SUVs comprise some of the most competitive segments in the entire automotive industry, and manufacturers have to tick plenty of boxes in order to stand a chance among rivals. One of the most important boxes is definitely reliability and durability because it doesn’t matter how well an SUV performs if it can’t do so in the long run.

UPDATE: 2023/10/10 23:53 EST BY MARTIN PETER

Owning an SUV is pointless if it can't give you reliable service for many years. We've updated this article with more reliable SUV options that could reach 500,000 miles with proper care.

So, with new SUVs hitting the market at an increasing rate, it’s worth looking back at some special models that have already proven to be reliability gods for one reason or another. According to an iSeeCars study conducted in 2021, an average of only 1.2% of cars sold in the used market have over 200,000 miles clocked on the odometer.

We’ve compiled a list of reliable cars that put that number to shame, and if given good care, they can stack up miles without showing any signs of slowing down. Here are 13 of the most reliable SUVs you can buy.

We used owners' experience through J.D. Power's consumer rating, along with data from CarEdge, RepairPal, iSeeCars, and NHTSA.

16 2017 Toyota 4Runner

Reliability Score: 87/100

The 4Runner is renowned for its rugged design, off-road prowess, and unbeatable reliability. Launched in 1983, the legendary SUV model has been available in the U.S. ever since, and it remains one of the longest-lasting SUVs around. Over time, the 4Runner has evolved from a classic to a modern SUV.

2017 4Runner Reliability

The 2017 model features a highly dependable 4.0-liter V6 with an output of 270 hp. With a JD Power reliability rating of 87/100, the Toyota 4Runner can achieve between 200,000 and 300,000 miles with no major repairs, and out of all units sold in 2021, just under 5% had already clocked over 200,000 miles according to iSeeCars.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $514 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,825 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 5
• Worst 4Runner Years To Buy Used: 2003 - 2005 Toyota 4Runner (gasket failure, rust issues)

15 2016 Ford Expedition

Reliability Score: 79/100

Succeeding the Ford Bronco, the Expedition is a full-size SUV that has been in production since 1997. Basically America’s 4Runner, the Ford Expedition is one of the most durable full-sized SUVs you can buy used, especially late third-gen models.

2016 Expedition Reliability

About 4.5% of Expeditions resold in 2021 came with more than 200,000 miles on the odometer, and it also shouldn’t come as a surprise that the 2016 Ford Expedition has a J.D. Power reliability rating of 79/100, when you remember it’s based on the best-selling Ford F-150. The model features a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with an output of 365 hp.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $618 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $9,443 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2
• Worst Ford Expedition To Buy Used: 2006 Ford Expedition (engine shutdown on the open road, ignition coil failures)

14 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe

Reliability Score: 80/100

Versatile, practical, and highly capable, the Tahoe is an ideal American SUV. A full-size SUV from Chevrolet, the Tahoe is also relatively affordable, and it has constantly featured as one of the best-selling full-size SUVs in the U.S. That said, there are several things you need to know before buying a used Chevrolet Tahoe, including the highly dependable 2017 model.

2017 Tahoe Reliability

With an 80-point reliability rating and considered one of the best SUVs for the 2017 model year, the full-sized Chevy Tahoe SUV isn’t just great to drive, it’s also pretty much indestructible. 4.5% of resold Tahoes had already set more than 200,000 miles in 2021, easily earning it a spot on this list.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $607 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $9,302 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 3
• Worst Tahoe Years To Buy Used: 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe (16 recalls, the highest for the model)

13 2011 GMC Yukon

Reliability Score: 86/100

A badge-engineered counterpart of the equally amazing Chevrolet Tahoe, the GMC Yukon is also a full-size SUV, and it has been in production since 1991. Available in multiple trim levels, the Yukon is comfortable on the road and has specialized trims for off-road adventures.

2011 Yukon Reliability

Boasting a standard V8 and an enormous stature, the 2011 GMC Yukon delivers durability just as much as it does luxury. Because of its hefty amount of tech and interior amenities, it might deliver slight cabin issues throughout ownership, but its powertrain and drivetrain are good for the long run, with 5.2% of resold units making it past 200,000 miles. Also, owners scored the 2011 Yukon 86/100 for reliability on the J.D. Power.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $679 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,300 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 6
• Worst Yukon Year To Buy Used: 2015 GMC Yukon (taillight malfunction, A/C malfunctioning)

12 2018 Lexus GX

Reliability Score: 91/100

As the Toyota 4Runner’s luxurious brother, it makes sense that the Lexus GX also ranks as a durable driving partner. With a loaded cabin and decent capabilities both on the road and off, the Lexus GX is a perfect used SUV to consider for the long run.

2018 GX Reliability

The 2018 Lexus GX is powered by a bulletproof 4.6-liter V8 with an output of 300 hp and 329 lb-ft of torque. It has a JD Power reliability rating of 91/100, comfortably trumping most models on this list. However, if you prefer new vehicles, we also have reasons why the 2024 Lexus GX is worth the wait.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $770 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,652 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2
• Worst Lexus GX Year To Buy Used: 2014-2015 Lexus GX (wow-pressure fuel pump faults, electrical gremlins)

11 2019 Kia Sportage

Reliability Score: 88/100

Positioned between Seltos and Sorento in Kia's current lineup, the Sportage is the brand's best-selling model, and it has been produced through five generations.

2019 Sportage Reliability

As a newer model, it’s hard to gauge just how many miles the average 2019 Kia Sportage can clock up without failure, but it definitely looks promising and owners have huge trust for the model. Fours years after the production of the 2019 model, it has a reliability rating of 88/100 on J.D. Power, providing immense value considering the 2019 Sportage’s relatively low used price compared to other models on this list.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $462 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,873 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2
• Worst Kia Sportage Year To Buy Used: 2012 Kia Sportage (engine suddenly stops working on the road, excessive noise)

10 2018 Chevrolet Suburban

Reliability Score: 81/100

Surely the longest-produced model on this list, the Suburban has been in production since 1935, and it is currently in its twelfth production generation, making "Suburban" the longest-used automotive nameplate in the world. While Suburban isn't without some glaring problems, the model has however held it own as one of the longest-lasting models around.

2018 Suburban Reliability

Despite being five years old, the 2018 Chevy Suburban features a 5.3-liter V8 engine as standard and a 6.2-liter rowdy V8 on higher trims in what makes for a seemingly everlasting drivetrain. iSeeCars found that 6.6% of resold Suburbans had already surpassed 200,000 miles – that’s over 5 times more than an average car. The 2018 model has a reliability score of 81/100 on J.D. Power.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $690 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $9,306 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 3
• Worst Chevrolet Suburban Year To Buy Used: 2001 Chevrolet Suburban (transmission and fuel pump problems)

9 2020 Toyota Sequoia

Reliability Score: 84/100

Despite recently being completely updated for the 2023 model year in what makes for a promising new model, the second-generation Toyota Sequoia, being the preceding generation, has some truly reliable used SUV models – especially models built between 2015 and 2020. If you found the mileage statistics of the other cars on this list surprising, prepare to be utterly blown away. Of all used Sequoias sold in 2021, a whopping 14.2% of them had more than 200,000 miles already clocked.

2020 Sequoia Reliability

Notably, the 2020 Sequoia came fitted with in indestructible 5.7-liter V8 that churns out a potent 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. On the J.D. Power, the 2020 Sequoia has a reliability score of 84/100.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $642 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $6,202 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2
• Worst Toyota Sequoia Year To Buy Used: 2001- 2004 Toyota Sequoia (engine, transmission, brake, and electrical problems)

8 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

Reliability Score: 83/100

Topping off the list among the most reliable SUVs we found is, you guessed it, another Toyota. This time, it's the esteemed Land Cruiser. With the 2021 model being one of the most reliable of the model’s entire run, which no longer continues in America, iSeeCars found a clear winner in the Land Cruiser. 18.2% of all resold units had more than 200,000 miles on them, making it by far the average most-driven car you’ll see on the road.

2021 Land Cruiser Reliability

Furthermore, the 2021 model got a reliability score of 83/100 on J.D. Power, thanks to its dependable powertrain that features a 5.7-liter V8 mated to an 8-speed automatic for an output of 381 horsepower.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $843 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $6,782 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• Worst Land Cruiser Year To Buy Used: 2001 Land Cruiser (powertrain, brakes)

7 2021 Jeep Wrangler

Reliability Score: 83/100

The Wrangler needs no introduction, as it has almost single-handedly kept Jeep relevant since its debut in the '80s. The Wrangler has a huge cult following worldwide thanks to its iconic design which has received minimal alterations over the years, practicality, affordability, and its reputation for being one of the best off-road SUVs in the world.

2021 Wrangler Reliability

The Wrangler has had its fair share of reliability problems over the years, but Jeep seems to have fixed most of them in the current generation. For example, the 2021 Wrangler had a J.D. Power reliability score of 83, making it one of the most reliable Jeeps.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $694 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $10,397 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 1
• Worst Jeep Wrangler Year To Buy Used: 2012 Jeep Wrangler (Electrical Problems, Engine problems)

6 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

Reliability Score: 86/100

The new Hyundai Santa Fe has been making the headlines since its unveiling a few weeks ago. The new Santa Fe is wildly different from the old models in terms of styling and size, and many gearheads can't wait to get their hands on it when it hits dealership floors in 2024. However, before the new Santa Fe arrives, some older models are worth looking into, especially if you are after reliability.

2019 Santa Fe Reliability

The Santa Fe is not only one of the most affordable SUVs to buy, but it's also a breeze to maintain. The 2019 Santa Fe costs just $515 in annual repair and maintenance costs according to RepairPal, which is lower than the average for mid-size SUVs.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $515 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,056 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2
• Worst Hyundai Santa Fe Year To Buy Used: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (Engine problems, interior accessories problems, steering problems)

5 2007 Toyota Highlander

Reliability Score: 88/100

Toyota left many gearheads gutted when it announced that the ever-dependable Land Cruiser was no longer going to be sold in the US. Thankfully, there are still several awesome Toyota three-row SUVs available in the US, one of which is the Highlander.

2007 Toyota Highlander Reliability

The Highlander debuted at the turn of the century and is now in its fourth generation. While more recent generations still have that Toyota reliability, we have a soft spot for older ones. For example, the 2007 Highlander had a reliability score of 88/100 on J.D. Power.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $384 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,771 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 4
• Worst Toyota Highlander Year To Buy Used: 2003 Toyota Highlander (Engine problems)

4 2018 BMW X5

Reliability Score: 84/100

The X5 is undoubtedly one of the most important cars in BMW's history. The X5 was BMW's first-ever SUV, and it was such a hit that the marque now has almost 10 SUV models in its lineup. The X5 offers a fantastic blend of looks, luxury, and performance, which is why many adore it.

2018 X5 Reliability

Luxury SUVs have a reputation for being unreliable, especially when they are BMWs. Not all of them, though. The 2019 X5 had a J.D. Power reliability score of 84, making it one of the most reliable luxury vehicles.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,166 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $18,389 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 4
• Worst BMW X5 Year To Buy Used: 2009 BMW X5 (Engine problems, lights problems)

3 2015 Lexus RX

Reliability Score: 90/100

The RX has been a key part of the Lexus lineup for more than two decades now. Introduced in 1997, the RX is considered to be the world's first luxury crossover SUV and is now in its fifth generation.

2015 Lexus RX Reliability

The RX offers a compelling package for anyone looking for a luxury SUV they can drive daily. It's stylish, has an upscale interior, several powerful engines on offer, and since it's a Toyota, it has bulletproof reliability. The 2015 model shows this perfectly with a J.D. Power reliability rating of 90/100.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $633 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,398 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 1
• Worst Lexus RX Year To Buy Used: 2008 Lexus RX (Engine problems, interior accessories problems)

2 2018 Chevrolet Equinox

Reliability Score: 90/100

The Equinox is a crossover SUV that Chevy has been producing since 2004. The Equinox is one of those SUVs that you can easily ignore on the road - it has a plain-looking design (some call it ugly) and doesn't offer much in the performance department. However, that hasn't stopped the Equinox from being one of the best-selling Chevrolet models since its introduction with over 3 million examples sold.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Reliability

One key reason why Chevy sells so many is that the Equinox has always been reliable. For instance, the 2018 Equinox had a J.D. Power reliability rating of 90/100.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $613 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $8,616 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 5
• Worst Chevrolet Equinox Year To Buy Used: 2013 Chevrolet Equinox (Engine problems)

1 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Reliability Score: 80/100

Just like the aforementioned ICE-only Highlander, the Highlander Hybrid is a reliable family SUV that can give you quality service for years. Toyota made safety, reliability, and fuel efficiency the core ingredients of the Highlander Hybrid. Built as a family SUV, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid was the first ever seven-seat hybrid vehicle, and it features the brand's Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system among others.

2019 Highlander Hybrid Reliability

Now, this is an SUV that likes to be driven nonstop, and as the only hybrid on this list, it’s also one of the most fuel-efficient. Generally, the 2019 Highlander got an 80/100 reliability score on J.D. Power, and besides that, the Hybrid trim adds great efficiency, delivering up to 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. More importantly, an iSeeCars’ study found that 3.9% of all resold Toyota Highlander Hybrids had more than 200,000 miles clocked on the odometer.

• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $198 (KBB)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,963 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• Worst Highlander Hybrid Years To Buy Used: 2008 Highlander Hybrid (melting window switches, seat heater catching fire, accelerator malfunctioning)