It’s no secret that buying a used SUV is a smart move for your wallet. Pre-owned vehicles often come with significantly lower price tags, and you avoid the steep depreciation that hits new cars. Additionally, reusing a well-maintained vehicle reduces waste and conserves resources. But to get the most out of your investment, choosing a reliable SUV is key. In this blog, we’ll define what reliability means in a vehicle, break it down into essential components, and highlight the most reliable SUVs across small, midsize, large, and luxury categories. 

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What Does Reliability Mean in a Vehicle?

Reliability is a critical factor when selecting a vehicle, especially one that’s pre-owned. It’s not just about whether the car lasts a long time; it’s about how well it performs day-to-day without unexpected issues, how affordable it is to maintain, and how it holds up over time. Let’s break reliability into specific components to better understand what makes a vehicle dependable:

• Build Quality: The materials and assembly processes affect wear and tear. High-quality construction ensures fewer mechanical failures and a longer lifespan.

• Engine Performance: A reliable engine performs consistently and is resistant to common breakdowns, providing dependable power and efficiency.

• Maintenance Requirements: Vehicles with low maintenance needs and reasonable repair costs are inherently more reliable, saving you time and money.

• Technology Dependability: Onboard electronics, like infotainment and safety features, should stand the test of time without frequent glitches or failures.

• Resale Value: A high resale value often reflects a vehicle’s long-term reliability and desirability in the used car market.

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The Most Reliable Used SUVs by Category

When determining the most reliable used SUVs, it’s crucial to rely on objective, data-driven sources. To identify the top contenders, we reviewed the last five years of JD Power Dependability Awards (2019–2023). These awards are based on feedback from over 80,000 verified owners of 3-year-old vehicles, focusing on the type and number of problems reported during the preceding 12 months. Each vehicle’s scores include:

• Quality & Reliability Score: Measures long-term durability and dependability.
• Resale Value Score: Reflects how well the vehicle retains its value over time.
• Overall Score: Combines reliability, resale, and other factors into a comprehensive rating.

Below, you’ll find the winners in five SUV categories: Small, Compact, Midsize, Large, and Premium SUVs. Whether you’re after a compact city cruiser, a family-friendly midsize, a spacious large SUV, or a luxury model with all the bells and whistles, this list has you covered.

The Most Reliable Small SUVs

Small SUVs have been a competitive category, with the Kia Sportage consistently ranking as a dependable option thanks to its balanced reliability and strong resale value. The Toyota C-HR took the top spot in 2020 with an impressive 91/100 reliability score, while the Volkswagen Tiguan made an appearance in 2019 with a standout resale value. 

The Most Reliable Midsize SUVs

Midsize SUVs have been a diverse category, with different winners each year. The Chevrolet Blazer topped the charts in 2020 with its reliable performance and solid overall score of 85. Toyota, Kia, and Hyundai have also earned recognition, with the Toyota 4Runner standing out in 2017 for its high reliability score of 88/100. 

The Most Reliable Large SUVs

The Chevrolet Tahoe dominated the Large SUV category, securing awards in 2020, 2018, and 2017, with its reliability and resale value keeping it a favorite among families. The Ford Expedition made a notable appearance in 2016, with a respectable 85/100 resale value score. 

The Most Reliable Luxury SUVs

For the past five years, Lexus has held the crown for the Premium SUV category, with high reliability scores across the board. The 2020 Lexus RX and 2018 Lexus GX led the way, each scoring an impressive 91/100 for quality and reliability. However, Lexus models often exhibit lower resale value scores, which is common for luxury vehicles. 

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Find the Most Reliable Used SUVs at CLS

Choosing a reliable used SUV is about more than saving money; it’s about peace of mind and maximizing the lifespan of your investment. By focusing on vehicles with strong build quality, dependable engines, and low maintenance needs, you can enjoy years of worry-free driving. Whether you’re looking for a small, midsize, large, or luxury SUV, the models listed here are excellent options to consider. 

At CLS, we offer a wide selection of high-quality lease returns, making us an excellent destination for used car shoppers in Denver. Lease returns are often some of the best pre-owned vehicles on the market because they are typically well-maintained and come with lower mileage.  Many are still covered under the original factory warranty! These newer models offer advanced features, giving you the benefits of modern technology at a fraction of the cost of a new car. 

For expert guidance and personalized recommendations, consult one of our trusted Auto Brokers who can help match you with the perfect reliable SUV for your needs.