front, the 2025 Compass has received varied but generally good scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The vehicle includes several key safety features as standard, such as blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist.
For child safety seat installations, the Compass includes two full sets of LATCH connectors on the outboard rear seats, along with a tether anchor for the middle seat. The lower anchors can be borrowed from adjacent seats when needed.
However, the IIHS rated the Compass’ LATCH system as “Marginal”—the second-lowest possible rating—because the anchors are positioned too deep in the seat cushions, making them hard to access.
In terms of reliability, the 2025 Compass earns a predicted score of 81 out of 100 from J.D. Power. According to their scale, a score between 81 and 90 is considered “Great,” placing the Compass above average in this area.
That said, critics have not been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. The Compass holds a critics’ rating of 6.0 out of 10, which is considered below average for its class. This score reflects the consensus tone and overall recommendation level found in professional automotive reviews.
Dodge Durango
Predicted Reliability Score: 2/5
The Dodge Durango, a three-row SUV, continues to post weak reliability scores. A history of mechanical problems across multiple model years has led to its low 2 out of 5 predicted reliability rating.
The pattern of unresolved issues suggests that the Durango remains a questionable choice for those seeking a dependable SUV.
Although the 2024 model year was expected to mark the end of the Hellcat Durango, Dodge has defied expectations by unveiling the 2025 version. A new special-edition package makes its debut, but otherwise, it remains the same bold and overpowered three-row SUV that fans have come to appreciate.
The Durango may be showing its age, and the SRT’s cabin doesn’t quite match the refinement expected from a six-figure vehicle, yet its continued production is a testament to sustained demand.
Dodge clearly wouldn’t keep building the Hellcat Durango if buyers weren’t lining up for it. For those concerned that this SUV prioritizes performance over practicality, the SRT Hellcat is still capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds—matching the capacity of other V-8-powered Durangos.
Its closest competitor is the Cadillac Escalade-V, but with a price tag roughly two-thirds that of the Caddy, the Dodge comes across as something of a performance bargain. If you’re after that kind of raw American muscle in a different body style, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing delivers similar thrills for a similar price.
Beyond that, to get this level of output in an SUV, you’re entering the stratosphere of luxury automakers like Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Porsche—and the costs rise accordingly.
In terms of rankings, the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat lands at #15 on the list of Best Mid-Size 3-Row SUVs. For comparison, the top five include the Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, Mazda CX-90, Hyundai Palisade, and Honda Pilot, all of which come with significantly lower starting prices.
The Hellcat variant of the Durango, on the other hand, begins at $86,590 and climbs as high as $102,885 depending on the trim and options selected.
For 2025, Dodge is marking what’s believed to be the final run of the Durango SRT Hellcat with three unique special editions: Silver Bullet, Brass Monkey, and Hammerhead.
Each edition brings its own set of visual tweaks, but beneath the surface, all are mechanically identical and come fully equipped.
Dodge has yet to disclose how many units of each will be produced, allowing some flexibility in case the company once again decides to prolong the life of this performance SUV.
The base SRT Hellcat starts at $86,590, while the Silver Bullet, Hammerhead, and Brass Monkey editions each carry a price tag of $102,885. Though far from inexpensive, the Durango SRT Hellcat’s limited production and audacious character ensure that each model finds a willing buyer.
This year’s options are limited to the three special editions mentioned above, all powered by the same 710-horsepower engine and differentiated primarily by their exterior styling.
For buyers seeking better overall value or a more subdued driving experience, Dodge continues to offer several non-Hellcat Durango models, which are covered in a separate review.
Buick Enclave
Predicted Reliability Score: 2/5
The Buick Enclave, a large crossover SUV now showing its age, also earns a 2 out of 5 predicted reliability score.
This vehicle is known for ongoing issues related to the powertrain and electrical systems—problems that have persisted throughout several generations spanning more than ten years. Buyers who place a high priority on vehicle longevity may want to steer clear.
With the release of the redesigned 2025 Buick Enclave, Buick demonstrates it’s not ready to disappear into the background like other once-iconic midcentury brands. The new Enclave arrives with a bold, muscular exterior design that includes a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and trim options that range from chrome to gloss-black accents.
Performance and tech enhancements further elevate the offering. It’s another clear step in Buick’s ongoing rebranding effort to attract a younger, more style-conscious audience. Based on looks alone, the Enclave appears to be heading in the right direction.
However, it faces stiff competition in the three-row “luxury-adjacent” SUV segment, with strong offerings from brands like Acura, Hyundai, and Kia. Still, the Enclave’s combination of comfort, features, and value makes it a serious contender.
The 2025 Enclave ditches its old V6 in favor of a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This marks a noticeable increase in power and delivers about 20% more torque than the outgoing engine.
Not only should this improve the previous Enclave’s 0-60 mph time of around 7 seconds, but more importantly, it enhances low- to mid-range performance in city driving and improves passing capability on the highway.
In addition to the power boost, Buick has loaded up the Enclave with technology, including a striking 30-inch widescreen display that spans two-thirds of the dashboard. This unit combines the digital gauge cluster with the infotainment touchscreen into a single, sweeping piece of tech.
Although the curved screen design slightly limits the available space for Apple CarPlay, the Google-based native software platform supports a wide range of Apple and Android apps in full-screen mode.
Among its corporate relatives, the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia offer alternative takes on the three-row SUV formula. The Traverse may not match the Enclave in interior refinement, but it comes at a lower cost, while the GMC Acadia brings a tougher, more rugged profile and some off-road ability.
For buyers considering luxury options, the Enclave can be seen as a more budget-friendly alternative to the Lincoln Aviator and Lexus TX.
However, in terms of pricing and features, it goes up directly against strong contenders like the Acura MDX, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride—tough competition for any SUV in this category.
Unless you’re set on getting massaging front seats or the premium Bose sound system, there’s little need to step beyond the Preferred trim.
It offers the same engine, driving dynamics, and core features as the higher trims, including a full suite of driver assistance technology. Buyers also have the option to add Super Cruise and all-wheel drive.
Additionally, the Preferred benefits from a more comfortable ride thanks to its standard suspension setup and smaller wheels. While the Sport Touring variant has a unique, athletic appearance that may catch some eyes, the Preferred trim stands out as the best value in the entire Enclave lineup.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Predicted Reliability Score: 1/5
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio, a luxury compact SUV designed with driving enthusiasts in mind, comes with significant concerns surrounding its predicted reliability.
While its sporty performance is attractive, it suffers from fragile electronics and overly complex computer systems. These factors contribute to its rock-bottom 1 out of 5 reliability rating from Consumer Reports, casting doubt on its long-term dependability.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio distinguishes itself from many SUVs by fully embracing the “S” for sport in its name. The Stelvio’s design team, particularly with the high-performance Stelvio Quadrifoglio (QV), has leaned into this idea, equipping it with a Ferrari-sourced V6 engine and performance-tuned suspension and brakes.
However, in this review, we focus on the more affordable and practical petrol and diesel versions of the Stelvio, ensuring we also highlight the “U” for utility.
Since its debut, Alfa Romeo has worked hard to maintain the Stelvio’s sharp look, with updates including refined styling, an upgraded interior, and revised engine options. The 280 Veloce, for example, comes with a 276bhp petrol engine made in the same factory as the Stelvio QV’s V6.
The question is whether the Stelvio’s striking design and a touch of Ferrari performance are enough to keep it competitive against rivals like the BMW X3, Mercedes GLC, Porsche Macan, and Volvo XC60. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers attractive looks, engaging handling, and a decent range of features.
However, for the price, rivals may offer a more polished interior, a comfier ride, and more room inside. If you decide to purchase a Stelvio, we recommend the diesel engine and the entry-level Sprint trim for the best balance of features and affordability.
The Stelvio is fun to drive, with sharp steering, excellent body control, and a responsive automatic gearbox. On the downside, rear passenger space is tighter than in its competitors, and the ride can feel firm at low speeds. Additionally, the diesel engine can be noisy at times.
In terms of performance, the Stelvio offers a 2.2-litre diesel engine (badged 2.2 Turbo Diesel 210) producing 207bhp, which delivers responsive power from low revs and pulls smoothly throughout the rev range.
This makes it ideal for reaching motorway speeds quickly. There’s also a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (badged 2.0 Turbo Petrol 280), which produces 276bhp and can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds.
However, the petrol engine requires more effort to reveal its true potential, meaning it doesn’t always feel as fast as the numbers suggest. For those looking for more power, the Stelvio offers a 2.9-litre V6 engine, exclusive to the Stelvio Quadrifoglio (QV), producing a thrilling 503bhp.