10 Vehicles More Reliable Than A Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma was the 10th-best-selling vehicle in 2025, with 274,638 units sold in the United States, according to Kelley Blue Book (KBB). Impressively, those sales numbers represent a more than 42% surge over the prior year. In 2024, demand for the Tacoma reached 192,813 units, per CarFigures. In the first month of 2026, Toyota's most popular truck was bought 21,466 times, underscoring the rising demand across the country. Notably, the Tacoma underwent a major revamp in 2024, equipped with improved fuel efficiency, faster velocity, and more responsive brakes.

Altogether, the Tacoma is an extremely capable truck celebrated for its enduring dependability. In fact, Consumer Reports — a nonprofit consumer watchdog — rates Toyota's leading truck with a reliability score far above the rest of the field. This high-ranking remains on par for the Toyota brand, which is ranked the highest among automakers for reliability. The latest nameplate outperformed other popular trucks, such as the Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, Ford Ranger, and Chevy Colorado, in this crucial category. Looking back over the years, the Tacoma has consistently beaten out its peers in dependability, with consistently strong performance across subcategories ranging from powertrain and steering to climate system and built-in electronics.

Despite these accolades, the newest Tacoma's profile isn't perfect. Consumer Reports bluntly describes the handling as clumsy and the ride as stiff, pointing to an uncomfortable driving experience. Some other highlighted weak points include a noisy engine and awkwardly high profile. These negatives, combined with a high cost of up to $64,450, turn many people away from the Toyota Tacoma. Although many trucks fail to reach this model's respectable dependability, there are several viable alternatives. Let's look at 10 vehicles more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma to consider.

The 2026 Honda Passport isn't only considered among the more dependable models in its class, but nearly tops all vehicles rated by Consumer Reports with a near-perfect score. The 2026 model represents the pinnacle of this model's dependability, receiving mixed reviews over the past several years since it was first tested back in 2019. The latest model received positive feedback on its engine performance and electrical systems. More specifically, the consumer advocacy group underlined the responsive braking system and powerful V6 engine as strengths. However, the transmission and handling were identified as potential problem areas. Usually, the 2026 Honda Passport goes for somewhere between $44,950 and $53,850, making it slightly more affordable than the Tacoma.

In line with its exceptional reliability score, the 2026 Honda Passport boasts an excellent safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The model was even included in the group's Top Safety Pick+, which is the most prestigious category, signaling extraordinary safety features and crashworthiness. The Passport secured perfect scores on all crash test simulations, as well as for crash prevention for vehicles and pedestrians. Its seatbelt reminders and headlights also received pristine results. As you might be able to conclude from this model's standout performance in both dependability and safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) doesn't report any recalls.

CarEdge indicates that owners of the Passport can budget about $343 less for maintenance than the average SUV over the course of 10 years. This timeframe usually sees upkeep hovering around $7,823. The Passport also only carries a 21.74% risk of requiring a significant repair within this period, which is 2.85% less than its peers.

Consumer Reports graced the 2026 Toyota 4Runner with a reliability assessment far above the norm for similar models, as well as exceeding the entire landscape of vehicles for the year. The group pinpointed the 4Runner's off-road performance and ergonomic controls as positives, but cautioned about its bumpy ride, rough transmission, and awkward handling. Still, the 4Runner's reliability has been a mainstay, with the model receiving far above-average remarks in nine out of the past 10 years. In the latest model tested, not a single category fell under the midrange, pointing to an exceedingly consistent dependability. The price point between $41,870 and $68,200 places it closer to the 2026 Tacoma, but the 4Runner is a clear winner in terms of reliability. Unsurprisingly, it's also one of the Toyota cars with the best resale value.

The IIHS' safety results for the 4Runner are all over the place. It scored well on the side crash test, but fell short on the moderate-overlap front simulation. Its headlights can sink to the lowest performance level, depending on the trim type. However, the model did land top-tier marks on the pedestrian and vehicle front crash prevention tests. Its seatbelt reminders also fared well in the tests. The NHTSA reports zero recalls for the 2026 4Runner for rear-wheel, all-wheel, and four-wheel drive models. Although the 4Runner's price tag may be up there with the Tacoma's, drivers of the former can save considerably on 10-year maintenance costs. CarEdge estimates upkeep expenses across this period run about $6,322, which is a whopping $1,844 below the standard for competing models. On top of that, the 4Runner has 7.98% less of a chance of demanding a serious repair in its first decade of driving than similar models.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 may look like an average SUV, but it's much more dependable than its peers. Consumer Reports indicates that the latest model to be tested is well-ahead of the competition when it comes to reliability. The CX-5 far outranks the norm in every subcategory, with the sole exception of in-car electronics, where it fell in line with the average. Over the past few years, the Mazda CX-5 has maintained dependability results safely above the standard. Some of the nameplate's highlights include comfortable handling, responsive steering, and smooth driving. On the flip side, the SUV's fuel efficiency and limited visibility receive negative feedback. If you're driving this model off the lot, it will set you back a modest $29,050 or up to $41,080. For those looking at used models, it's actually one of the best cars for retirees under $30,000.

The Mazda CX-5 received superior feedback for its crashworthiness tests by the IIHS, scoring the highest in all crash simulations. The model's headlights landed in the two highest categories, depending on trim type. Its seatbelt reminders also received positive results. Yet, the front crash prevention for other vehicles landed at the bottom of the rating scale. The NHTSA doesn't report any recalls for the 2025 Mazda CX-5, which speaks louder than for 2026 models, since more time has passed since release. It's worth noting that the CX-50 nameplate has three recalls, so you don't want to mix those up. CarEdge calculates the average decade-long upkeep costs for the Mazda CX-5 to be $7,906, which is about $260 better than similar SUVs. Beyond that, owners also benefit from a 1.94% lower chance of the CX-5 requiring considerable repairs compared to its peers.

The 2026 Porsche Macan is the most expensive of the vehicles, more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma, with a price tag ranging from $65,400 to $112,700. However, the Macan delivers on dependability with a rating far outpacing its peers, per Consumer Reports. The consumer advocacy group sees the SUV's sporty driving experience as a major highlight, although it admits the controls are challenging to understand at first. The latest production year tested received exceptional marks across all reliability subcategories for the first time in the model's history. Unfortunately, the IIHS hasn't tested the Macan because only a certain number of cars get tested, and more luxurious brands tend to get left out due to low demand.

According to the NHTSA, the 2026 Macan doesn't have any recalls, nor do any of its many iterations, such as the electric or turbo electric versions. Regrettably, Porsche is not among the most reliable luxury car brands, according to Consumer Reports. Thus, drivers should expect to spend more on upkeep than they might with other standard models. CarEdge doesn't publish maintenance expenses for the Macan as it does with other vehicles, but CarBuzz places the annual maintenance costs at $1,265. Over 10 years, that would represent $12,650, dramatically more expensive than other models on this list of vehicles more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma. When you add those exorbitant maintenance costs on top of the Macan's already high sales price, this model is perhaps most fitting for a true luxury enthusiast.

The 2026 Subaru Impreza has earned a spot on the list of cars more reliable than the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota Tacoma, making it a popular pick for dependability. Consumer Reports has consistently placed this model above average in this critical category. In fact, the past three years have been an impressive display of reliability, with the Impreza beating out the competition in most subfields. The latest report yielded extraordinary marks across the board, with the all-wheel system, smooth handling, and excellent fuel efficiency highlights as advantages. Really, the only downside Consumer Reports mentions is the model's lackluster acceleration. A modest price range between $26,595 and $29,495 makes the Impreza one of the more affordable options while boasting a fantastic reliability score.

IIHS' safety results shine positively on the 2026 Subaru Impreza, with two out of three crash simulations resulting in top-level marks. The model's front crash prevention system for pedestrians was also rated highly, along with the standard headlights. Furthermore, drivers benefit from superior seatbelt reminders. The NHTSA reports zero recalls for the 2026 Impreza. If you're a budget-conscious driver looking for a deal, don't pull the trigger immediately after seeing the Impreza's reasonable price. This model is estimated to cost $598 more than similar vehicles to maintain over a 10-year period. Across this timeframe, CarEdge recommends drivers budget about $6,344 on upkeep. Furthermore, the Impreza faces a 1.62% higher chance of necessitating a considerable repair. However, it's also one of the cheapest new cars to insure, so you should take all these expenses into account.

If the Corolla Cross doesn't ring a bell, you're not alone. This nameplate is one of the newest models to come out of the Toyota brand, initially produced in 2022. Despite this relatively recent release, the Corolla Cross has a track record of dependability. Consumer Reports has ranked this nameplate above-average in reliability for the majority of the past few years. The 2026 release outperforms popular models in this category, such as the Subaru Crosstrek and the Ford Bronco Sport. Some of the highlights of this Toyota SUV include impressive fuel efficiency, cabin spaciousness, and braking performance. However, it's received negative feedback on its cabin quietness and its lackluster power and agility. The 2026 Corolla Cross is also one of the most reliable vehicles compared to the popular Honda CR-V. This vehicle is offered at a starting price of $25,035 but can reach up to $33,430.

The IIHS elevated the Toyota Corolla Cross to its coveted Top Safety Pick ranking. The SUV landed the highest scores on the small-overlap and side collision simulations. The headlights received the second-best marks, but the model's seatbelt reminders and front crash pedestrian prevention were judged to be top-tier. The NHTSA indicates that no recall has been made for the 2026 Corolla Cross. The same cannot be said for the hybrid version, which has a single recall. CarEdge positions the 10-year upkeep costs of the Corolla Cross to be $5,831, which is a staggering $2,335 lower than for competing models. That's significant savings, especially considering the model's already moderate price point. In addition, this SUV sees 7.98% lower odds of demanding a significant repair in the first 10 years of ownership.

Subaru is often cited among consumers' favorite car brands, known for its loyal driver base. However, the automaker doesn't only attract a dedicated group of customers. It backs up the popularity with inarguable results. Consumer Reports judges the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek to be among the most reliable SUVs available. Since 2016, seven out of the 10 years of reliability scores have landed above the midrange, beating out the competition for the past seven years straight. The latest results saw exceptional results across every subcategory, and the same is true for the two prior years. The moderate price points of $26,995 and $34,995 proves that world-class reliability can be obtained without breaking the bank. Some of the upsides of the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek include its responsive braking system, smooth ride, and premier fuel efficiency, although it's been described as underpowered.

The latest release of the Subaru Crosstrek enjoys a stellar safety report card from the IIHS. It passed the small-overlap and side collision simulations with flying colors, and also achieved perfect results on the front crash prevention for pedestrians and other vehicles. The seatbelt reminders and headlights also received extremely positive results. According to the NHTSA, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek doesn't have any recalls, and neither does its Wilderness trim variation. However, the hybrid version of the model is subject to a single recall. In contrast to the model's celebrated reliability, the Subaru Crosstrek incurs higher upkeep expenses than similar SUVs. Over the course of 10 years, CarEdge estimates that owners spend about $8,460 to keep the vehicle running smoothly. That's about $294 more than competing models. Yet, the Crosstrek doesn't see a meaningfully higher likelihood of needing a considerable repair.

The Toyota Crown Signia is a new model from the reputable automaker, only gracing the U.S. market in 2025. While other models take years to optimize their dependability, this nameplate made a splash from the outset. In the latest year of testing, the Crown Signia achieved a reliability score that puts similar models to shame. Not a single subcategory fell below the midrange, pointing to a consistent design. Consumer Reports points to the Crown Signia's engine efficiency and fuel economy as major strengths, although the consumer watchdog warns about the awkward controls and engine noise. The new Toyota Crown Signia clocks in at a reasonable $44,490 and can reach up to $48,890, far below the new Toyota Tacoma while providing improved dependability.

The 2026 Toyota Crown Signia achieved admirable safety results from the IIHS, scoring the highest results on the small-overlap front and side crash tests. It received the same stellar marks for its front crash prevention for both pedestrians and other cars. Furthermore, its headlights were deemed to be top-tier. In line with this model's first-rate reliability rating and safety features, the NHTSA hasn't reported any recalls. According to CarEdge, owners of the Crown Signia save a budget-saving $1,957 in upkeep costs compared to similar models over the course of a decade. Overall, drivers should budget about $6,209 over this timeframe for maintenance. Beyond more affordable upkeep, the Crown Signia also comes with a lower chance of needing a considerable repair than its peers by about 7.98%.

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 outranked the Toyota Tacoma for reliability in its standard gas-powered, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid forms. Consumer Reports ranked each iteration above the average competing model. Over the past 10 years of production, both the conventional and hybrid models received dependability scores above the standard for every single year. The plug-in hybrid model is relatively new but still boasts impressive reliability results, with positive remarks across subcategories. The RAV4 with a fossil-fuel engine is celebrated for its excellent fuel economy, but its hybrid and plug-in hybrid cousins take this efficiency to another level. Both the standard and hybrid models sell for between $29,800 and $41,155, but the plug-in hybrid model stretches between $44,815 and $48,685.

The IIHS awarded the 2025 RAV4 with top-tier results for its small-overlap front test and whiplash prevention, yet lower scores on the other simulations. Unfortunately, the 2025 RAV4 is riddled with recalls across its various versions. The front-wheel and all-wheel drive modes each have two separate recalls, per NHTSA data. The plug-in hybrid also suffers from two independent recalls, although the hybrid version only has one. While this vehicle is subject to many recalls, it experiences a relatively affordable upkeep budget. CarEdge predicts the average owner spends $6,005 within the first decade of driving the RAV4. Yet, this is a remarkable $2,161 under the norm for similar models, saving drivers considerably.

The 2026 Nissan Kicks is another fresh model that's already making a name for itself in terms of world-class dependability. Consumer Reports determined this model to have superior reliability to its peers, even some that have been in production for much longer. Built-in electronics was the only subcategory where the Kicks didn't receive marks beyond the average, with every other category resulting in above-margin results. The Kicks is noted for its maneuvering simplicity, ergonomic controls, responsive braking, and smooth handling. Yet, some of its disadvantages include a noisy ride, limited acceleration, and uncomfortable driving. A relatively cost-effective price range of $22,430 to $28,160 makes the Nissan Kicks even more appealing. For perspective, that's less than half the price of the Toyota Tacoma, all while maintaining a reliability score above the popular truck.

The IIHS report on the 2026 Nissan Kicks' safety is reassuring, with the model receiving the highest points on all simulated crashes. Additionally, its pedestrian front crash prevention was premier, although its vehicle front crash prevention was judged to be subpar. It recovered with top marks for headlights and seatbelt reminders. According to the NHTSA, the 2026 Nissan Kicks is subject to two recalls, one for each of its front-wheel and all-wheel drive models. CarEdge puts the average repair costs for the Kicks at $7,791 for the initial decade of ownership, which is $375 under the norm for similar models. This vehicle also sees a 1.64% lower chance of needing a serious repair during the same time period.