If you’re in the market for a used, dependable car, these models have excellent reliability scores and won’t let you down....CONTINUE READING
You don’t have to be a serious car enthusiast to appreciate elite supercars, exhilarating sports cars, monstrous off-road 4x4s, and the raw power of muscle cars.
Most drivers respect the more extreme vehicles on offer, but most of the time they’re focused on everyday cars that offer basic comfort, fuel economy, affordability, and reliability. These are the qualities that the majority of car manufacturers strive for when designing new models, and updating existing ones.
Some car brands do it better than others. Many of the manufacturers in Germany and Japan produce reliable cars, but there are also American brands such as Ford and Chevrolet who have gained a reputation for making solid cars.
Brands like BMW, Honda, Audi, Toyota, Subaru, and Volkswagen are usually mentioned when there is talk of reliable used cars. Some of the models these companies released decades ago are still going strong today.
With the cost of living ever rising, more and more drivers are looking for durable used cars, and newer models that can potentially run for a decade and still retain some decent sell-on value.
If this sounds like you, and you’re not interested in the most reliable car ever, which some claim is the Toyota Camry, then you should consider the alternative options on this list of cars, that we compiled from research from sources such as What Car?, J.D. Power, and Kelley Blue Book.
10 2023 Toyota Corolla
Toyota released the Corolla back in the mid-60s and as it began to evolve through the generations, it became a car known worldwide for its reliability.
It’s never been what you could describe as a spectacular car in any metric, but that’s not what this car is about. It’s a steady vehicle that will get its owner around from day to day without any fuss and without burning a hole in any pockets. The Toyota Corolla is now in its twelfth generation and is still going strong in terms of sales and reliability.
These cars don’t have many obvious flaws. If you service them properly, they’ll just keep on going. The new models are available in several trim levels and engine types, including gas and hybrid.
J.D. Power gave the 2023 Toyota Corolla a score of 81 out of 100, which puts it up there with the likes of the Honda Civic. It gets 85 for reliability and quality. With a starting price of approximately $21,000, it’s a new car to take a close look at if you’re looking for longevity.
9 2014-2019 Kia Soul
Another car that J.D. Power scores 81 out of 100 is the second-generation Kia Soul. This South Korean subcompact isn’t to everyone’s taste with its boxy van-like styling, but you can’t argue about its staying power.
These models came in both 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter engine options, with manual and automatic transmissions. It’s not a car that’s intended to get your pulse racing, but it’s a great option for a family daily driver, though. It’s got plenty of space inside for seating several passengers and lots of storage areas.
Kelley Blue Book values the 2014 Kia Soul at just $8,710, which makes this a viable option for cost-conscious drivers. If you like to bring the family on road trips, the second-generation Kia Soul is one of the best cars for sale.
8 2023 Honda Civic
If you’re willing to raid your bank account for more than $10,000, then perhaps you should look away from the Soul and set your sights on a more ambitious car. The many editions of the 2023 Honda Civic are some of the most reliable new cars available.
That’s hardly a surprise, though. Honda has been making the Civic since 1972. That’s over five decades of manufacturing, which should be an indication of how popular this model is.
Its popularity is down to many factors – mostly depending on the type of driver you are. Some love these for the speed and handling, others for the modifiability, and others for their relatively low price. But all Honda Civic owners will attest to how reliable the car is. They seem to last forever and can take a lot of punishment.
The eleventh generation of these Japanese-made motors hit the roads in 2021. And like many previous iterations, the current generation has been a hit with drivers.
There are plenty of editions to suit almost every type of car owner out there. The base price is approximately $23,750. Considering this car scored 82 out of 100 with J.D. Power, that’s a well-priced vehicle.
7 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Hyundai has a growing reputation for reliability. One of its most popular models is the Tucson, which first appeared in 2005. Now in its fourth generation, the Tucson seems to be getting more and more popular.
And with good reason. It’s a solid vehicle. The hybrid options are particularly reliable. What Car? gave the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid a reliability score of 100%. Beat that! It scored “superior” with front crash prevention from the IIHS, so it’s also a good choice for those who also value safety.
The Tucson has a reputation as a family SUV that won’t let you down. Kelley Blue Book valued the 2022 model hybrid at just under $31,000. That’s a bargain used car if the scores are anything to go by.
6 1994 Lexus LS 400
You can pick up one of these luxurious classics with much lower mileage for a price of $12,500. If you’re willing to do some restoration work, the price range goes a lot lower than that. Cars.com gave this vehicle a rating of 4.3/5.0.
5 2013-2020 Lexus IS
The Lexus IS, also known as the Toyota Altezza, got released in 1998 to widespread acclaim. Lexus engineered these cars to compete with European sedans, and they did just that. They were popular with motorists all around the world for their reasonable price, performance, and reliability.
The first generation has become a popular choice with modified car enthusiasts because they are so durable and can take the strain up upgraded performance parts. The later models of this Lexus sedan are no different. They are super reliable and will get you anywhere you want to go.
Lexus unleashed the third generation in 2013, and it was a particularly great car. J.D. Power gives this model a score of 85 out of 100, and it is the highest-ranked car in the Compact Premium class.
What Car? places the Lexus IS at the top of their Executive list with a score of 98.3%. There are several editions of this generation, but all represent great value and reliability for savvy drivers.
4 2015-2020 Honda Jazz
Honda always scores high on the reliability and durability lists. They build their cars to last, they don’t have many inherent flaws, and they are great fun to drive. Most are affordable compared to most other brands, and the Jazz is one such example. What Car? awarded this model of the Honda Jazz with a score of 98.7%.
A used 2019 Honda Jazz will set you back on average of just over $17,000 according to Kelley Blue Book, and for that price, you’ll get yourself a used car that will get you around for many years.
3 2018 Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen is a car manufacturer notorious for constructing solid and durable vehicles. The Touareg, which first became available in 2002, is a perfect example of this.
The Touareg has had many editions and engines available, and all score high for reliability and longevity. The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg got unveiled in 2018 to rave reviews. This vehicle is the highest-rated luxury SUV according to What Car? with a score of 98%.
Like previous models of Touareg, there are a number of editions available. If you enjoy performance with your reliable vehicle, then the plug-in hybrid will satisfy your needs. The 3.0-liter V8 turbocharged model has a total system output of 456 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.
2 2011-2020 Lexus CT
As with almost all Lexus models, this car has a reputation for its ability to stand the test of time, while offering motorists a comfortable drive with enough room to pack in a family with ease.
1 2016 Mini Convertible
Planning on going on a cross-country road trip? The Mini Convertible is the car you should consider for it. The old reliable Mini Series has been around since the 1950s and has always been a car that drivers look to for durability.
It might not be the most practical for everyone due to its size, but there are few vehicles that can match it for reliability. What Car? scored the 2016 Mini Convertible at 100%.
Every individual car can have problems, despite the brand or model’s reliability record. Whenever you’re planning to buy a used car, always make sure to give it a check with the help of a mechanic before you part with your money…CONTINUE READING>>
