When purchasing a vehicle, reliability stands as one of the most critical factors influencing buyer decisions. A dependable car means fewer trips to the repair shop, lower maintenance costs, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle will start every morning and get you where you need to go.
In today’s automotive world, where vehicles are becoming increasingly complex with advanced technologies and electrified powertrains, understanding which brands consistently deliver reliable products has never been more important.
Consumer Reports’ latest reliability rankings draw from survey data covering approximately 380,000 vehicles across model years 2000 through 2025, with some early 2026 models included.
This comprehensive dataset examines 17 to 20 potential problem areas depending on the vehicle type, including critical components such as engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes, climate control, and infotainment systems.
The methodology weighs the severity of reported problems and their real-world impact on owners, resulting in predicted reliability scores on a scale of 1 to 100.
The 2025 rankings reveal fascinating trends in automotive reliability. Asian manufacturers continue to dominate the field, accounting for seven of the ten most reliable brands, with Japanese automakers particularly excelling.
Interestingly, hybrid vehicles without plug-in capability continue to demonstrate superior reliability compared to traditional gasoline engines, while fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids experience more growing pains.
The data also shows that newly redesigned models typically face reliability challenges in their first years of production, suggesting that buyers seeking maximum dependability should consider established model generations. As we examine each brand’s performance, we’ll explore what makes these manufacturers stand out and which specific models lead their respective lineups in reliability.
1. Toyota (Score: 66)
Toyota reclaimed the top position in Consumer Reports’ reliability rankings for 2025, demonstrating why the brand has maintained its reputation for dependability over decades.
The Japanese automaker’s return to first place, after finishing second in the previous year, reinforces its consistent excellence in producing vehicles that age gracefully and require minimal major repairs.
Toyota’s success stems from its legendary Toyota Production System, which emphasizes continuous improvement and built-in quality at every stage of manufacturing.
The brand’s reliability gains in 2025 were driven by significant improvements across several key models. The Camry sedan’s reliability rating rose dramatically from 56 to 74 after initial teething problems with its redesign, now tying with the Honda Accord for second-best in its category.
The midsize sedan now comes exclusively as a hybrid, delivering an impressive 48 mpg combined while offering enhanced performance and available all-wheel drive.
The Tacoma pickup truck, redesigned for 2024, quickly rebounded from below-average reliability to above-average scores, showcasing Toyota’s ability to rapidly address and resolve manufacturing issues.
The Tundra full-size pickup also demonstrated notable improvement, moving from below-average to average predicted reliability for the 2026 model year.
This turnaround is particularly impressive given that the Tundra received an all-new platform and engines for the 2022 model year. Six Toyota models appear among the ten most reliable individual vehicles in the survey, including the 4Runner, Crown, Corolla, and Prius.
The 4Runner SUV scored well above average, continuing its reputation as one of the most dependable body-on-frame SUVs available.
Toyota’s hybrid technology continues to shine in reliability testing. Models like the RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, and Camry Hybrid consistently score at or above average, demonstrating that the brand’s electrification strategy enhances rather than compromises reliability.
The company’s approach of using proven hybrid technology rather than rushing into all-new electrified architectures has clearly paid dividends. With virtually every model in Toyota’s lineup achieving average or better reliability ratings, the brand offers buyers exceptional peace of mind across sedans, SUVs, and trucks.
2. Subaru (Score: 63)
Subaru finished second in the 2025 reliability rankings after holding the top position the previous year, maintaining its status as one of the automotive industry’s most dependable brands.
The Japanese automaker has built a fiercely loyal customer base by delivering vehicles that combine practical all-wheel drive capability with strong reliability and safety records.
Subaru’s consistency in the top tier of reliability rankings reflects the brand’s conservative engineering approach and commitment to refining proven designs rather than chasing radical reinvention.
The 2025 Subaru Forester compact SUV exemplifies the brand’s reliability-focused philosophy. Redesigned for the 2025 model year, the Forester received refinements throughout its cabin while maintaining the winning formula that made previous generations reliable and practical.
The SUV offers exceptional visibility, standard all-wheel drive, generous cargo space, and impressive fuel economy of 29 mpg combined. Unlike many modern redesigns that introduce new problems, Subaru managed to enhance the Forester’s comfort and quietness while preserving its dependability, earning it a spot on Consumer Reports’ Top Picks list.
The Subaru Crosstrek continues to be another reliability standout in the brand’s lineup. This subcompact crossover appeals to buyers seeking adventure-ready capability without sacrificing urban practicality.
With its high ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, excellent ride quality, and good fuel economy, the Crosstrek handles both city commutes and weekend explorations with equal competence.
The vehicle’s straightforward design and proven powertrain contribute to its strong reliability ratings, making it an intelligent choice for buyers who value dependability alongside versatility.
Subaru’s commitment to standard all-wheel drive across its lineup provides not only enhanced traction but also consistency in engineering and manufacturing. This focused approach means the company perfects a narrower range of drivetrain configurations, potentially contributing to higher quality and fewer problems.
The brand’s boxer engines, while requiring more complex packaging, have proven reliable over time. As Subaru gradually introduces hybrid technology into its lineup, including upcoming hybrid versions of the Forester, the brand maintains its cautious approach to new technologies, ensuring that reliability remains paramount even as it evolves toward electrification.
3. Lexus (Score: 60)
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, secured third place in the 2025 reliability rankings, continuing its tradition of delivering premium vehicles that match or exceed mainstream brands in dependability.
This achievement is particularly notable in the luxury segment, where complex features and advanced technologies often compromise reliability. Lexus accomplishes this by leveraging Toyota’s engineering excellence while adding refined materials, enhanced comfort, and sophisticated design.
The brand’s vehicles often share fundamental components with Toyota models, providing owners access to Toyota’s extensive parts network and potentially reducing maintenance costs compared to European luxury competitors.
The Lexus IS sedan stands out as one of the brand’s most reliable models, scoring well above average in Consumer Reports’ survey. This compact luxury sedan combines engaging driving dynamics with the dependability Lexus customers expect.
Its naturally aspirated V6 engine and well-proven platform contribute to its reliability, avoiding the complexity that can plague newer turbocharged powertrains. The IS offers luxury buyers a sporty alternative that doesn’t require them to sacrifice long-term dependability for driving excitement.
Lexus hybrid models particularly shine in reliability assessments. The NX Hybrid compact SUV ranks at the top of its segment for reliability, combining luxury appointments with Toyota’s mature hybrid technology.
Similarly, the RX Hybrid, Lexus’s best-selling model, continues to deliver exceptional dependability while offering smooth, efficient power delivery and lower operating costs than traditional luxury SUVs.
These hybrids demonstrate that electrification, when executed with proven technology and conservative engineering, can enhance rather than compromise reliability.
The brand’s approach to technology integration deserves recognition. While Lexus vehicles feature abundant luxury amenities, infotainment systems, and driver assistance technologies, the company typically waits until these systems are thoroughly tested and refined before widespread deployment.
This conservative strategy means Lexus may not always offer the flashiest or newest features, but the technologies included work consistently and reliably.
For luxury buyers prioritizing dependability and lower long-term ownership costs, Lexus represents an intelligent alternative to German luxury brands that often rank lower in reliability assessments.
4. Honda (Score: 59)
Honda secured fourth place in the 2025 reliability rankings, maintaining its position as one of the most dependable mainstream automotive brands.
The Japanese automaker has cultivated a reputation for engineering vehicles that deliver reliable performance, efficient powertrains, and engaging driving dynamics.
Honda’s reliability success stems from its focused engineering philosophy, where the company develops and refines core technologies across multiple vehicle lines, ensuring thorough testing and continuous improvement of key components.
The Honda Accord continues to exemplify the brand’s reliability strengths. The Accord Hybrid specifically earns above-average reliability ratings while delivering exceptional fuel economy and a refined driving experience.
Years of perfecting this fuel-efficient sedan show in its solid craftsmanship, pleasing ride quality, and roomy interior. The Accord’s combination of reliability, space, comfort, and efficiency makes it a standout choice in the competitive midsize sedan segment, appealing to buyers who want a dependable daily driver that’s also enjoyable to operate.
The 2026 Honda Civic Hybrid represents another reliability highlight for the brand. This compact sedan blends performance, interior space, fuel efficiency, and safety features near the top of both the small car and hybrid car segments.
By combining the Civic’s confident-handling suspension design with proven hybrid technology, Honda delivers a vehicle that’s both fun to drive and dependable over the long term. The Civic’s straightforward design, well-sorted chassis, and refined powertrain contribute to its strong reliability ratings.
The Honda Passport SUV scored well above average in reliability, offering families a two-row midsize SUV with Honda’s characteristic dependability. The redesigned Passport brings improvements throughout, from suspension and steering refinements to enhanced safety systems, while maintaining Honda’s reliability standards.
The brand’s CR-V compact SUV, particularly in hybrid form, ranks at the top of its segment for reliability, demonstrating Honda’s success in electrifying its popular models without sacrificing dependability. For buyers seeking reliable transportation that delivers engaging driving dynamics and practical utility, Honda’s lineup offers compelling options across multiple segments.
Also Read: 6 Most Powerful AWD Car You Can Buy Under $50K in 2025
5. BMW (Score: 58)
BMW ranks fifth and holds the distinction of being the most reliable European brand in Consumer Reports’ 2025 rankings, a significant achievement for a luxury performance-oriented manufacturer.
This position represents a three-spot improvement from the previous year, suggesting that BMW’s quality initiatives are yielding positive results.
The German automaker’s reliability success challenges the conventional wisdom that European luxury brands inevitably sacrifice dependability for performance and technological sophistication.
The BMW 2 Series emerged as the highest-scoring European model in Consumer Reports’ survey, demonstrating that focused, purpose-built vehicles can achieve impressive reliability even from traditionally less-dependable manufacturers.
This compact sports coupe and convertible lineup benefits from mature powertrains and a less complex feature set compared to BMW’s larger, more technology-laden models.
The 2 Series offers enthusiasts an engaging driving experience with BMW’s signature precise handling and responsive engines while delivering better-than-expected long-term dependability.
BMW’s improved reliability likely stems from several factors. The company has made quality a strategic priority in recent years, implementing more rigorous testing procedures and quality control measures throughout its manufacturing process.
Additionally, BMW has refined many of its core technologies, including turbocharged engines and automatic transmissions, through years of real-world use, allowing the company to address common failure points and improve component durability.
The brand’s commitment to engine development excellence, particularly with its inline-six and turbocharged four-cylinder engines, provides a strong foundation for reliability.
However, potential BMW buyers should recognize that while the brand has improved significantly, it still faces typical luxury vehicle challenges. BMWs generally require premium fuel, more expensive parts, and higher labor costs for repairs compared to mainstream brands. Extended warranty coverage may be wise for buyers concerned about long-term costs.
That said, BMW’s reliability improvement represents good news for enthusiasts who want the driving dynamics and luxury of a German performance brand without accepting the reliability compromises often associated with European vehicles.
As BMW continues refining its lineup and addressing historical problem areas, the brand may narrow the reliability gap with Japanese competitors while maintaining its performance character.
6. Nissan (Score: 57)
Nissan climbed to sixth place from twelfth the previous year, representing one of the most significant improvements in the 2025 reliability rankings.
This dramatic rise suggests that Nissan’s quality initiatives and engineering improvements are producing tangible results, offering renewed hope for a brand that has struggled with consistency in recent years.
Nissan’s reliability gains come at a crucial time as the company works to rebuild its reputation and compete more effectively against Honda and Toyota.
The improvement in Nissan’s reliability scores likely reflects several positive developments. The brand’s current lineup includes many mature, well-proven models that have benefited from years of refinements and problem-solving.
Vehicles like the Rogue compact SUV and Altima midsize sedan have received updates that address previous issues while maintaining familiar, tested platforms.
Additionally, Nissan’s conservative approach to new technologies in recent years, while sometimes criticized for lack of innovation, has allowed the company to perfect existing designs rather than introducing new problems through radical redesigns.
The Nissan Sentra compact sedan exemplifies the brand’s value-oriented approach to reliability. Priced under $25,000, the Sentra offers more standard active safety features than many higher-priced competitors while delivering a comfortable ride, nimble handling, excellent fuel economy, and a relatively roomy cabin.
Its intuitive controls and simple infotainment system make it easy to use, avoiding the complexity that can plague more expensive vehicles. Nissan’s inclusion of three complimentary oil changes during the first two years of ownership further enhances the ownership experience, reducing initial maintenance costs.
Despite these improvements, potential Nissan buyers should exercise appropriate caution regarding specific models and technologies. The brand’s continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have historically been a reliability concern, though recent generations appear improved.
Electric vehicles like the Leaf offer good value but feature aging technology compared to newer EV competitors. As Nissan continues its corporate restructuring and focuses on quality improvements, the brand’s rising reliability scores suggest it’s moving in the right direction, potentially offering value-conscious buyers dependable alternatives to Honda and Toyota at lower price points.
7. Acura (Score: 54)
Acura, Honda’s luxury division, secured seventh place in the 2025 reliability rankings, demonstrating that it inherits much of its parent brand’s engineering excellence while adding premium features and refinement.
The luxury brand offers buyers an alternative to European competitors that emphasizes reliability and value alongside upscale materials and advanced technology.
Acura’s positioning between mainstream Honda and European luxury brands appeals to buyers seeking premium vehicles without the maintenance costs and reliability concerns often associated with German alternatives.
The Acura MDX three-row luxury SUV represents one of the brand’s reliability highlights. This spacious family hauler combines Honda’s proven engineering with luxurious interior appointments, advanced safety features, and refined driving dynamics.
The MDX offers families the space and versatility they need for daily life while providing the dependability essential for worry-free long-term ownership. Its well-sorted chassis delivers a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling competence, and its powertrain options balance performance with efficiency.
The RDX compact luxury SUV continues to be another strong performer in Acura’s lineup. This popular model competes in the highly contested compact luxury SUV segment, offering generous standard features, engaging driving dynamics, and the reliability advantage that comes from Honda’s engineering pedigree.
The RDX’s turbocharged engine provides spirited performance while maintaining reasonable fuel economy, and its intuitive cabin design makes it easy to live with daily. Acura’s inclusion of comprehensive standard safety features adds value and appeal for safety-conscious buyers.
Acura’s TLX sport sedan rounds out the brand’s core lineup, providing a performance-oriented alternative for luxury sedan buyers. The TLX offers available all-wheel drive, turbocharged power, and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system in performance variants, delivering engaging driving dynamics that rival German sport sedans.
What distinguishes the TLX is its combination of performance with Honda-derived reliability, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy spirited driving without accepting the maintenance burdens and repair costs associated with European competitors.
For buyers seeking luxury vehicles that deliver premium experiences without sacrificing long-term dependability, Acura represents a compelling middle ground between mainstream and European luxury brands.
8. Buick (Score: 51)
Buick ranks as the highest-rated domestic brand in eighth place, representing General Motors’ most reliable nameplate and offering American buyers a dependable alternative to import brands.
This achievement is noteworthy given the challenges facing many domestic manufacturers in reliability assessments. Buick’s success stems from its conservative engineering approach, mature product lineup, and focus on delivering comfortable, well-equipped vehicles rather than chasing cutting-edge technology or aggressive performance.
The brand’s reliability advantage partly reflects its product strategy. Buick’s current lineup consists of well-proven designs that have benefited from years of refinements and problem-solving.
The company avoided the reliability pitfalls that affected some GM siblings by not rushing into complete redesigns or adopting unproven technologies.
This patient approach means Buick owners enjoy vehicles that deliver consistent performance and fewer unexpected problems, even if the designs aren’t always the most exciting or innovative in their segments.
The Buick Envision compact SUV achieved above-average reliability ratings, representing the brand’s most dependable current offering.
This Chinese-built crossover provides a smooth, quiet ride with ample standard features and a well-appointed interior. The Envision competes in the highly popular compact luxury SUV segment, offering buyers a combination of comfort, technology, and dependability at competitive prices.
Its reliability advantage over some luxury competitors makes it an intelligent choice for buyers prioritizing long-term ownership satisfaction.
However, Buick’s reliability record isn’t perfect. Only the Enclave has below-average reliability among current models, as the three-row midsize SUV was redesigned for the 2024 model year and experienced typical first-year problems. This reinforces the general principle that newly redesigned models often face teething issues regardless of brand.
For buyers seeking an American brand with Japanese-level reliability, Buick offers the best option among domestic manufacturers, particularly for those attracted to the brand’s comfort-focused approach and traditional luxury aesthetic.
9. Tesla (Score: 50)
Tesla jumped from eighteenth place to ninth in the 2025 reliability rankings, representing one of the most dramatic improvements in the survey and marking the company’s first appearance in the top ten.
This achievement is particularly significant for an electric vehicle manufacturer, as EVs generally face more reliability challenges than traditional vehicles.
Tesla’s improvement suggests that the company’s strategy of continuous refinement rather than constant redesigns is paying dividends in quality and dependability.
Tesla’s reliability gains stem from several factors. Unlike traditional automakers that frequently redesign vehicles, Tesla refines its models incrementally over time, often implementing improvements through over-the-air software updates rather than waiting for model-year changes.
This approach allows the company to address issues more rapidly and maintain consistent manufacturing processes. As Tesla’s core models, particularly the Model 3 and Model Y, have matured, the company has identified and resolved common problem areas, leading to improved reliability scores.
The Tesla Model Y emerged as the highest-scoring EV for reliability in Consumer Reports’ survey, demonstrating that electric vehicles can achieve competitive dependability when given time to mature.
The Model Y’s combination of space, performance, technology, and improving reliability makes it an increasingly compelling choice for buyers considering electric vehicles.
Tesla’s electric powertrains, particularly their motors and battery systems, have proven generally reliable, with many of the brand’s problems concentrated in non-powertrain areas like body hardware, paint, and interior electronics.
However, Tesla’s reliability picture remains mixed. The Cybertruck, Tesla’s newest model featuring radical design and numerous new technologies including 48-volt architecture and steer-by-wire, scores below average for reliability, illustrating the challenges of introducing innovative vehicles with unproven systems.
Tesla’s five-to-ten-year-old models rank dead last among all brands for reliability, indicating that while new Teslas are improving, older vehicles face significant longevity challenges.
Potential Tesla buyers should recognize that the brand’s reliability is improving but remains inconsistent, making extended warranty coverage worth considering for long-term ownership peace of mind.
10. Kia (Score: 49)
Kia rounds out the top ten with a reliability score of 49, representing the South Korean brand’s continued quality improvements and growing reputation for dependable vehicles.
This achievement marks significant progress for a manufacturer that once struggled with quality perceptions. Kia’s reliability gains reflect parent company Hyundai Motor Group’s substantial investments in engineering, manufacturing quality, and testing procedures.
The brand now offers buyers attractive styling, generous features, and increasingly competitive reliability at value-oriented prices. The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid emerged as the brand’s most reliable model, showcasing Kia’s success in implementing hybrid technology without compromising dependability.
This minivan provides families with exceptional space, versatility, and features while delivering improved fuel economy through its hybrid powertrain.
The Carnival demonstrates that Kia can execute complex electrified powertrains reliably when given proper development time and using proven technologies.
Its reliability success contrasts with the brand’s challenges in electric vehicles, suggesting that Kia’s conventional hybrids represent the sweet spot between efficiency and dependability.
However, Kia’s reliability record reveals important distinctions between powertrain types. The EV9 electric three-row SUV ranks as the brand’s least reliable model, illustrating the reliability challenges facing electric vehicles.
Problems with the integrated charging control unit (ICCU), a component shared across Hyundai Motor Group’s electric vehicles, affected multiple Korean-brand EVs. This highlights how platform sharing, while offering cost benefits, can spread problems across multiple models when issues arise.
Kia’s mainstream gasoline models generally deliver competitive reliability, with vehicles like the Forte sedan and Sportage SUV offering solid dependability in their segments.
The brand’s generous warranty coverage 10 years/100,000 miles for powertrain and 5 years/60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper provides additional peace of mind and demonstrates Kia’s confidence in its quality.
For budget-conscious buyers seeking dependable transportation with modern features and attractive design, Kia represents an increasingly viable alternative to Japanese brands, particularly when considering the extensive warranty protection that comes with every new Kia vehicle.
Also Read: 10 Affordable Cars That Can Go Toe-to-Toe With a BMW M3
