Looking for a good dependable car? Consumer Reports released its list of the most reliable cars in several vehicle categories for the year 2014 and selected the best from sub-compacts to utility pick-up trucks, and everything in between.
Some of the selections will be surprising because not all the expected contenders made the most reliable cars list, although they were close. So if you want a car you can depend on for a long time, you may want to consider some of these cars for your next purchase.
.Scion xBCompact/SubcompactThe irony of the Scion xB being chosen as the most reliable car in its category is due to the fact that its cousin, the Scion FR-S was named one of the least reliable cars in its category. But the Scion xB is no such animal and was acknowledge as the best dependable new car in its class.
Lexus CT 200hHybrids/Electric CarsThis winner was a big surprise because Toyota’s Prius, the leader in hybrid sales was expected to receive top honors. But the Prius and Toyota, for that matter, were experiencing quality control issues, and this put Toyota's hybrid entry out of the running. The Lexus CT 200h got high marks for its reliability and took the crown with a small lead over its competition.
Volkswagen Passat (1.8T)Midsized CarsMost bets were on Toyota’s Camry to take this award, but if not for the slight lead of the Volkswagen Passat over the favorite, it might have been a different story altogether. This dark horse winner received good marks for above average reliability from Consumer Reports.
Lexus IS350Luxury Compact CarsLuxury cars used to be known for being large, rolling behemoths on the road, but luxury compact cars make more sense in today’s crowded streets and limited parking. The Lexus IS350 won over Acura IXL for the title of most dependable in its category. The Lexus IS350 is on track for further improvements that should continue to distance itself from its competitors.
Mitsubishi Outlander SportSmall SUVsThis pint-sized SUV won over a field of very respectable models from Subaru, Mazda, and Audi. While not as well-known as its rivals, the title of most reliable small SUV is sure to propel this car into the public’s attention.
Toyota Highlander (V6)Midsized SUVsThe Toyota Highlander (V6) was part of a one-two punch for Toyota in the most reliable midsized SUV category with its 4Runner taking second place. The Highlander’s claim to fame is its ability to snag the first place honors in spite of only having data for its first year of operation. Other auto makers with first year models weren’t so fortunate and were plagued with problems.
Lexus RXLuxury/Large SUVsLexus scores another winner in the most reliable car list with its Lexus RX. And as a side note, Lexus seems to be making its mark on having a reputation for making dependable upscale cars as it was able to place five different models in their respective categories for reliability.
Toyota Tundra (V8 2WD)Pickup TrucksThis category of vehicle is the lifeblood for small businesses, construction work, and industry. Toyota’s Tundra won the honors as the most reliable pickup truck with the Toyota Tacoma also being recognized as a dependable pickup.
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