What makes a car truly reliable?
When answering this question, it is essential that every aspect of the vehicle is taken into consideration from the engine and brakes to the electronics within the car itself.
A brand new car may have a cool electronic display, but the extra features could be a potential distraction if not designed correctly.
The most reliable car brands in the world spend millions every year doing extensive research to mitigate any issues they find in new models before their commercial release.
Find out which brands did the best job below.
The Most Reliable Car Brands
Combining the latest technology with sound engineering are crucial components to creating vehicles which can survive difficult weather, roads, and even drivers themselves.
When you think about everything a car goes through, it's incredible that so many are able to last for decades before needing to be replaced.
Investing in a good car always ensure you will not only be safer but also less likely to spend money on repairs in the future.
However, it's important to remember that while certain brands may top the list, it doesn't mean that every car they make is the most reliable. To help highlight why a brand is on the list, this article will also include a reliable model an example.
1. Lexus
This brand dominated the list from Consumer Reports this year edging out Toyota by two points and third place by a whole nine points.
It's worth knowing that Lexus is also made by Toyota so that really speaks volumes about the reliability and strength of the company.
Leading the charge this year was the Lexus GX which received numerous praise for its extensive features and engineering.
Highlights mention the exceptional off-road capabilities, secure handling, and comfortable driving experience. As an SUV, it boasts a fantastic interior that is spacious, well designed and makes long journeys a dream.
As the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, Lexus has proven that expensive cars can have their cake and eat it too.
2. Toyota
As mentioned above, Toyota continues to leave other cars manufacturers in the dust as they take one of the top spots again this year.
Models like the Toyota Prius feature hybrid engine systems which work with the kinetic forces generated from general driving to help power the car.
This means the mechanism to power up the battery is similar to that of a wind-up toy. When a driver pushes lightly on the breaks, the mechanism is used instead of the brakes which not only powers the battery but significantly prolongs the brakes lifespan.
Many Prius owners have used this knowledge to change their driving behaviours to use the actual brakes as little as possible. This not only leads to better longevity for their car but also safer driving habits too.
This coupled with the car's impressive safety features and handling capabilities, it's likely that Toyota will stay at the top for the next few years.
3. Mazda
Mazda has made impressive gains in recent years, improving their reliability and driving experience significantly.
A great example of this is the Mazda MX-5 Miata, a sports car that has received wide support from many drivers.
While not a practical family car, it is undeniably fun to drive with impressive handling across most road surfaces and great mileage for its type.
4. Subaru
Another Japanese company that has remained consistent in the past few years, Subaru scored highly in various surveys for 2018.
Many drivers reported enjoying the driving experience and reliability and this is mostly due to the focus on symmetrical design. Whereas most front wheel drives feature drive shafts that skew to one side, Subaru has designed theirs to be more central giving drivers better control and less torque steering.
One of their models, the Subaru Crosstek makes the most use of this feature with its all-terrain ability. This stability helps it retain control across uneven surfaces making it more reliable for drivers.
5. Kia
Kia has done well this year and has certainly earned its place on the list. Their latest models delivered a range of upgraded features designed to make every ride better for both rider and passenger.
Their Sedona minivan, for example, has been noted for its outstanding safety features and strong V6 engine. The larger frame has helped with making longer journey's more comfortable while also aiding the responsiveness of the handling.
6. Infiniti
As a branch of Nissan, this Japanese car has a wide range of features that make it highly reliable and fun to drive.
There has been contention regarding specific Infiniti models such as the Q50 which was deemed very unreliable. Since however, consumers have reported the Q70 as an extremely safe and high performing vehicle.
It's lower rankings in general reports are simply because people feel aesthetically it's not as new when compared to other brands.
7. Audi
Audi has had some troubles in the past but some of their 2018 models have done remarkably well.
For example, the Audi Q5 has made waves for its large cabin and a fantastic range of features. The reliability kicks in with the updated driver assistance technology and an ample number of safety additions that come as standard.
8. BMW
Robust, dramatic, BMW is a highly respected brand whose large range of models boast edges from multiple angles.
Models like the i3, for example, have exceptionally high safety ratings and its electric capabilities make it an efficient vehicle. Another feature of BMW's, in general, is their handling and ability to navigate tricky roads which is what makes them so reliable in the first place.
9. Mini
At the bottom of the list but still, a very respectable brand is Mini. The popular cars are quick, agile, and provide many city people a reliable and comfortable drive.
This year, the Mini Countryman tops the list for its swift acceleration and sizable cabin considering its car type.
It also has some of the leading safety ratings of its kind which helped solidify Mini on this list.
Look Beyond the Brand
Because new models are released every single year it can be hard to keep track of which are the most reliable car brands
This is especially true when considering that some brand's models outperform all other on reliability while some of their others are near the bottom of the list.
For these reasons, it is always essential that you do research into every model you are interested in to discover what other people have experienced.
No matter how reliable a car is, it is always essential to have the right car insurance to help you mitigate any issues. For more great advice take a look at our other blog categories.
