7 SUVs That Are Almost Perfect, According to Consumer Reports

Описание: 🚗 Looking for the most reliable SUVs to buy in 2026?

With new vehicles becoming more complex, expensive, and harder to maintain, long-term reliability matters more than ever. In this Automotive Central breakdown, we analyze seven SUVs that are almost perfect — models that balance durability, low ownership costs, and real-world dependability instead of flashy features or marketing hype.
This isn’t about horsepower wars or luxury badges. It’s about peace of mind, resale value, and choosing an SUV that won’t drain your wallet five years down the line.
From proven Japanese engineering to carefully refined hybrids and underrated performers, this list highlights SUVs that consistently score well with Consumer Reports, RepairPal, J.D. Power, and long-term owner data. These vehicles are built to last — whether you’re commuting daily, hauling family, or planning to keep your SUV well past 150,000 miles.

You’ll see strong performers like the Toyota RAV4, a benchmark for compact SUV reliability, and the Honda CR-V, known for its smooth ride, low maintenance costs, and excellent ownership satisfaction. We also break down why luxury doesn’t have to mean unreliable, with standout models such as the Acura MDX and Lexus NX 350h, which deliver premium comfort without sacrificing long-term durability.

Family buyers aren’t left out either. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid proves that three-row SUVs don’t have to be reliability nightmares, while the Hyundai Santa Fe quietly earns its place as a smart long-term value backed by one of the strongest warranties in the industry.

At the top of this list is an SUV that surprises many buyers — a model that doesn’t always dominate sales charts, yet consistently outperforms expectations when it comes to reliability, ownership costs, and long-term satisfaction. It’s a reminder that the best SUV isn’t always the most obvious one on the lot.

Not every dependable SUV could make the list. Several highly respected models — including some well-known Subaru and Toyota options — narrowly missed out despite strong reputations. Subaru Forester, Lexus GX, and Honda Pilot are honorable mentions of highly reliable SUVs that missed out on our list due to other factors. That said, reliability is always evolving, and even great vehicles can differ depending on usage, maintenance, and ownership expectations.

We also cover the other side of the equation. In the bonus segment, we examine popular SUVs that sell well but raise serious red flags when it comes to reliability and long-term ownership. Some models may look appealing on paper, but recurring issues like electrical failures, transmission problems, and poor build quality can quickly turn ownership into a costly experience.
Despite strong sales, not all popular SUVs deliver the long-term reliability buyers expect. Some variants of the Jeep Wrangler are known for electrical issues, suspension problems, and the infamous “death wobble.” The Ford Escape, particularly earlier hybrid and EcoBoost models, has faced transmission and fuel-system concerns that increase ownership costs. The Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain have shown above-average rates of engine and timing-chain complaints in owner surveys, while the Volkswagen Tiguan and Taos have raised concerns over electronics faults, coolant leaks, and DSG transmission issues in older model years. These real-world reliability trends don’t mean these SUVs lack merit — many are enjoyable to drive and feature-rich — but they do underscore why careful research and ownership data are essential when choosing a vehicle you plan to keep for years.

If you’re planning to buy a new or used SUV in the United States in 2026, this video is designed to help you make a smarter, data-driven decision. Reliability isn’t about luck — it’s about understanding engineering choices, long-term patterns, and real ownership data.

💬 Which SUV on this list surprised you the most?
Would you choose long-term reliability over features or performance? 🤔

Share your thoughts and ownership experiences in the comments — your insight may help other buyers avoid expensive mistakes.
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