― Advertisement ―

A new sales king in town?

Does the freshly restyled 2024 Kia ​​Picanto have what it takes to dethrone the Fiat 500, the undisputed queen of urban sales? Our detailed...
HomeCarsMost reliable three-year-old cars and SUVs, according to new study

Most reliable three-year-old cars and SUVs, according to new study

A recent report highlights the most reliable used vehicles of 2021, revealing a marked dominance of Asian manufacturers at the expense of European brands.

Reliability, a key criterion for purchasing a used vehicle

Buying a used car often raises concerns about its reliability, especially when the vehicle is already a few years old. While attractive pricing and available equipment are important factors for buyers, the risk of costly breakdowns remains a major concern.

In this context, Consumer Reports has published a study detailing the most reliable three-year-old vehicles on the market. The 2021 models, significantly less expensive than current versions while integrating a large part of modern comfort and driver assistance equipment, represent an attractive option for many drivers.

The undisputed domination of Japanese brands

Toyota and Lexus confirm their reputation for reliability excellence by placing 16 models among the 36 most reliable vehicles of 2021. The Toyota Corolla particularly stands out as one of the vehicles offering the best value for money.

Other Japanese manufacturers such as Honda, Acura and Mazda are also doing well, seeking to compete with the giant Toyota. On the other hand, European brands are more discreet in this ranking, with only BMW and Volvo standing out.

The most reliable models by category

Consumer Reports' study segmented vehicles by size and price range, and found that Asian manufacturers consistently dominated the top spots in all categories.

Here's an overview of the most reliable models by segment:

Compact:1. Honda Civic2. Mazda 33. Toyota Corolla

Mid-size and large sedans:1. Hyundai Sonata2. Toyota Avalon3. Toyota Camry

Luxury vehicles:1. Acura TLX2. BMW 5 Series (first appearance of a European brand)3. Lexus ES

Premium sports cars: The Mazda MX-5 stands out thanks to its excellent value for money, combined with a 184 hp petrol engine.

Compact SUVs:1. Acura RDX2. BMW X33. Honda CR-V

Honda, Subaru and Lexus dominate this category with two models each in the top 10.

Mid-size SUV:1. GMC Acadia2. Honda Passport3. Honda Pilot

Toyota stands out in this segment with three models ranked, although the first place is occupied by the GMC Acadia.

Implications for used car buyers

This study offers valuable information for those considering the purchase of a three-year-old used vehicle. It highlights the exceptional reliability of Japanese brands, particularly Toyota, Honda and their respective luxury divisions, Lexus and Acura.

For European consumers, it is important to note that local brands are less well represented in this ranking. However, some models such as the BMW X3 and the 5 Series stand out for their reliability, offering interesting alternatives for those who prefer brands from the Old Continent.

The importance of reliability in choosing a vehicle

Vehicle reliability is a crucial factor, especially for used cars. It impacts not only long-term maintenance costs, but also safety and overall owner satisfaction.

The results of this study can serve as a valuable guide for potential buyers, allowing them to identify models that are less likely to have costly mechanical problems. However, it is always recommended to have any used vehicle inspected by a professional before purchase and to check its maintenance history.

Ultimately, while the dominance of Asian brands is clear in this ranking, choosing a vehicle remains a personal decision that must take into account many factors beyond just statistical reliability.

SRQ Backlot