You buy an SUV to get family, friends, luggage, and pets from point A to point B without worrying about having the right amount of space. The big worry is whether the vehicle will get you around without breaking down, which is what reliability is all about. According to Consumer Reports, the best way to know if an SUV is what it is cracked up to be is by asking current and past owners what their thoughts are.
There are a few other reputable companies that also give ratings for various cars, but most of them are about levels of reliability through personal testing and opinions.
Let's take a look at some of the most reliable SUVs on the market by breaking down each vehicle over the last two decades that are high on reliability ratings and low on customer dissatisfaction.
We have compiled the information provided below using information from the Consumer Reports website for the most part, but we have also used data from sites such as RepairPal, CarEdge, and J.D. Power.
Updated June 20, 2023: One of the most important points is whether it will be reliable when looking for an SUV. That is why we have decided to refresh and update this list instead of letting it get lost in the multitudes of other articles online that have become outdated. You will find all the original reliable SUVs and a few others to broaden your options.
15 2023 Ford Escape Hybrid
Predicted Reliability: 3/5
Hybrids are among the most popular choices for consumers who want to save the environment but still have internal combustion power when needed. The 2022 Ford Escape Hybrid is driven by a small 2.5-liter three-cylinder engine that can switch to two cylinders for better fuel economy. Along with this small engine is one electric motor that can become the main driving motor and an add-on to help the fuel-driven engine.
Reliability
For the 2022 model year, the Ford Escape Hybrid scored a 5 out of 5 reliability rating from Consumer Reports. However, for 2023, the score is expected to drop to 3 out of 5. The seals leak, allowing moisture and road noise into the cabin, creating an atmosphere that is not optimal for long-term driving.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $775 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,721 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Escape Hybrid Year To Buy Used: N/A because 2023 is the first year of production
14 2023 Mazda CX-9
Predicted Reliability: 3/5
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 delivers slightly better fuel economy than much of the in-class competition because the carmaker put a turbocharged 16-valve four-cylinder under the hood instead of the V-6 typical for this SUV size. This makes the car a little less impressive in acceleration. However, it still has enough power to get to 60 from zero in under eight seconds.
Reliability
The only real problem reported with the CX-9 is with the in-car electronics, including the cameras and sensors. For 2022, Consumer Reports gave the Mazda CX-9 a 5 out of 5 reliability score. However, for the 2023 model year, a decision is yet to be made. Considering the fact that the previous year received a 2 out of 5 with in-car electronics, it is hard to give the Mazda CX-9 a higher score than this until it proves itself worthy.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $462 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,574 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst CX-9 Year To Buy Used: 2014 Mazda CX-9 (in-car electronics, rattles when driving, drivetrain, body hardware, engine, paint, and trim)
13 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
Lexus has a substantial amount of SUVs that rated above the 90 score threshold, but since many of them were the same model, just different years, they were not all included on this list. The engine under the hood is a reliable and economical 3.5-liter V-6, with three electric motors to help when needed or to run the car when no excess power is required.
Reliability
For 2022, the Lexus RX Hybrid was given a reliability rating of just 4 out of 5, which was a downgrade from 2021's rating of 5 out of 5. For 2023, the Lexus RX is expected to carry on with a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, though there is no overall score available yet. The primary problem owners have logged is within the fuel system, which causes hesitation and stalling.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $540 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,734 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst RX Hybrid Year To Buy Used: N/A because 2023 is the first year of production
12 2023 Subaru Forester
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
Subaru is one of the most common SUVs bought and sold today, but it only has one model ranking in the top 10 and two in the top 15. The Forester's base engine under the hood is a 2.5-liter flat-four that does great on fuel mileage but not so great on acceleration. Even so, the Forester has plenty of real-world power to pass, merge, and enter traffic in most situations.
Reliability
The 2022 Subaru Forester ended the year with a Consumer Reports reliability score of 5 out of 5 and an overall score of 87. The 2023 model has yet to be tested or reviewed. However, it's expected to have a 4 out of 5 reliability score. The main reliability issues that the Forester has revolves around the in-car electronics that can not only be highly annoying but lowers the safety of the SUV because of problems with sensors and cameras.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $617 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,931 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Forester Year To Buy Used: 2010 Subaru Forester (cylinder head problems, air leaks, water leaks, catalytic converter failure, engine timing belt, and clutch)
11 2023 Toyota RAV4
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
Back in the mid-1990s, the Toyota RAV4 set the precedence for the car-based SUV, but today that is not the case because there are so many in the same class. Don't take that wrong, though, because the RAV4 is still one of the top in the class, featuring a peppy 2.5-liter engine that is one of the most powerful in the segment, propelling the SUV from 0 to 60 in under 6 seconds.
Reliability
The reliability of the 2023 RAV4 received a 4 out of 5, which is an average of the two preceding years. However, since the 2022 model year was a solid 5 out of 5, this year can be expected to be a good one. The only major complaint that anyone has about the Toyota RAV4 is the comfort level, which is still the minority of the owners that have responded to the polls sent out by Consumer Reports.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $441 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,531 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst RAV4 Year To Buy Used: 2020 Toyota RAV4 (electrical system, headlight shorts, minor engine issues, and in-car electronics)
10 2023 Lexus NX
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
The Lexus NX comes with four engine choices, two of which are internal combustion engines and two are hybrid, with one being a plug-in version. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is the base engine that the SUV has, but upgraded trim levels can be had with the turbocharged 2.4-liter. The ride is smooth, and the interior is plush, with an infotainment center that has been upgraded to meet the needs of the modern public.
Reliability
Just like the 2022 model year, the Lexus NX is predicted to have a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 for 2023. Either engine choice will get excellent mileage, and the only bad thing owners had to say about the NX was that the body integrity was not up to par with the sticker price. The previous year did have a few issues with the in-car electronics, so you can expect a few minor hiccups in the 2023 model year as well.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $690 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,136 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst NX Year To Buy Used: 2016 Lexus NX (cooling system, minor engine issues, and window assembly problems)
9 2023 Lincoln Nautilus
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus is another car designed for fuel efficiency, but there was also a lot of thought put into the noise. The twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 is one of the quietest engines on the market and has plenty of pep to get up and go. The improved suspension allows this SUV to corner with some of the best on the market, reducing roll to a minimum and absorbing imperfections like they were non-existent.
Reliability
The Nautilus wasn't ranked for the 2022 model year, though in 2021, it was ranked number one of 12 in reliability among 2021 SUVs. For 2023, Consumer Reports predicts a reliability score of 4 out of 5, with an overall score of 79. The only issues reported by happy customers are within the borders of the common problem that most Ford vehicles have - the paint peels and flakes quickly, allowing rust to set in and eat through the frame and body.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $879 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $11,326 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 1 (child seat tether welds)
- Worst Nautilus Year To Buy Used: 2019 Lincoln Nautilus (in-car electronics, fuel system, climate controls, suspension, temperature system, and power equipment)
8 2023 Acura RDX
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder mill has enough power to propel the SUV from 0 to 60 MPH in a matter of 6.7 seconds, all while offering good fuel economy. The ten-speed automatic transmission is well suited for the SUV, shifting smoothly and without drawing any attention to itself. The interior is comfortable and luxurious, and the safety technology is top-of-the-line.
Reliability
The 2022 Acura RDX was given a reliability rating of 5 out of 5 for the 2022 model year. However, for 2023, Consumer Reports predicts that the reliability rating will drop to 4 out of 5. The main problem listed by consumers is once again centered around the in-car electronics, including the parking sensors and backup cameras, but the testers also ran into a slight problem with the transmission. They noticed some slippage when shifting through the gears. Even though it is not considered a warning sign of impending failure, it can be annoying, to say the least.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $497 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $9,610 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst RDX Year To Buy Used: 2015 Acura RDX (transmission sensor, premature brake wear, rear suspension, and major engine issues)
7 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
One of the most popular models that Subaru produces is the Impreza, which is a hatchback; otherwise, it would be at the top of this list. Since the Crosstrek is created on the same platform, with the majority of the same components, it is safe to say that the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is one of the best SUVs the company offers. It features a 2.0-liter hybrid engine and motor combination that can get up to 33 miles per gallon.
Reliability
Even though Consumer Reports has not collected enough data to give the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid an accurate reliability rating, the company has given it a 4 out of 5 due to past models and data. Like every other vehicle on the market, the Crosstrek does have some problems reported by owners, with the most common being that it is hard to handle on bad roads.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $492 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,915 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Crosstrek Hybrid Year To Buy Used: 2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid (in-car electronics, back door that doesn't unlock, uncomfortable front seats, and infotainment system faults)
6 2023 Mazda CX-5
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
The Mazda CX-5 entered its second generation in 2017, and to this day, it has kept most of its sporty roots while improving its future as a viable compact crossover SUV. The standard powertrain offers the driver around 187 horses. When combined with the six-speed automatic, it gives smooth shifting with effortless acceleration. If you are looking for blinding speed, the Mazda CX-5 may not be the best choice for you, but it will definitely fit the bill as a good all-around SUV.
Reliability
Last year you more than likely heard about the issues that the Mazda CX-5 had with its braking system, especially the one linked to the automatic braking in line with the safety software. Numerous people had the brakes fail when they should have stopped the vehicle, resulting in accidents. Mazda has claimed to have fixed the problem, so Consumer Reports has only marked off one point this year, giving the 2023 Mazda CX-5 a predicted reliability of 4 out of 5.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $462 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,339 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst CX-5 Year To Buy Used: 2013 Mazda CX-5 (engine computer, oil leaks, ABS failure, premature brake failure, electric system, and transmission problems)
5 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
According to Motor Trend, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is number one in the three-row hybrid SUVs for the year, so you know that even though Consumer Reports has not put them as the highest ranked in reliability, the Highlander Hybrid is an excellent SUV to have. Under the hood, you will find a hybrid system linked through a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder that works in tandem with two electric motors, giving a combined horsepower of 243.
Reliability
Consumer Reports had their work cut out for them when trying to figure out a reliability rating for the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid because 2023 was the first year of production. The professionals there decided to base the 4 out of 5 reliability rating on the ICE model until they can develop more data. If everything holds true, you can expect a few minor issues with in-car electronics and the climate control system.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $489 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,693 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Highlander Hybrid Year To Buy Used: N/A because 2023 is the first year of production
4 2023 Lexus GX
Predicted Reliability: 4/5
Another Lexus to score over 90 is the GX, with the 2020 model year being the best. It is an old-school version of a luxurious SUV that is capable on and off the road. It only comes with one engine option, the 4.6-liter V-8, so it does not get the best gas mileage, but it is quiet and powerful. It is important to note that even though the Lexus GX is built on a truck foundation, it is not made to haul heavy loads, limited to a maximum of 6,500 pounds.
Reliability
The Lexus GX has garnered a reliability rating of 5 out of 5 every year since 2020 and is expected to achieve the same 5 out of 5 reliability rating in 2023. The only real issue that can be found being reported is the in-car electronics. The infotainment center is one cause for concern, as are the parking sensors and backup cameras.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $551 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,652 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst GX Year To Buy Used: 2019 Lexus GX (paint, trim, body hardware, suspension, steering, and drive system)
3 2023 Lincoln Corsair
Predicted Reliability: 5/5
The 2022 Lincoln Corsair is based on the same platform as the Ford Escape but with the added luxury and upgrades expected from a Lincoln. There are numerous engine options to choose from, even a hybrid on the Grand Touring Model. The smooth ride offers a gentle, luxurious ride for all passengers, as expected from an upscale Lincoln brand.
Reliability
For the 2023 model year, the Lincoln Corsair has a predicted reliability of 5 out of 5, which is identical to its ranking in 2022. The only problem consumers report centers around the in-car electronics, which seems to be the main issue with most of the newer models coming out with the most innovative technology available. Anything new has to be expected to have a few problems, especially when it deals with sensors, cameras, and large infotainment systems.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $879 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $11,121 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 1 (engine vapor in a stalled vehicle may cause a fire)
- Worst Corsair Year To Buy Used: 2021 (paint, trim, noises when driving, water leaks)
2 2023 Kia EV6
Predicted Reliability: 5/5
According to Consumer Reports, the top overall-ranking electric SUV is the Kia EV6, which has only existed for a few years. Powering the little EV is a single motor on the rear axle or a combination of two electric motors, one on the front and one on the back, to turn the EV6 into an all-wheel drive SUV. An all-wheel drive SUV that can be unleashed to play as a sports car if you opt for the GT version.
Reliability
Consumer Reports, having ranked the Kia EV6 as the best in the electric SUV segment, also gives the little SUV a 5 out of 5 in reliability based on previous model years. The only thing owners have ever complained about is that the brakes wear out prematurely. However, that could be because of the hard driving that simply goes with driving such a sporty SUV.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $474 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4,740 (RepairPal (474x10))
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst EV6 Year To Buy Used: N/A because both years of production have been 5/5
1 2023 Lexus NX Hybrid
Predicted Reliability: 5/5
Getting the number one rating from Consumer Reports in the luxury compact SUV segment is an accomplishment worth bragging about, which is why the 2023 Lexus NX Hybrid is number one on this list. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, aided with two electric motors, one on each axle. A third starter motor is also attached to the engine, combining three electric motors with the internal combustion engine.
Reliability
The Lexus NX Hybrid achieved a 5 out of 5 reliability rating in 2022, and for 2023, Consumer Reports is expecting to give the same 5 out of 5 reliability rating. The only problem that can be found on this SUV is that the power may be a little shy of what is needed, but everything else is perfect.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $551 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,136 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst NX Hybrid Year To Buy Used: 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid (Noises while driving, leaks, and minor suspension problems)
FAQ
Q: What SUV has the least amount of problems?
Lexus is, without a doubt, one of the most reliable SUVs on the planet. Year after year, the models achieve over 90 out of 100 for reliability. Overall, as everything sits now, the best SUV to buy that has the least amount of problems is the 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid.
Q: What is the number one SUV in America?
The current best-selling SUV on the market is the Toyota RAV-4, beating out the Honda CR-V for the top spot by almost 25,000 examples so far. Of course, this sales level could change by the end of the day, but for now, Toyota is the top dog.
Q: What SUV gets the best fuel economy?
The 2022 Ford Hybrid Escape is the SUV with the best fuel economy. The internal combustion engine, plus the electric motors, can get a combined fuel mileage of 40. The hybrid motor alone can go 37 miles without the aid of the fuel-driven motor, but that does not actually count when wanting to know the fuel mileage. Either way, the Ford Hybrid Escape is the best on the market through 2022.