Most Reliable Cars: Dependable Compact, Midsize, and Full-Size Models
These cars and minivans outperform the rest in reliability.
One of the slicker tools to use when whittling down a newish used car purchase is J.D. Power’s annual Dependability Study. It looks at how three-year-old vehicles are faring through the prism of reported problems. Fewer problems mean a lower score in the study, which in turn means higher vehicle quality. This can be useful in informing a search for the most reliable cars.
As it did last year, Toyota again performs well in the reliability rankings. That said, cars of different sizes from a variety of automakers make the list.
2022 Hyundai Sonata: Most Reliable Cars
The Sonata midsize sedan benefits from standout exterior styling and a tech-rich cabin that includes large, crisp screens. Most trims deliver adequate acceleration and agile handling, though the car’s transmission and ride quality could be smoother. The N Line is a good time, but generally the Hyundai is chasing the Honda Accord in this segment.
- Approximate Price: From $14,500
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engines: 2.5-liter inline-4, 1.6-liter turbo inline-four, 2.0-liter inline-four and electric motor, 2.5-liter turbo inline-four
- Fuel Economy: 27/37 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Hyundai Sonata review here.
2022 Kia Forte: Most Reliable Cars
This predecessor to the K4 compact sedan comes with attractive exterior and interior design. Technology is another Forte strength, the 2022 model offering abundant driver assists and a newly available 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen (the standard interface is an 8.0-inch screen). Unexciting driving dynamics hold back the Kia, namely pokey acceleration, a harsh CVT, and stiff suspension. The GT model’s dual-clutch transmission and ride quality seem even less refined. Lackluster safety ratings might give some shoppers pause.
- Approximate Price: From $13,000
- Safety Rating: NHTSA four stars overall
- Engines: 2.0-liter inline-four, 1.6-liter turbo inline-four
- Fuel Economy: 31/41 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Kia Forte review here.
2022 Nissan Altima: Most Reliable Cars
One of the most reliable midsize cars in the J.D. Power dependability study, the 2022 Altima returns decent fuel economy, is offered with standard FWD or available AWD, and is relatively quick with either powertrain. On the more powerful turbo model, tuning of the CVT automatic could be smoother, though, and ride quality degrades with bigger wheels. Grip and braking performance are better with the less powerful variant, too.
The sedan’s pleasant but unsophisticated cabin doesn’t quite reflect the exterior’s sporty appearance. That said, we appreciate the car’s cushy seats, high infotainment screen placement, intuitive infotainment interface, and flat-bottom steering wheel. Some wind noise at speed permeates the cabin.
- Approximate Price: From $12,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engine: 2.5-liter inline-four, 2.0-liter turbo inline-four
- Fuel Economy: 28/39 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Nissan Altima review here.
2022 Subaru Impreza: Most Reliable Cars
Competing directly with the Corolla and Forte is the Subaru Impreza. Like the Toyota, it’s available as a sedan or hatchback, but unlike those other compact cars it comes with standard AWD. Power output is only adequate from the platform’s lone engine option, but fuel economy is strong. Ride and handling are balanced, and the base model is available with a five-speed manual transmission.
Like most Subarus, safety ratings are good for the 2022 Impreza. That said, the base model doesn’t feature any standard driver assists (though it can be optioned with them). Many tech features are also reserved for above the entry-level trim.
- Approximate Price: From $14,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick for hatchback, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engines: 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine
- Fuel Economy: 28/36 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Subaru Impreza review here.
2022 Toyota Avalon: Most Reliable Cars
The Avalon is only available on the used market, having been discontinued after the 2022 model year. This dependable car is refined and well rounded, offering plenty of output with either powertrain and great fuel economy with the hybrid setup. Its ride is plush on most trims except Touring, where it’s sporty. Many driver assists are standard, too. This final model year for the Avalon is offered only with FWD, though, after being available previously with AWD. The Avalon’s interior is spacious and well appointed, but some will need to make peace with the sedan’s massive front grille.
- Approximate Price: From $23,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engines: 3.5-liter V-6, 2.5-liter inline-four and two electric motors
- Fuel Economy: 22/31 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Toyota Avalon review here.
2022 Toyota Camry: Most Reliable Cars
One of the most reliable cars on the market, the 2022 Toyota Camry earns praise for an abundance of safety features and high safety ratings. Hybrid trims might be the best, not just for their efficiency but also smooth and quiet power delivery and top interior features. Vehicle performance and handling are letdowns, though, none more disappointing than the TRD model. The Accord is sportier, more comfortable, and more spacious, too.
- Approximate Price: From $15,500
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engines: 2.5-liter inline-4, 3.5-liter V-6, 2.5-liter inline-four and electric motor
- Fuel Economy: 28/39 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Toyota Camry review here.
2022 Toyota Corolla: Most Reliable Cars
Firm brakes, a good ride and handling balance, and solid fuel economy (especially for the hybrid model) are among the Corolla’s assets. The driving experience is spoiled by an underpowered base engine and vague-feeling clutch in models with the manual transmission. For plenty of cargo capacity, you can’t go wrong with the hatchback version, and every Corolla variant features Toyota reliability and value. Unfortunately, the Honda Civic is a better small car in almost every way.
- Approximate Price: From $13,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engines: 1.8-liter inline-four, 2.0-liter inline-four, 1.8-liter inline-four and electric motor
- Fuel Economy: 30/38 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Toyota Corolla review here.
2022 Toyota Sienna: Most Reliable Cars
The Sienna is the only 2022 minivan with a standard hybrid powertrain, so fuel economy is a strength. Although it’s the most reliable minivan, power delivery and ride quality are not as good as competitors. Interior space is generous, with room for available factory options like ottomans, a minifridge, and vacuum, but the second-row seats are not removable as they are in some rivals. The third-row windows are small, too. The off-roady Sienna Woodland Special Edition was new for 2022.
- Approximate Price: From $27,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Engines: 2.5-liter inline-four and two electric motors
- Fuel Economy: 36/36 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2022 Toyota Sienna review here.
Most Reliable Cars and Minivans
- Hyundai Sonata: Midsize Car
- Kia Forte: Compact Car
- Nissan Altima: Midsize Car
- Subaru Impreza: Compact Car
- Toyota Avalon: Full-Size Car
- Toyota Camry: Midsize Car
- Toyota Corolla: Compact Car
- Toyota Sienna: Minivan
Most Reliable Cars and Minivans From 2024
Among the most important factors to weigh when shopping for a new car is reliability. For such a significant purchase, most people want to know (as much as they can) they're getting their money's worth. That's why data like J.D. Power's Dependability Study—which looks at how 2021 model-year vehicles are faring—and IntelliChoice's best overall value analysis can be useful for choosing the right vehicle.
All the cars on this list are recognized in J.D. Power's 2024 study. Keep reading for more on the most reliable cars and minivans on the market.
2021 Chevrolet Malibu: Most Reliable Cars
We're fans of the 2021 Malibu's spacious cabin, user-friendly infotainment interface, and comfortable ride. The base powertrain also gets commendable fuel economy, but the trade-off is a lack of grunt. Luckily, there's a bigger, more powerful engine available. Lower trims miss out on driver assist technology, and the cabin regardless of model is not premium. This reliable car comes in L, LS, RS, LT, and Premier trim levels, with top trims getting the lowest value rating from IntelliChoice due to higher maintenance costs.
- Approximate Price: From $13,000
- Safety Rating: NHTSA four-star overall rating
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
- Fuel Economy: 29/36 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Chevrolet Malibu review here.
2021 Honda Civic: Most Reliable Cars
This generation of the Civic is like the current gen, highly lauded for its good driving dynamics, smart interior, and strong feature-per-dollar value. In addition to being one of the most reliable cars, it's also safe and efficient. Not everyone will be a fan of the car's exterior styling, though. Every 2021 trim receives a Good IntelliChoice value rating except Sport models, which have higher fuel and maintenance costs.
- Approximate Price: From $16,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
- Fuel Economy: 30/38 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Honda Civic review here.
2021 Honda Odyssey: Most Reliable Cars
Starting with the 2021 model, every Odyssey features standard Honda Sensing, which means lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert are included. Power delivery is effortless, and smart features like an integrated vacuum, Cabin Watch camera system, and Cabin Talk intercom feel perfect for families. The Odyssey is only available in gas FWD configuration, though, and we wish there were a way to stow the second-row seats. Elite, EX, and Touring models get the highest IntelliChoice value ratings.
- Approximate Price: From $25,500
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V-6
- Fuel Economy: 19/28 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Honda Odyssey review here.
2021 Hyundai Sonata: Most Reliable Cars
The Sonata is another midsize sedan with a roomy interior and plenty of technology. It, too, boasts an intuitive infotainment system. Both turbo powertrains feel strong, but the hybrid models get the highest IntelliChoice value ratings because of low fuel costs. The car's stable handling is a strength, though ride quality could use improvement.
- Approximate Price: From $14,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four, 2.0-liter inline-four and electric motor, 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four
- Fuel Economy: 27/37 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Hyundai Sonata review here.
2021 Kia Sedona: Most Reliable Cars
The predecessor to the Kia Carnival is a reliable minivan. It delivers great body control, a smart infotainment system, and available luxurious amenities such as second-row seats with fold-out footrests. But the Sedona doesn't provide as much space in the third row or behind it as some of its rivals, nor is it as efficient.
The 2021 is the Kia minivan's final model year and comes in LX, EX, and SX trims. None fared well in IntelliChoice value ratings, but the LX base model did have lower insurance and maintenance costs. The Sedona is the highest-ranked minivan in J.D. Power's 2024 dependability study.
- Approximate Price: From $23,500
- Safety Rating: NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engine: 3.3-liter naturally aspirated V-6
- Fuel Economy: 18/24 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Kia Sedona review here.
2021 Toyota Camry: Most Reliable Cars
The 2021 Camry is something of a safe bet, both literally and in other ways. It gets high marks in safety testing and is available with two powertrains that return great fuel economy (though if a little more power is what you want, it's got a V-6 for that). Unfortunately, it has to compete against the Honda Accord, which is a better car in almost every way. Camry Hybrid models receive the best IntelliChoice value ratings due to their low fuel costs, and the LE FWD sedan also rates well thanks to low insurance costs.
- Approximate Price: From $16,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V-6, 2.5-liter inline-four and electric motor
- Fuel Economy: 28/39 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Toyota Camry review here.
2021 Toyota Corolla: Most Reliable Cars
For 2021, the Corolla L base sedan was finally offered with optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a blind-spot monitor with a rear cross-traffic alert, features that are standard higher up the trim walk. We like the hatchback for its practicality, and this version brings welcome style. Handling on SE and XSE trims is also playful. Negatives includes a base engine that can get loud and is underpowered, along with unimpressive interior material quality. Most trims receive either a Good or Excellent value rating from IntelliChoice, with the exception being SE models with the manual transmission.
- Approximate Price: From $14,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four and electric motor
- Fuel Economy: 30/38 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Toyota Corolla review here.
2021 Toyota Prius: Most Reliable Cars
The Prius put hybrids on the map, and as with all versions, this one returns fantastic fuel economy. We also like its available e-AWD. It doesn't come without trade-offs, though. The gas-electric's wedge-shaped exterior is more for function than form, and every Prius before the current variant (including this one) is slow. Its infotainment operating system is also sluggish. Every trim is an Excellent IntelliChoice value except the Prime LE and Limited plug-in hybrid models.
- Approximate Price: From $19,500
- Safety Rating: NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four and electric motor(s)
- Fuel Economy: 54/50 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Toyota Prius review here.
2021 Toyota Sienna: Most Reliable Cars
This is the first model year of the redesigned, all-hybrid Sienna. Available in FWD and AWD configurations, it comes in LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels.
The fourth-generation Sienna is an improved minivan compared to the previous model. It boasts a more thoughtfully packaged cabin that can feel premium on the lineup's top trims. We appreciate the hybrid powertrain's great fuel economy, too, but like the Prius used to be, it feels like Toyota sacrificed some ride quality refinement for ultimate efficiency. The XSE AWD and FWD versions of the LE and Limited get the highest IntelliChoice value rating among 2021 Siennas.
- Approximate Price: From $30,000
- Safety Rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five-star overall rating
- Engines: 2.5-liter inline-four and two electric motors
- Fuel Economy: 36/36 mpg city/highway
Read our experts' full 2021 Toyota Sienna review here.
Most Reliable Cars and Minivans From 2024
- Chevrolet Malibu: Midsize Car
- Honda Civic: Compact Car
- Honda Odyssey: Minivan
- Hyundai Sonata: Midsize Car
- Kia Sedona: Minivan
- Toyota Camry: Midsize Car
- Toyota Corolla: Compact Car
- Toyota Prius: Compact Car
- Toyota Sienna: Minivan
My dad was a do-it-yourselfer, which is where my interest in cars began. To save money, he used to service his own vehicles, and I often got sent to the garage to hold a flashlight or fetch a tool for him while he was on his back under a car. Those formative experiences activated and fostered a curiosity in Japanese automobiles because that’s all my Mexican immigrant folks owned then. For as far back as I can remember, my family always had Hondas and Toyotas. There was a Mazda and a Subaru in there, too, a Datsun as well. My dad loved their fuel efficiency and build quality, so that’s how he spent and still chooses to spend his vehicle budget. Then, like a lot of young men in Southern California, fast modified cars entered the picture in my late teens and early 20s. Back then my best bud and I occasionally got into inadvisable high-speed shenanigans in his Honda. Coincidentally, that same dear friend got me my first job in publishing, where I wrote and copy edited for action sports lifestyle magazines. It was my first “real job” post college, and it gave me the experience to move just a couple years later to Auto Sound & Security magazine, my first gig in the car enthusiast space. From there, I was extremely fortunate to land staff positions at some highly regarded tuner media brands: Honda Tuning, UrbanRacer.com, and Super Street. I see myself as a Honda guy, and that’s mostly what I’ve owned, though not that many—I’ve had one each Civic, Accord, and, currently, an Acura RSX Type S. I also had a fourth-gen Toyota pickup when I met my wife, with its bulletproof single-cam 22R inline-four, way before the brand started calling its trucks Tacoma and Tundra. I’m seriously in lust with the motorsport of drifting, partly because it reminds me of my boarding and BMX days, partly because it’s uncorked vehicle performance, and partly because it has Japanese roots. I’ve never been much of a car modifier, but my DC5 is lowered, has a few bolt-ons, and the ECU is re-flashed. I love being behind the wheel of most vehicles, whether that’s road tripping or circuit flogging, although a lifetime exposed to traffic in the greater L.A. area has dulled that passion some. And unlike my dear ol’ dad, I am not a DIYer, because frankly I break everything I touch.
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