12 Reliable Cars That Are Cheaper Than A Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 was the best-selling SUV of 2025, according to Kelley Blue Book, selling around 479,288 units. When stacked up against all vehicle classes, this popular SUV was also the third highest-selling model overall. Although the RAV4 has witnessed record-breaking demand over the past few years, this popular nameplate has consistently sold over a quarter-million units annually since 2014, according to GoodCarBadCar, thanks in large part to its historic reliability.

To get an accurate perspective on real-world performance, Money Digest combined the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability ranking with the value score Edmunds assigns to many models assessed on its website. The former looks at authentic reviews from actual owners over a three-year period, while the latter is based on extensive testing by experts. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 earned an impressive 87 on the J.D. Power ranking scale and a score of 80 on Edmunds for a combined reliability evaluation of 83.5.

Despite its above-average dependability and stellar sales, some critics say the Toyota RAV4 isn't the smart buy it used to be, primarily due the fact that its Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is outpacing the features it has to offer. Luckily, there are plenty of reliable cars cheaper than a Toyota RAV4. To help drivers find the most dependable vehicle within their budget, Money Digest compiled a list of more affordable options that rival or even beat the RAV4's reliability. We've also included long-term maintenance costs to paint a more accurate picture of the true cost to own each of these models.

The Toyota Avalon was discontinued in 2022, but this most recent model year is a decent option for those looking for the reliability of a Toyota without the RAV4's starting price tag, which J.D. Power reports is $23,597. The Avalon has a fair market value of about $23,243, per J.D. Power, which is about 1.5% lower than its SUV counterpart. The website also gives the sedan a 91 Quality and Reliability rating, while Edmunds gives its value an 80, resulting in a hybrid reliability score of 85.5. Owners appreciate this sedan's smooth ride, spacious cabin, and solid combined fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon. One of the largest vehicles in the sedan class in 2022, it's worth noting that the Toyota Avalon is one of the Toyota cars with awful resale value. This is good news for drivers buying used, but not for owners hoping to resell for an optimal price.

CarEdge doesn't publish data for the Avalon's prolonged upkeep costs, but it does report that Toyota nameplates generally come with a 10-year maintenance cost of $5,470. That's lower than the norm by a whopping $2,786. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also lists the 2022 Toyota Avalon as a Top Safety Pick — the second highest classification available — and gives the sedan top results on all of its crash test simulations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) doesn't report any recalls for the 2022 Avalon.

The Toyota Tacoma stands in stark contrast to the Avalon as one of the Toyota cars with the best resale value. If you're looking for something with comparable versatility to the RAV4 at a lower premium, the 2021 Tacoma is an excellent option. The average price paid for this release is $20,964, as reported by J.D. Power, which is already 11.2% lower than that of the RAV4. The Tacoma features robust off-road capabilities, intuitive controls, a powerful engine, and an ergonomic truck bed. However, the slightly elevated ride height may be uncomfortable for drivers with limited mobility. The 2021 Tacoma earned an 87 on the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability score and a 75 on the Edmunds value rating. Thus, it earned a hybrid dependability ranking of 81.

Long-term Tacoma owners spend an average of $6,931 on general repairs over the first 10 years. Notably, this is $2,694 cheaper than the standard for pickups, according to CarEdge. The IIHS gave the 2021 Tacoma a decent crash test report, with all simulations earning the highest rating except for the small overlap test — which examines how vehicles handle collisions on their front corners — and side tests. This truck's front crash prevention system for vehicles also received high praise, and this model year has never been recalled.

The 2022 Toyota Camry received an 87 from J.D. Power and a 75 from Edmunds, earning a combined reliability score of 81. With a fair market value of $20,361, according to J.D. Power, this release falls 13.7% lower in upfront costs than the RAV4. The 2022 Camry is jam-packed with standard technological and safety features, including excellent visibility thanks to its well-balanced window placement and seat height. And while Consumer Reports says the 2026 Camry has some of the best real-world gas mileage, the 2022 model year boasts solid fuel economy as well.

Some drivers complain it gets noisy on the highway and when you push the engine. Still, if you drive the Camry for a decade, CarEdge's projected repair bill of around $4,581 — $1,165 lower than the class average — could be worth that potential drawback. The 2022 Camry is recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, which is the highest accolade offered by the agency. This sedan's crashworthiness is also superior: With the exception of the side test, which simulates a T-bone collision from an SUV, the 2022 Camry received top marks across the board. According to the NHTSA, the 2022 Toyota Camry is subject to a single recall for each of its front and all-wheel drive versions for an issue with its airbag sensors.

The Ford Mavericks is already one of the best trucks under $25,000, and it also goes toe-to-toe with the RAV4 in terms of value. While newer models may struggle to fall below this price range, J.D. Power indicates that the 2022 model starts around $19,488, making it 17.5% more affordable than the RAV4. The Maverick's reliability doesn't disappoint, either, with a J.D. Power score of 81 and an exceptional Edmunds rating of 80. The combined dependability score of 80.5 is enough to turn heads, but there are plenty of features to celebrate about this Ford pickup. Its 37-mile-per-gallon combined fuel economy is far ahead of most trucks, offering drivers a break on energy costs. However, this efficiency doesn't sacrifice any engine power, with the Maverick able to tow and carry a decent amount of weight.

The Ford Maverick comes with a 10-year maintenance cost of $10,735, which CarEdge reports to be  $1,110 more than the long-term upkeep expenses of similar pickups. The 2022 model also earned mixed results on its IIHS report. Its moderate overlap front test, which measures the impact of an off-center collision between two cars driving in opposite directions, was judged to be subpar. However, its side test landed the highest score possible. What some may find more concerning, though, is that the NHTSA reports that 2022 Mavericks have been recalled 27 separate times as of April 2026.

The Toyota Corolla Hatchback is a sporty spin on the popular Corolla sedan. J.D. Power estimates that the 2021 model comes with a fair market value of $16,886, making it 28.4% more affordable than the RAV4. Furthermore, it enjoys a hybrid reliability score of 81.5, receiving a competitive 88 on the J.D. Power ranking and a 75 from Edmunds. Drivers of the Corolla Hatchback appreciate the vehicle's high visibility, responsive handling, smooth driving experience, and useful suite of features. Due to its hatchback design, this nameplate lacks a little bit of head space, legroom, and cargo capacity compared to standard sedans, but its 31-mile-per-gallon combined fuel economy may appeal to long-distance drivers.

In addition to a lower price tag, the Corolla Hatchback is one of the cars with lower repair costs than the Toyota RAV4. The Corolla Hatchback beats out the class average by $676 in terms of upkeep expenses, with CarEdge projecting a decade's worth of maintenance to cost $4,199. The IIHS included the 2021 Corolla Hatchback in its highly competitive Top Safety Pick category, indicating strong crashworthiness and safety standards. This hatchback scored perfect ratings on all crash tests, except for the side crash, for which it received the second highest score available. Fortunately, no major recalls have been necessary for the Corolla Hatchback, indicating a well-thought-out design.

The Honda Civic is a best-selling vehicle that's also extremely reliable. The 2021 version hits the perfect balance between dependability and affordability, with strong on-the-road performance and a manageable price tag. J.D. Power reports that this release sells for about $16,778, undercutting the RAV4's cost by 28.9%. The 2021 Civic landed an 86 on the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability assessment and a value score of 85 from Edmunds, combining for a total reliability ranking of 85.5. The sedan is highlighted for its cost-saving combined fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon, smooth driving experience, impressive tech features, and comfortable cabin. The front collision warning system can be sensitive, and the blind-spot camera has a learning curve, but some drivers may still appreciate that these features are available at all.

CarEdge projects the long-term upkeep costs of the Honda Civic to be around $5,634. These 10-year maintenance and repair expenses fall just below the average for similar vehicles by $112. The 2021 Honda Civic is another member of the IIHS' Top Safety Pick grouping, and not a single one of its crash tests received less than the top score. The sedan's front crash prevention systems for both vehicles and pedestrians also performed exceptionally well. According to the NHTSA, the 2021 Civic is subject to three independent recalls due to unintentional airbag deployment, malfunctioning brakes, and fuel pump failure.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla obtained an 87 from J.D. Power's Quality and Reliability index and a 75 for Edmunds' value metric for a composite dependability rating of 81. As a highlight, Consumer Reports indicates that this reliable car has one of the best depreciation rates on the market. Even with an above-average residual value, J.D. Power indicates that the 2022 Corolla still sells for about $14,933, saving owners 36.7% compared to the Toyota RAV4. This in-demand nameplate offers drivers a wallet-padding fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon, in addition to a suite of impressive safety features. Drivers also benefit from intuitive controls and a straightforward design overall. However, if you're looking for a super sporty sedan, you may find the limited acceleration and noisy driving experience slightly disappointing.

According to CarEdge, owners should expect to spend around $4,434 on general upkeep. Fortunately, this figure undercuts the norm for comparable models by $1,312. The 2022 Toyota Corolla was handpicked to be a member of the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ category. This sedan exhibited first-rate crashworthiness results, receiving top scores across the board. Its side test did earn the second-highest rating, but remained above average nonetheless.

Consumer Reports cautions that the 2025 Kia Soul is one of the worst deals that you can buy right now, but that warning doesn't extend to older models. The 2021 release features a strong J.D. Power rating of 88 and a mighty Edmunds score of 80, landing a hefty reliability score of 84. The 2021 Kia Soul's fair market value of $13,769, per J.D. Power, falls below the RAV4's price tag by a staggering 41.6%. The iconic boxy design makes the Soul more spacious than many compact SUVs, and some drivers love the unique look. The smaller frame also makes for more responsive handling and zippy turns. However, the engine is powerful for the vehicle's size, which can make for an awkward driving experience.

The Kia Soul experiences a 10-year maintenance burden of $7,396, per CarEdge, which falls right in line with the average for its class. The 2021 release of this compact SUV also has an unblemished crashworthiness record, earning it an IIHS Top Safety Pick classification. Furthermore, its front crash prevention systems received top-tier results. However, its headlights range in quality dramatically based on the trim type. The NHTSA indicates that the 2021 Kia Soul has been subject to two separate recalls resulting from engine damage and overheating piston oil rings, both of which can increase the risk of fire.

The Nissan Kicks stands among several cars more reliable than the Honda CR-V, but this compact SUV also outranks the RAV4 in both dependability and affordability, earning a combined score of 84. This capable nameplate earned an 88 on J.D. Power's Quality and Reliability score and a value score of 80 from Edmunds. Additionally, the 2022 Kicks' fair market value of $12,697, as reported by J.D. Power, is a stunning 46.2% cheaper than the RAV4. This release year sports a fuel-saving 33 miles per gallon combined fuel economy, as well as a suite of intuitive tech features. The acceleration isn't anything to brag about, but the driving experience is responsive, predictable, and consistent. However, it's not an ideal vehicle for large groups, as it gives up some legroom in the rear seat.

The Nissan Kicks comes with a decade-long upkeep expense of $7,791. Per CarEdge, this figure stands below that of similar SUVs by $375. The 2022 Nissan Kicks didn't receive as extensive a safety examination from IIHS as other vehicles on this list, but still received top-level scores on every crash test it did undergo. Furthermore, it boasts a slew of standard safety features, such as blind spot detection, rear automatic braking, and a lane departure alert system.

The Kia Sportage is a less conspicuous, slightly larger alternative to the Soul. With an exceptional J.D. Power score of 89 and a respectable Edmunds score of 75, the 2020 Sportage earns a competitive hybrid reliability score of 82. This model usually sells for around $12,610, according to J.D. Power, putting it 46.6% below the cost of a RAV4. When it comes to fuel economy, the Sportage cedes ground to models at a similar price point at 26 miles per gallon for combined driving. But this SUV makes up for what it lacks in efficiency with a comfortable interior, quiet driving experience, ergonomic controls, and spacious seating. The underpowered engine leaves some owners wanting, but the combination of superior dependability, capable performance, and an accessible price earns it a place among the top-selling cars perfect for retirees.

Despite its low upfront cost, the Kia Sportage comes with an elevated long-term maintenance bill. CarEdge estimates that the average owner pays $8,453 over a decade of upkeep — $287 more than for comparable SUVs. The 2020 Kia Sportage is yet another example of an IIHS Top Safety Pick, and other than the side crash test, this compact SUV earned the top scores across crash simulations and received positive feedback for its crash prevention systems. Per the NHTSA, the 2020 Kia Sportage has been the focus of two investigations and two recalls, mainly due to several faulty components that increased the risk of a fire.

J.D. Power gave the 2022 Hyundai Sonata an 83, and Edmunds graced this model with an 85, resulting in a composite reliability ranking of 84. What's even more impressive than this vehicle's solid dependability is its extremely affordable starting price of $12,455, as reported by J.D. Power. For reference, that would save the average driver 47.2% compared with the RAV4. A newer Sonata model is one of the hybrid cars with the best gas mileage, but the 2020 model still provides some bang for your buck in that regard with its 32-mile-per-gallon combined fuel economy. On top of that, drivers appreciate the large trunk and spacious interior. This sedan's forward-thinking, sleek exterior gives the car an aesthetic edge over its competitors, and despite being released in 2020, it also offers some impressively advanced technology like a remote parking assistance system.

CarEdge estimates that the average driver of the Sonata pays $6,444 to keep this sedan up and running smoothly throughout the first decade of ownership. These maintenance bills are $698 cheaper than the norm for comparable vehicles. The IIHS included the 2020 Hyundai Sonata in its Top Safety Pick group for far-above-average crashworthiness results and safety standards, with the side crash test standing out as the only simulation for which the Sonata didn't earn the highest rating. The 2020 Hyundai Sonata has been the center of four different recalls, according to the NHTSA, the most recent of which was due to the potential that its fuel tank could leak.

The 2020 Kia Forte finishes off the list of reliable cars that are cheaper than a Toyota RAV4. This extremely affordable sedan has a starting fair market value of $10,573, per J.D. Power, which is a full 55.2% lower than what drivers would pay for a RAV4. J.D. Power gave this sedan an 85, and Edmunds judged it worthy of a 90. With a resulting composite reliability score of 87.5, the Forte offers arguably the best balance of value and reliability on this list. The 2020 Kia Forte extends these savings with a respectable fuel efficiency of 31 miles per gallon. Owners love this model's straightforward driveability, slew of safety features, and zippy engine. Its acceleration won't blow your hair back, but it's more than sufficient for the daily driver.

Although the Forte beats out this entire list in its sales price, it comes with a 10-year maintenance cost $470 above the standard for comparable sedans. Overall, Forte owners should expect to spend $6,216 over the course of a decade on maintenance, according to CarEdge. Rounding out its accolades, the 2020 Forte is a Top Safety Pick from IIHS. While the side test is a weak point for this sedan, all other crash simulations earned top scores and its front crash prevention systems for vehicles and pedestrians were judged to be high quality.