While the SUV and crossover market has expanded exponentially over recent years, and some of the most reliable cars in the world fall under this segment, not all SUVs can claim to have the same level of dependability. There are plenty of SUVs that everyone regrets buying, partially because they are absolute money pits, and others because they spend more time in the garage than on the road.
Updated July 2023: Reliability is among the most important factors to consider when looking for a new car. If you're thinking about buying an SUV next, you'll be glad to know that we've kept this list up-to-date with the most reliable SUVs around at present.
Not only is this inconsistent reliability annoying, but the long-term implications can be far-reaching and more trouble than it’s worth; from missed appointments to flights and social engagements. So, with plenty of the best SUVs on the market owing their success to reliability, it makes sense to look into which models fall under this category. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 18 most highly-rated:
Based on the most recent J.D. Power reliability scores, these are the 18 most reliable SUVs you can buy in 2023. Also, to help you make an informed decision, we've added recall information from the NHTSA and maintenance and repair costs from RepairPal and CarEdge for one and 10-year periods.
18 2023 Subaru Crosstrek
Predicted Reliability Score: 81/100
Driving more like a car than an SUV, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is essentially a raised Impreza hatchback. Though it has the brand's rugged and utilitarian outdoor styling, riding on meaty tires, the Crosstrek also fits perfectly into the urban lifestyle. For its size, it has more comfort than you expect with a surprisingly roomy interior. Despite its considerable ground clearance, Subaru has tuned the suspension for a comfortable ride on the pavement.
As standard, the 2023 Crosstrek includes remarkable driver assists, a 152-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed manual, and an all-wheel drive system. More power (182 hp and 176 lb-ft) is available with a 2.5-liter unit, which is exclusively paired with a CVT.
2023 Subaru Crosstrek Reliability
Though many SUV buyers have traditionally viewed Subarus as less dependable than Hondas and Toyotas, the Crosstrek is quickly changing the narrative. After 10 years of improvements, it earns a predicted reliability rating of 81/100 from J.D. Power. But there's an even more convincing reason the 2023 Crosstrek deserves to be on this list of reliable SUVs for 2023. It has an excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5 on RepairPal, putting it first in the compact crossover SUV class.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $492 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,915 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Subaru Crosstrek Years To Buy Used: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has the most negative feedback on CarComplaints regarding interior accessories and the suspension
17 2023 Toyota RAV4
Predicted Reliability Score: 81/100
With the RAV4, Toyota has always provided enough substance in its combination of reliability, efficiency, value, and practicality to keep most SUV buyers happy.
For the 2023 Toyota RAV4 model year, the Japanese automaker includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with either front- or all-wheel drive in the ICE variant. AWD is standard in the 219-hp hybrid RAV4 and plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime with 302 hp. The latter is the most powerful RAV4 yet and jumps from zero-to-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
2023 Toyota RAV4 Reliability
The RAV4 is among the best-selling SUVs in the US and has been part of the reason Toyota has a legendary reputation for reliability. J.D. Power awards the 2023 RAV4 a predicted reliability score of 81/100. More proof that as a RAV4 owner, your visits to the mechanic will be extremely rare is RepairPal predicts a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 for the 2023 Toyota RAV4. This puts it third in its rankings in the compact SUV segment.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $429 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,531 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Toyota RAV4 Years To Buy Used: 2019 Toyota RAV4 starts getting transmission problems at 3,450 miles, as per CarComplaints
16 2023 Mazda CX-5
Predicted Reliability Score: 82/100
Having debuted over a decade ago (2012), the CX-5 gets high marks from reviewers for being the most entertaining SUV in its class. Over the years, the CX-5 has evolved into an elegant and sporty SUV outside, with the interior becoming more upscale and of higher quality. The 2023 Mazda CX-5 sits five, but rear passenger space and cargo capacity don't beat many of its rivals.
Plenty of power is available with a 187-hp four-cylinder engine included as standard, while a 256-hp and 320 lb-ft of torque turbocharged engine is optional. A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive come standard across all 2023 CX-5 trims.
2023 Mazda CX-5 Reliability
Now in its second generation since 2017, five years on the market have bred solid reliability in the Mazda CX-5. Only the MX-5 Miata beats the compact crossover SUV in running reliably for hundreds of thousands of miles on Mazda's lineup. According to RepairPal, the Mazda CX-5 has the best reliability of any midsize SUV, with a 4.5 out of 5-star rating. In addition, J.D. Power rates the Mazda CX-5 82/100 in quality and reliability.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $447 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,339 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Mazda CX-5 Years To Buy Used: The 2016 Mazda CX-5 has the most negative feedback on CarComplaints, with lights, brakes, and windshield/windows problems the most common
15 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Predicted Reliability Score: 82/100
One of the cheapest and most compact SUVs on this list, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, has a base list price of $22,995 (MRSP). It looks terrific, but unfortunately, its acceleration, refinement, and interior quality may fall slightly short compared to some of its competitors. However, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport really shines regarding dependability.
2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Reliability
With a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is the seventh most reliable compact SUV out of 26, according to RepairPal. It also has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100 from J.D. Power, which the publication considers "Great."
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $498 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,098 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 60 months/60,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Years To Buy Used: 2015 Outlander Sport for the most electrical, transmission, and engine problems for the model (CarComplaints)
14 2023 Kia Sorento
Predicted Reliability Score: 83/100
Kia's 2023 Sorento is a seven-seater SUV that combines a stylish exterior with a spacious interior. It's offered in five trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige.
It comes standard with a 191-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, all-season tires, manually adjustable front seats, an 8.0-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and other impressive features. The 2023 Kia Sorento also offers a wide array of advanced driver assistance systems to help protect you and your family.
2023 Kia Sorrento Reliability
In addition to its numerous safety features, this midsize SUV has a predicted reliability rating of 83 percent (J.D. Power), making it one of the safest and most reliable SUVs to buy in 2023. RepairPal ranks the Sorrento 12th out of 26 compact SUVs with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $533 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,953 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 60 months/60,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Kia Sorrento Years To Buy Used: 2016 Kia Sorrento for a common engine failure problem at around 84,000 miles, setting back owners $6,870 on average (CarComplaints)
13 2023 Honda CR-V
Predicted Reliability Score: 82/100
The 2023 Honda CR-V is a top-rated compact SUV and has been a huge seller for Honda for over two decades. The SUV comes newly designed for 2023, entering the fourth generation, boasting bigger proportions and more interior space. It also impresses by having a more intuitive infotainment system and a host of standard driver assists included in all trims.
Powertrains for the CR-V include a standard 190-hp turbo four-cylinder, while there's also an optional hybrid powertrain developing 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque.
2023 Honda CR-V Reliability
By reputation, Honda vehicles generally offer a high level of reliability. The 2023 Honda CR-V, a perennial favorite for the top spots of any SUV reliability rankings, is not any different. It is a durable vehicle with parts and mechanicals that rarely fail.
On RepairPal, the Honda CR-V has a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, which is considered "excellent." This puts it second among the most reliable compact SUVs out of 26 total models rated. Also boasting an 82/100 predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power, the Honda CR-V looks like a safe and reliable investment for new SUV shoppers.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $407 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,155 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 1
- Worst Honda CR-V Years To Buy Used: 2015 Honda CR-V has the most complaints about engine problems, which will cost you a lot to fix (CarComplaints)
12 2023 Honda Passport
Predicted Reliability Score: 83/100
The 2023 Honda Passport may not stand out like its rivals in having flair, sportiness, or off-road competence. But it's a respectable all-rounder, larger than the CR-V, with Honda's cutting-edge safety and driver assistance technology at no extra cost.
A lively 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine that tows up to 5,000 lbs makes up for the Honda Passport's few shortcomings. The punchy motor pairs a nine-speed auto transmission and all-wheel drive (standard). The Passport can rip from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
2023 Honda Passport Reliability
Only revived in 2019, the Honda Passport has been very reliable, leading to excellent 2023 predicted reliability ratings. According to J.D. Power, its high 83/100 marks make for a very dependable family hauler.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $672 (YourMechanic)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,283 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Honda Passport Years To Buy Used: The 2001 Honda Passport is prone to having the back of its frame rotting completely through
11 2023 Toyota Venza
Predicted Reliability Score: 83/100
The 2023 Toyota Venza is appealing if you're in the market for a two-row, midsize SUV. Its interior quality and design are more Lexus than Toyota, while its sporty, aggressive look is very striking.
Exclusively using a hybrid powertrain (2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors), the Venza has a total power output of 219 hp. All-wheel drive is standard, enabling a 7.6-second 0-60 mph acceleration.
2023 Toyota Venza Reliability
With a quality and reliability score of 83/100 from J.D. Power, the Venza is a solid SUV that will easily reach 300,000 miles and beyond with proper maintenance.
The Toyota Venza comes third out of 26 in the midsize two-row SUV class as per RepairPal, with a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating. Its low maintenance costs of only $444/year are even more impressive.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $444 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,652 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Toyota Venza Years To Buy Used: 2010 Toyota Venza for brake rotors going bad and the 2009 Venza with prevalent steering and engine problems (CarComplaints)
10 2023 Hyundai Palisade
Predicted Reliability Score: 84/100
The 2023 Hyundai Palisade stands out for its practicality and value for money in the premium full-size SUV class. It debuted in 2020 to replace the Santa Fe XL as the automaker's largest SUV.
The 2023 model boasts a fresher look and new technology like a Wi-Fi hotspot, heated rear seats, and a massaging driver's seat. Hyundai has also redesigned the steering wheel and wheel designs for 2023. The Hyundai Palisade sports an opulent cabin and can ride silky smooth using a potent 3.8-liter V6 engine. Good for 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, the power gets sent to the wheels via an eight-speed auto.
2023 Hyundai Palisade Reliability
The Hyundai Palisade is only a few years old, yet its excellent build quality puts it on the list of the most reliable 2023 SUVs. Even though there aren't many reports on how reliable it is yet because it's so new, there are no major engine or powertrain problems or recalls on NHTSA's website from 2020. The J.D. Power score of 84/100 should give buyers confidence in the Palisade's ability to perform reliably and last 200,000 miles or more.
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,180 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 60 months/60,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 1
- Worst Hyundai Palisade Years To Buy Used: 2021 Hyundai Palisade has the most complaints (134) and recalls (4) on NHTSA's website
9 2023 Lexus RX
Predicted Reliability Score: 85/100
The 2023 Lexus RX is an all-new model, kick-starting the fifth RX generation. It uses the new Toyota Global Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform for lower weight and center of gravity in comparison to the Toyota K platform used by its predecessor.
The base 2023 RX 350 features a very efficient 275-hp 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder. Top of the lineup is a new RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD model with a 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque hybrid power plant.
2023 Lexus RX Reliability
As an overall package, the Lexus RX is very compelling, and this reflects in its J.D. Power overall rating of 85 percent. According to J.D. Power's 2023 US Vehicle Dependability Study, the Lexus RX is the best midsize premium SUV.
Regarding quality and reliability, the Lexus RX is also a top performer, receiving a "Great" rating of 85 percent. On RepairPal, the Lexus RX has a 4 out of 5 reliability rating, which places it third out of 14 among premium midsize SUVs.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $550 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,398 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 48 months/50,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Lexus RX Years To Buy Used: 2007 Lexus RX 350 for common issues with interior and engine components (CarComplaints)
8 2023 Kia Telluride
Predicted Reliability Score: 85/100
The three-row Telluride SUV has been a smashing success for Kia. For 2023, the Korean automaker gave it a styling refresh, making it even more eye-catching. Exterior changes include a reworked grille, new headlamps, and a new front bumper.
The Telluride has a massive equipment list to match its looks, featuring Kia's latest infotainment system. You get a 12.3-inch touch screen, digital gauge cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, five USB ports, and more. Powering the 2023 Kia Telluride is a naturally aspirated V6 that generates 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, allowing the midsize SUV to reach 60 mph in 7.1 seconds.
2023 Kia Telluride Reliability
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,069 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 60 months/60,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 2
- Worst Kia Telluride Years To Buy Used: 2021 Kia Telluride for Windows/ windshield problems at low mileage (CarComplaints)
7 2023 Chevrolet Blazer
Predicted Reliability Score: 86/100
Aside from being a rather handsome brute, we especially appreciate how practical and efficient the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer is. For the current model year, Chevrolet has given the Blazer a few neat touches inside too, including a revamped infotainment unit, a handful of new cosmetic touches, and a wave of new safety enhancements. Despite all these changes, the Blazer has lost none of its credibility where reliability is concerned.
2023 Chevrolet Blazer Reliability
A reliability rating of 86 out of 100 is exemplified by the Blazer’s low maintenance costs, with the average annual bill coming up to around $750. Over time, this will result in an estimated amount of $8,780, which is among the cheapest for a vehicle of this size. Though, do be wary of certain model years that were issued with recalls.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $750 (Estimated)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,780 (CarEdge)
- New Car Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 11
- Worst Model Years To Buy Used: 2020 model has several issues, ranging from the power train to the seat belts, so this year is best avoided (Cars)
6 2023 Cadillac XT5
Predicted Reliability Score: 86/100
There’s no getting away from the fact that the Cadillac XT5 is aging, and it’s certainly starting to show as rivals begin to show up some of its blemishes. Despite this, the big Caddy is still a fantastic option in 2023. Its affordable pricing and exceptionally comfortable interior are two big plus points, but even these pale in comparison to its consistently high-ranking reliability scores.
2023 Cadillac XT5 Reliability
J.D. Power has posted a reliability rating of 86 out of 100 for the XT5, which goes some way to explaining why it is still so popular among customers looking for a new SUV. We’re pretty confident that, with regular services and maintenance, a new XT5 could last you for moon miles before needing any substantial repair work.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $850 (Estimated)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $9,329 (CarEdge)
- New Car Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 11
- Worst Cadillac XT5 Model Years To Buy Used: 2022 XT5 has had as many as four recalls, including issues to the fuel system and the suspension (Cars)
5 2023 Lexus GX
Predicted Reliability Score: 86/100
The 2023 Lexus GX is a compelling choice for those looking to ride in a well-appointed luxury SUV that offers hassle-free motoring. It's an SUV geared towards the off-road environment, and while the cabin is luxurious, dynamic performance may dissatisfy some buyers. It uses the same body-on-frame platform as the Toyota 4Runner and comes equipped with AWD.
Since Lexus revised the GX for the 2022 model year, the vehicle now has an updated infotainment system, meaning a 10.3-inch touchscreen alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2023 Lexus GX Reliability
The Lexus GX only comes with one engine option: a naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 making 301 hp and 329 lb-ft of torque. Code-named 1UR-FE, this power plant is generally recognized for its reliability and durability. Thanks to sturdy Toyota-Lexus engineering, the GX SUV has scored 5/5 on Consumer Reports reliability reports since 2020. In fact, the 2023 model was the most reliable vehicle in the Consumer Reports survey released last year, with a perfect overall score of 100/100.
J.D. Power concurs, giving the 2023 Lexus G.X. an excellent 86/100 score for quality and reliability. The same publication also placed the Lexus GX second in the midsize premium SUV category in its 2023 US Vehicle Dependability Study, only behind the Lexus RX.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $770 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,652 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 48 months/50,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Lexus GX Years To Buy Used: 2006 Lexus GX460 with common issues like secondary air injector failure, brake failure, and cracked exhaust manifold (CarComplaints)
4 2023 Toyota 4Runner
Predicted Reliability Score: 87/100
Nowadays, most high-riding vehicles shy away from being true SUVs in both form and function. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, however, stands out since it is still a body-on-frame SUV.
It offers traditional truck off-roading capability thanks to 4WD and can tow 5,000 lbs. Toyota includes a 276-hp 4.0-liter V6 mated with a five-speed automatic transmission to feed this truck-based SUV with big power.
2023 Toyota 4Runner Reliability
A stalwart of Toyota's lineup since 1984, the Toyota 4Runner has always been a top-rated SUV for reliability. It remains one of the longest-lasting SUVs that can reach 500,000 miles thanks to its highly dependable 4.0-liter 1GR-FE V6 engine. J.D. Power doesn't expect the 2023 Toyota 4Runner to surprise owners with issues, giving it an 87/100 in predicted reliability.
Elsewhere, the 4Runner places ninth out of 26 in the midsize SUVs category in RepairPal books, with a 4 out of 5 reliability score.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $514 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,825 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Toyota 4Runner Years To Buy Used: 2003-2005 4Runners for poor build quality in body/paint and interior accessories (CarComplaints)
3 2023 Lincoln Nautilus
Predicted Reliability Score: 88/100
Based on the Ford Edge, the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus is a large SUV that’s plush with high-quality materials and plenty of technology to match. Perhaps the most impressive part about the Nautilus, aside from its sheer road presence and its value for money (starting price of $44,825), the Nautilus’ biggest strength is its reliability.
2023 Lincoln Nautilus Reliability
J.D. Power has given the Nautilus a reliability and quality rating of 88 out of 100, ranking it among the highest on this list. It’s clear how much time and effort has been put into creating a high-class feel throughout the luxury SUV.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,000 (Estimated)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $11,326 (CarEdge)
- New Car Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 2
- Worst Lincoln Nautilus Model Years To Buy Used: The 2019 model year has been known to have issues with the steering assist and electrical cluster (Cars)
2 2023 Kia Sportage
Predicted Reliability Score: 88/100
The 2023 Kia Sportage is an all-new generation of the SUV that uses the brand's N3 platform. While it isn't the sportiest compact crossover SUV, the new Sportage has many standard and practical features. Bigger than its predecessor, it offers more inside space and has a larger trunk while remaining affordable. Unsurprisingly, the Kia Sportage is very popular.
Power in the pure combustion 2023 Sportage comes from a 187-hp four-cylinder. There is a hybrid variant pairing a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined 226 hp, and a plug-in hybrid variant generating 261 hp.
2023 Kia Sportage Reliability
Kia is a brand typically associated with great reliability, and the Sportage SUV certainly doesn't disappoint. Achieving 88/100 in J.D. Power's predicted reliability, it ranks sixth in the compact SUV category. RepairPal also agrees that the Sportage is among the best 2023 SUVs for reliability, awarding it a 4 out of 5 score that puts it sixth out of 26 in its class. The only concern is it has had three recalls so far in 2023.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $462 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,873 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 60 months/60,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 3
- Worst Kia Sportage Years To Buy Used: Engine issues plagued the 2011 and 2012 Kia Sportage, costing owners $5,600 to fix engine failure (CarComplaints)
1 2023 Nissan Murano
Predicted Reliability Score: 90/100
Priced from $33,660, boasting a stylish design, and a powerful 260-hp 3.5-liter V6 under the hood, the Murano is likely to appeal to many prospective buyers. The ride is comfortable, and Nissan has focussed on refinement and luxury, making long journeys exciting.
All four trim levels are well-equipped, and an "Intelligent All-Wheel Drive" system helps buyers deal with challenging weather conditions. The only major downside with the Murano is its less-than-confident handling.
2023 Nissan Murano Reliability
The Nissan Murano sits at the perch of 2023 SUVs with high-reliability ratings. It earns an impressive predicted dependability of 90/100 from J.D. Power, alongside a 5-star NHTSA safety rating. The 3.5-liter VQ-Series – which is one of the most dependable V6 engines around – is responsible for its astounding dependability.
Moreover, since Nissan introduced the third-gen Murano in 2014, the platform has matured and become solid with time. However, having overstayed, the expectation is for a new and redesigned 2024 model year Murano.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $507 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,577 (CarEdge)
- New Vehicle Warranty: Limited 36 months/36,000 miles
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Nissan Murano Years To Buy Used: The 2015 Murano for transmission problems at around 18k miles that require around $5000 to fix (CarComplaints)