With the price of cars steadily rising, it is no wonder that consumers want to purchase vehicles that are built to last. To help narrow the list of reliable new car options, we have gathered a list of the most reliable automakers and models going into 2021. This list's predictions are based on the data collected by Consumer Report's rankings of the past three model years of used cars.
This list has been compiled using the most recent data available and confirmed by cross-referencing other lists to determine the most accurate data. Keep reading below to find out more specific information about each make and model of the most reliable vehicles.
These rankings are based on the findings from Consumer Reports, which ranks cars based areas including but not limited to squeaky brakes, broken interior trim, out-of-warranty transmission repairs, and trouble with four-wheel-drive systems. They weight each area to create a Predicted Reliability Score for each vehicle, from 1 to 100. The score is combined with CR’s owner satisfaction survey and personal testing to calculate each test vehicle’s overall score.
Top 10 most reliable car brands in 2020
(including CR’s average reliability score)
1. Mazda (83)
2. Toyota (74)
3. Lexus (71)
4. Buick (70)
5. Honda (63)
6. Hyundai (62)
7. Ram (58)
8. Subaru (57)
9. Porsche (55)
10. Dodge (54)
Top 10 least reliable car brands in 2020
1. Chevrolet (42)
2. Volvo (41)
3. Jeep (41)
4. Mercedes-Benz (40)
5. Cadillac (38)
6. Ford (38)
7. Mini (37)
8. Volkswagen (36)
9. Tesla (29)
10. Lincoln (8)
Top 10 most reliable car brands and models of 2021
Toyota Prius
Price: $24,525
Fuel Economy: 58/53 MPG
Highlights: Excellent fuel economy, Plenty of passenger room front and rear, Hatchback design with adequate cargo space, Lots of safety features, Front and AWD, Electric-gas hybrid
Who should buy?: Toyota is consistently ranked high on J.D. Power's dependability lists with models such as the Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla. The energy-efficient hatchback is an excellent choice for anyone who wants an affordable and dependable car that has great fuel economy.
Lexus NX
Price: Starting at $37,510
Fuel Economy: 22/28 MPG
Highlights: The NX comes equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment display, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth connectivity, Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, Power-folding auto-dimming side mirrors are included on all trims, Power-operated tailgate with kick activation.
Who should buy?: For those who value a mix of luxury brand and dependability, then the Lexus NX is a great choice. The Lexus NX has lots of options to upgrade from the base model, all of which come with a smooth and safe ride.
Buick Encore
Price: $24,600
Fuel Economy: 24/32 MPG
Highlights: Better-looking redesign than previous models, Right-sized urban runabout, Upgraded interior, More safety gear, and Better infotainment.
Who should buy?: The Encore is a great choice for Buick fans, especially after the Buick Regal has been discontinued. Anyone who wants a subcompact SUV that comes loaded with luxury amenities will enjoy the Encore.
Lexus GX
Price: $53,250
Fuel Economy: 15/19 MPG
Highlights: Off-Road capabilities, Great ride with soft suspension, standard driver-assistance tech, and quiet interior.
Who should buy?: While the Lexus GX is not as fuel-efficient as some of the other models on this list, it makes up for its luxury style and amenities. With tons of space and more style than any minivan, those who want class and the ability to venture off-road, the Lexus GX does all that and more.
Honda HR-V
Price: $22,140
Fuel Economy: 28/34 MPG
Highlights: Sporty handling, incredible gas mileage, spacious cargo hold, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto integration, and automatic emergency braking.
Who should buy?: Fans of the Honda Accord or Honda Civic who need a little extra space should check out the HR-V. The HR-V is for drivers who value practicality and are on a budget. The crossover SUV comes with fantastic fuel economy and is built to last.
Toyota Prius Prime
Price: $28,220
Fuel Economy: 55/53 MPG
Highlights: Fantastic fuel economy, smooth ride automatic transmission, excellent handling, all-wheel drive, spacious cabin, and tons of safety features.
Who should buy?: If you value the supreme fuel economy and want a higher-end vehicle than the base Prius model, the Prius Prime is a great option. If you commute less than 25 miles per day with the hybrid electric-gas ability, you run just off electric.
Hyundai Kona
Price: $21,540
Fuel Economy: 28/32 MPG
Highlights: Turbo and electric options, all-wheel drive availability, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, driver-attention monitor, and easy-to-use infotainment system.
Who should buy?: Those looking for a fun to drive subcompact crossover, the Kona with its turbocharger option will give you that extra punch in horsepower without sacrificing reliability. Rated the best subcompact SUV by Kelley Blue Book, the Kona is an excellent option in its class when compared to its competitors like Kia, Nissan, and Acura.
Audi A5
Price: $41,800
Fuel Economy: 25/34 MPG
Highlights: Coupe, convertible, or 5-door hatchback, Sporty S5 models, Practical A5 Sportback, Sophisticated interior, Quattro all-wheel drive, and Wireless Apple CarPlay and lane-departure warning now standard.
Who should buy?: Audi has increasingly become higher rated in reliability compared to luxury car competitors like BMW, making it an excellent option for those who want a luxury coupe with tons of options to upgrade, including Audi's sports car, the S5.
Audi A4
Price: $39,100
Fuel Economy: 24/31 MPG
Highlights: Great blend of style, performance, technology, Competitively priced, All have Quattro all-wheel drive, and turbocharged engines.
Who should buy?: The A4 is highly ranked as a luxury midsize sedan by Kelley Blue Book, but its high-reliability rating accompanies the luxury drive and features compared to its competitors.
Mazda CX-5
Price: $25,270
Fuel Economy: 25/31 MPG
Highlights: Sporty handling, Potent turbocharged engine option, Upscale interior, and Long list of standard features.
Who should buy?: While not as sporty as the Mazda MX-5, the Mazda CX-5 has all the feelings of a luxury compact SUV without the luxury price tag. This is a great option for those who value reliability, luxury, and performance without breaking the bank.
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