12 Cars More Reliable Than A Toyota Rav4

The Toyota RAV4 is the third top-selling vehicle of 2025, with a remarkable 479,288 units sold across the United States, according to Kelley Blue Book (KBB). This extremely popular model was only beaten out by the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado — two of the most in-demand trucks on the market. Last year, the RAV4 beat out its already impressive sales from 2024, which topped 475,193, per Good Car Bad Car's automotive sales data. 2026 sales are off to a strong start with 22,078 units moved within the month of January alone, indicating yet another exceptional year of sales.

These exceptional sales numbers are backed up by a robust track record of reliability. Consumer Reports, a non-profit consumer advocacy organization, has consistently ranked this model above the fray in its reliability rankings. In fact, nine out of the 10 previous years saw the RAV4 be awarded with far above-average results. The latest year assessed received a near-perfect score, as only the in-car electronics were determined to fall near the midrange of similar models. Even the model's price tag is reasonable, with the 2026 Toyota RAV4 selling for between $31,900 and $43,300. For context, the average new model is worth about $49,191, according to KBB.

Despite these exceptional reliability results and decent price point, the RAV4 isn't for everyone. Fortunately, Consumer Reports has done the difficult work of finding cars more reliable than the RAV4.

The 2026 Honda Passport is among the highest-rated vehicles by Consumer Reports in terms of reliability. The consumer watchdog highlights the SUV's functional controls, responsive braking system, and powerful V6 engine. Although the Passport is criticized for its unresponsive handling and finicky transmission, it lands a stellar dependability rating. This extraordinary reliability comes at a loftier price tag, with the 2026 Honda Passport hovering between $44,950 and $53,850.

The Passport's last production year to be tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) was included in the group's exclusive Top Safety Pick+ category, signifying exceptional safety features and crashworthiness. The SUV was awarded the highest results possible across all collision tests, as well as for front crash prevention for vehicles and pedestrians. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) doesn't report any recalls for this vehicle.

If you own a Honda Passport, you'll also save on maintenance costs. CarEdge estimates that the average owner spends around $7,823 to keep the SUV up and running. Notably, this is $343 less than for similar models, saving drivers some repair bills. The Passport also benefits from a 21.74% likelihood of sustaining a considerable issue within the first 10 years, better than peer models by 2.85%.

The 4Runner is among the Toyota cars with the best resale value, and its competitive reliability is a crucial variable in fending off depreciation. Consumer Reports has judged this popular SUV to exhibit dependability above the market midpoint for nine out of the past 10 years tested. There wasn't a single subcategory assessed by the group that didn't receive above-average results, underscoring the thoroughness of the design and build quality. The price for a new 4Runner runs the gamut between $41,870 and $68,200.

The 4Runner's safety results received much more varied feedback from the IIHS. Only the side crash test received the highest marks, and the vehicle's headlights didn't stand out in any trim type. Yet, the 4Runner did land excellent scores for the front crash prevention, both for vehicles and pedestrians. The 2026 4Runner has had zero recalls, even when looking across all of its engine variations, per NHTSA data.

According to CarEdge, your maintenance budget is reduced by $1,844 across the first 10 years of owning a 4Runner when measured against the costs for similar models. Overall, that comes out to $6,322 worth of upkeep over a decade. Furthermore, there's a 7.98% lower chance of needing a major fix within the same time. The 4Runner's odds are only at 16.61%, which is comparatively low.

The 2026 Porsche Macan is the most expensive option on this list of cars, more reliable than the Toyota RAV4. To drive this luxury SUV off the lot, you'll need to spend anywhere from $65,400 all the way up to $112,700. The sheer cost alone may be a solid reason to think twice before buying a brand-new car. This costly price is backed up by an above-average reliability score when stacked up against other luxury models, such as the Lexus NX or the Infiniti QX50. Consumer Reports has assessed the Macan to have stronger dependability than its average peers for the past several years in a row, signaling that Porsche has hit a stride with this model.

The IIHS hand-selects which vehicles to assess, preferring to focus on more standard models that the general public would find practical. Thus, the 2026 Macan doesn't have any crash test results from this agency. However, the NHTSA indicates that no recalls have been made for the Macan, nor for any of its electric versions, suggesting the model is designed well. Similarly, CarEdge doesn't publish maintenance cost data for the Macan, but Edmunds places the five-year cost at about $11,327 between maintenance and repairs. For comparison, that's $22,654 over the course of a decade, which is dramatically higher than for other vehicles on this list.

According to Consumer Reports, the Mazda CX-5 has been on a tear when it comes to its reliability ranking, reaching above-average results for the past few years in a row. The 2025 model only saw results closer to the midrange for its in-car electronics; everything else was comfortably above the scores of similar models. This sporty SUV goes for about $29,050 to $41,080.

IIHS gave the 2025 CX-5 a perfect score for its crashworthiness across all three crash simulations, highlighting its safety features. Some trim types have headlights that reach top-tier results, too, while other trims fall below this standard. The SUV's headlights were also found to be of exceptional quality and performance. The NHTSA reports zero recalls for the CX-5, although its CX-50 counterpart has three separate recalls, making it crucial to distinguish between these models.

The average owner of the CX-5 will see maintenance costs of about $7,906 within the first 10 years of ownership, per CarEdge data. If that seems reasonable, that's because it falls $260 under the average for similar vehicles. Overall, this SUV faces a 22.65% chance of demanding a serious fix in the same time period, 1.94% lower than for its peers.

The 2026 Lexus IS is another luxury vehicle that's more reliable than the Toyota RAV4. Although some people associate opulent vehicles with less dependability, Lexus is ranked among the most reliable luxury car brands. While not as high as the Porsche Macan, the Lexus IS still outperforms its peers in reliability. A price tag between $45,500 and $49,950 also makes it a relatively affordable luxury model.

Since Lexus hasn't meaningfully changed the structure or design of the IS, the nameplate hasn't received a crash test for a few years. However, the results are still relevant given the sedan's consistent design. IIHS gave the IS the highest result for its small-overlap front test and its headlights, at least in some trim varieties. Fortunately, the NHTSA hasn't reported any recalls for the 2026 version.

Within the first 10 years of driving the Lexus IS, you would spend only about $5,782 for upkeep, according to CarEdge. That's a hefty $3,908 under the average for comparable models, saving drivers a considerable amount on maintenance. Furthermore, the IS is much less likely to encounter significant damage over this initial decade. The odds are 13.03% lower than for its peers.

The 2026 Tesla Model Y is proof that a fully electric vehicle (EV) can be even more dependable than a popular gas-powered model. To be sure, it's not the only EV more reliable than the Toyota RAV4, but it is the highest ranking in this critical position. Consumer Reports ranks the latest Tesla Y above similar models in reliability. The sale price of this in-demand EV is $39,990 to $59,990. Older models with similar dependability can be found for much less, pricing that cheap Tesla cars have hit the market.

The Tesla Model Y is yet another model to achieve the IIHS's most coveted status as a Top Safety Pick+. The EV performed exceedingly well on all crash tests and received top-tier reviews on its front crash prevention for pedestrians and other vehicles. Its headlights were also acknowledged for their performance. Regrettably, the 2026 Tesla Model Y has been subject to six different recalls already, according to the NHTSA.

Perhaps the most notable advantage of owning a Tesla Model Y is drastically lower maintenance costs. CarEdge projects that the average owner experiences a maintenance bill of $3,978 over the course of a decade, which is a staggering $8,475 lower than its peers. Additionally, the Model Y only sees an 18.79% chance of needing a considerable fix within those 10 years, and that's 19.72% lower than for similar models.

The 2026 Nissan Altima is another vehicle deemed more reliable than the Toyota Tacoma, with a dependability score reaching far beyond the average. In fact, the Altima outranks some of the most recognizable nameplates, including the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and the Subaru Legacy. Four out of the past five years have resulted in above-average reliability scores, according to Consumer Reports. A reasonable price range of $27,580 to $30,480 makes this model even more appealing.

The IIHS report on the Nissan Altima is extremely mixed. It received the highest results on the small-overlap front test, yet the lowest on the side test, and the second-lowest on the moderate-overlap front test. Its seatbelt reminders received positive marks, but its front crash prevention for both pedestrians and vehicles failed to reach the top scores. Yet, the NHTSA doesn't report any recalls for the 2026 Nissan Altima, either for its front-wheel or all-wheel drive model.

The first 10 years of driving the Nissan Altima result in $6,013 worth of maintenance. According to CarEdge, that's a solid $267 less than for comparable models. That might not represent the largest savings, but it can help minimize one of the monthly expenses you're forgetting to put in your budget. The odds that the Altima demands a major fix within the initial decade are about 16.97%, right in line with similar models.

Subarus have developed a long-standing reputation as extremely capable vehicles that drivers can rely on for decades and across hundreds of thousands of miles. This track record is mirrored by a respectable reliability reputation from Consumer Reports. In the last tested year, the Impreza received an unblemished dependability report, with all subcategories receiving marks far exceeding the average for similar models. The Impreza is sold for between $26,595 and $29,495, which is significantly less than the average new model. Extending those savings, this Subaru model is one of the cheapest new cars to insure.

Per IIHS reports, the Impreza has terrific crashworthiness, performing well on the small-overlap front and side tests, although it saw subpar results on the moderate-overlap front test. The Impreza's front crash prevention for pedestrians claimed high marks as well, along with its seat belt reminders and headlights. The 2026 Subaru Impreza isn't subject to any recalls, according to the NHTSA.

Despite its reasonable sales price and high-caliber dependability, the Subaru Impreza is more costly to maintain than its peers. You would spend about $598 for upkeep across the first 10 years of ownership compared to similar models, for a total bill of $6,344. The Impreza is also 1.62% more likely to experience damage requiring a considerable fix, with those odds reaching 18.31%, according to CarEdge.

The 2026 Toyota Impreza outperforms well-known models in the reliability score, including the Subaru Crosstrek and the Ford Bronco Sport. This isn't too surprising when you realize Consumer Reports ranks Subaru as the top brand for predicted reliability. The past few years have seen the Impreza consistently rank above its peers for dependability. With a market price of $25,035 to $33,430, this popular Subaru model is also reasonably priced.

The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross is among the world-class vehicles included as an IIHS Top Safety Pick. This SUV achieved ideal results in the small-overlap and side crash tests. It saw the second-highest marks in the moderate-overlap front test and for its headlights performance. Its seatbelts also received the highest score. The standard 2026 Corolla Cross doesn't have any recalls, according to the NHTSA. However, its hybrid version is subject to a single recall.

Although the Corolla Cross's price point offers drivers some savings, the real affordability is found in its long-term maintenance costs. Across the first 10 years of driving this model, you'll save a generous $2,335, because it's that much cheaper to maintain than similar models. Overall, you'll only see about $5,831 go to repairs and maintenance. Beyond that, the Corolla Cross has a 7.98% lower chance of demanding a considerable fix than its peers. The model's overall odds are only 16.61% in the first decade, per CarEdge data.

The 2026 Toyota Crown is a newer nameplate that graced the market a few years ago, and the model has remained above its peers when assessed for reliability. In the latest examination, Consumer Reports rated each subcategory of dependability, including powertrain, suspension, brakes, and in-car electronics, with top-level marks. Over the past three years, built-in electronics was the only subfield to receive subpar results, and that was only in a single year. This first-class reliability comes with an above-average price tag, with the 2026 Toyota Crown fetching anywhere between $41,440 and $54,990

This highly recommended sedan received premier results in its small-overlap and side collision simulations for a quality crashworthiness assessment. Some of its trims also have superb headlights. The vehicle received commendable results for its front crash prevention and its seatbelt reminders, according to the IIHS. Some of the Crown's built-in safety features could actually be one of the car insurance discounts you might qualify for. Currently, the 2026 Toyota Crown has seen a single recall, per the NHTSA.

The Crown can save owners $851 on upkeep expenses over a decade of ownership. In total, you should budget about $4,895 to keep the vehicle running smoothly, according to CarEdge. This also comes with 4.41% lower odds of needing a serious fix in the same timeframe. Overall, these chances are 12.28% for the Toyota Crown.

There are some world-class vehicles that are both best-selling and extremely reliable, and the Subaru Crosstrek is one of those specimens. In 2025, this model sold a whopping 191,724 units. Since 2019, this Subaru nameplate has yielded first-rate reliability scores, standing out above its peers. The last few consecutive years saw impressive Consumer Reports reliability results without a single subcategory falling below the average for similar models. The consumer advocacy group highlights the Crosstrek's quick stopping, comfortable driving, and all-wheel drive design as serious advantages. However, it's acknowledged that the performance is a bit underpowered. This SUV sells for about $26,995 to $34,995, well below the average for new cars in 2026.

According to the IIHS, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek boasts superb crash test results and safety assessment. It performed very well on the small-overlap and side crash test, but fell behind on the moderate-overlap collision simulation. Its front crash prevention for both pedestrians and vehicles also received top-level results. On top of that, the Crosstrek's headlights and seat belt reminders got premium scores. The NHTSA doesn't report any recalls for the standard 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, nor for its Wilderness trim. However, the hybrid version does have a single recall.

CarEdge puts the decade-long maintenance costs of the Subaru Crosstrek at $8,460. For perspective, that's about $294 less than for similar models, saving owners moderately on upkeep. It's estimated that this SUV faces about a 24.76% likelihood of needing a significant repair in the same timeframe, which is aligned with the average of comparable vehicles.

Perhaps one of the more unexpected vehicles that's more reliable than the Toyota RAV4 is its plug-in hybrid counterpart. The Consumer Reports assessments were neck-and-neck, but the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid model outperformed its gasoline-powered cousin. It also outranked the popular Hyundai Tucson. Notably, the plug-in hybrid version is fresh on the scene, only launching in 2025. This first year of production still attracted above-average scores in every subfield related to dependability, with the sole exception of in-car electronics. The plug-in model also sees a reasonable price range between $44,815 and $48,685.

The IIHS gave the 2025 Toyota RAV-4 Plug-In Hybrid excellent crashworthiness scores on its front overlap and side collision test. The headlights and front crash prevention for vehicles and pedestrians also received positive marks. Unfortunately, the plug-in variety has been the subject of two recalls, per the NHTSA. CarEdge doesn't distinguish between the fossil-fuel-powered and plug-in versions of the RAV4, but Edmunds outlines the maintenance costs. Over a five-year timeframe, drivers can expect to pay about $6,457 in upkeep, which adds up to $12,914 over a decade for comparison. These costs accelerate considerably over the years, peaking around years four and five.