If you're looking for a new vehicle it pays to know what the most reliable brands are so that you know where your money will be well spent with a vehicle that can stand the test of time. A few Japanese and Korean automakers are typically what come to mind when consumers think of long-term reliability for a car. Big names like Honda, Kia, Toyota, and Subaru are commonly at the top of the list. And this year is no different.
When it comes to the most reliable car brands in 2024, Toyota tops the bill, and in fact, fills the bill almost entirely according to Consumer Reports. It took seven of the top ten spots in the latest version of their Top 10 Most Reliable Cars.
Reliable New Cars
Buying a new car that's both affordable and reliable is especially important for borrowers with credit issues. Taking a look at the various vehicle segments, affordability usually dictates choosing a subcompact or compact car. These vehicles are not only more affordable to finance – meaning they can save you money on interest expenses - but in most cases they're also more affordable to insure. They can also save you at the gas pump.
However, there is also a difference between the price of a vehicle and its cost. The price is the figure you pay for it, while its cost includes the aforementioned insurance and fuel expenses, as well as its maintenance costs. Those maintenance costs usually can be attributed to how reliable a vehicle is.
Most Reliable Vehicles This Year
Since purchasing a vehicle is a long-term investment, it pays to have a car that can stand the test of time. Consumer Reports conducts an annual auto survey to find which cars, trucks, and SUVs are most dependable according to the people who own them.
The latest version of the study shows that one name can't be beat when it comes to reliable vehicles in 2024 – Toyota. Here are the top 10 most reliable vehicles according to Consumer Reports.
2024 Toyota 4Runner
- Reliability Score 87
The 4Runner is unique because it retains a body-on-frame construction, which many SUVs have moved away from. With its impressive off-road capabilities, unique tailgate, and available third-row seating the 4Runner is sure to impress. It has been a reliable staple of the Toyota lineup for years.
2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid
- Reliability Score 87
The Toyota Camry Hybrid has excellent fuel economy and provides a comfortable ride for a sedan. Among its finer points are easy-to-use intuitive controls, and the fact that the hybrid battery doesn't cut into your trunk space.
2024 Toyota Camry
- Reliability Score 86
The Camry gets good fuel economy, though nowhere near the amount of its hybrid sibling, has a comfortable cabin, and is said to have excellent stopping distance and easy-to-use controls. Owners do say there is a lot of engine noise, however.
2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime
- Reliability Score 84
The Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEV is great on fuel and can travel up to 42 miles on electricity alone. It has powerful acceleration and a smooth ride. The controls are also intuitive and easy to use.
2024 BMW X5
- Reliability Score 82
The BMW X5 is said to have a comfortable, but firm ride, an ultra-quiet interior, strong acceleration, a smooth transmission, and short braking distances. This luxury vehicle does a good job of keeping the luxurious feel in a fun-to-drive SUV.
2024 Subaru Forester
- Reliability Score 82
The Subaru Forester has a roomy interior, great visibility, easy-to-use controls, and features strong fuel economy. The SUV is said to have a comfortable ride but can be noisy at times due to the engine.
2024 Toyota RAV4
- Reliability Score 80
The gas-only RAV4 has long been a staple of the Toyota lineup. Today, it falls to the middle of the pack, and its hybrid and plug-in hybrid siblings tend to do better. However, this compact SUV still has great fuel economy.
2024 Acrua RDX
- Reliability Score 80
The Acura RDX has been shown to have agile handling, good acceleration, and comfortable seating. Plus it has short braking distances and a quality interior and assembly.
2024 Toyota Corolla
- Reliability Score 77
The 2024 Corolla has good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and clear controls. For someone who isn't worried about having the absolute best fuel economy this is a good pick, though the Corolla Hybrid is higher on the list.
2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- Reliability Score 75
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid rounds out the list with good fuel economy for a midsized SUV, a comfortable ride, easy-to-use controls, and a roomy second row. This three-row SUV is a good choice for people who need a larger vehicle.
Why Is Reliability Important in a Car?
In this case, buying a reliable, affordable car can be a winning combination. Reliability means having a vehicle that may encounter fewer issues as time goes on and may mean a higher resale value when the time comes to purchase again.
If given the choice of a new car once they've received loan approval, borrowers with tarnished credit would be better off picking the model with a better record of reliability. Certainly, the latest results from Consumer Reports should point buyers in the right direction.
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