One of the biggest benefits of buying a new car is the warranty, but once that ends – you’re left to hope that you’ve chosen a reliable car.
Some drivers replace their car right after its warranty expires, but reliability is essential if you plan to keep your vehicle afterward. Fortunately, maintenance, warranty and history records help track which cars have had the fewest problems and are least likely to break down.
We have scoured the internet to research the reliability offered by various car models and come up with a list of the best models. Any of these cars is a good choice if you want something that lasts!
Some institutions collect information from insurance companies and garages to determine the frequency of breakdowns of various cars.
We analyzed data from Consumer Reports, What Car, Carbuyer and ADAC (among others) to learn about technical and electrical issues. We also looked for signs of damage in CarVertical’s history reports – if the car has been damaged in the past, suspension, body, and automatic transmission problems are more common.
As a result, we have chosen the 15 most reliable cars in 2023.
Note: While this is an effective way to compare the reliability of different models, road conditions, driving habits and past accidents also impact a vehicle’s longevity. So be sure to check the history of a car before buying it!
The 15 most reliable cars
Japanese manufacturers have dominated “most reliable cars” lists for years. Today, South Korean, American and even German manufacturers also offer reliable models that won’t break the bank after their warranty expires.
The T-Roc received a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars from What Car, which isn’t great. However, most problems are minor – related to electronics, the braking system, and trivial engine issues.
Users were excited about the T-Roc concept newly introduced by Volkswagen in 2014. Unlike most VW models, this concept was expressive, courageous and attracted those seeking style and sportiness. Although the official T-Roc abandoned many features of the concept, it was still very successful.
This model is still in production. It is equipped with reliable, fuel-efficient engines and transmissions. The Volkswagen T-Roc weighs a maximum of 1,555 kg and is also available with the 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
BMW i3
Production of the i3 began in 2013. It is an electric, high-roof hatchback supermini with an optional two-cylinder range extender engine. Since the model’s inception, BMW has made numerous improvements over the years of production to keep up with the competition.
While early i3 models suffered from reliability issues due to novel technical solutions, BMW has corrected most of these issues over the years, making the i3 one of the most reliable electric vehicles on the market. It comes with an additional range extender for those who don’t trust electricity alone. Ironically, the gasoline range extender is the most sensitive component in pre-2016 models, as some owners complain of performance issues and fuel vapor leaks.
If the car’s design and its base price of €39,950 suit you, the BMW i3 is a safe and efficient choice. BMW has taken its time to fine-tune this model to perfection, offering up to 322 kilometers of range (with the range extender included).
Mazda MX-5
Most new Mazda models have proven to be solid, without costly or irritating problems. The sporty MX-5 is no exception – reliability and owner satisfaction rates are high. While some owners complain about limited trunk space and headroom, or cabin noise when the roof is lowered, these issues do not affect reliability. That said, older models tend to leak water through the roof and their bodies are prone to corrosion.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a popular choice for those looking for fun at an affordable price. Consumer Reports says the new Miata is “much more reliable than the average new car,” giving it a predicted reliability rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
The 2022 Mazda MX-5 starts at €30,850 and is offered with 1.5L or 2.0L four-cylinder engines, developing up to 181 hp. Remember that the car only weighs about a ton before you judge its power.
Audi Q5
Audi suffered from various reliability issues with its cars in the 2000s and early 2010s, but the latest models are proving to last longer without additional expense. The Audi Q5 is often among the most reliable cars, mainly thanks to its refined TFSI and TDI engines.
However, as this is a luxury SUV, we couldn’t place it higher – average maintenance costs are higher than for economy models.
Unlike the old Q5, this new version comes with a more economical and less expensive front-wheel drive system, making the optional all-wheel drive Quattro system unnecessary. Paired with the 8-speed DSG or ZF 8HP automatic transmission, the new Audi Q5 is fast while being fuel-efficient.
Cadillac XT5
The appearance of the Cadillac XT5 luxury crossover among the most reliable cars is surprising. Some XT5 owners have reported minor electronic issues, but there have been no major problems. The latest model does not suffer from costly transmission and engine issues like the early models, and interior build quality has improved.
Cadillac has been producing this model since 2016, and sold more than 130,000 units in 2017 alone. The XT5 sports classic Cadillac-style vertical headlights and taillights, and there’s no shortage of luxury touches throughout the cabin. Many of these SUVs come from the United States, so if you’re buying in Europe, check the car’s history to make sure it hasn’t had any significant accidents.
Hyundai Kona
Hyundai knows how to make reliable vehicles and proves it by offering them a five-year warranty. According to a 2020 Car Buyer survey, only 4.5% of Kona owners reported defects, with most being minor issues. However, of all Hyundai Kona vehicles analyzed on carVertical’s databases, almost 45% have a history of damage, so used car buyers should be very careful.
Hyundai introduced the Kona in 2017 – a subcompact crossover available with engines starting from a 1.0l three-cylinder petrol version. You won’t feel many emotions once you get behind the wheel. The atmosphere in the cabin is depressing due to the dark, minimalist design, cheap materials, and the ride is neither sporty nor comfortable. This is probably the blandest car on this list.
However, the Kona has excellent safety equipment, like collision-avoidance assist, smart cruise control, blind-spot collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. On top of that, this isn’t the first time he’s been on this list.
BMW 2 Series
After years of major engine stalling problems, problematic transmissions and other costly problems, the new BMW 2 Series is free from these nightmares. The new BMW 2 Series also proves solid without any common problems. Featuring superb powertrains and luxurious equipment, the 2022 model can boast excellent results in reliability and ownership. The car is offered with the B48, B58 petrol and B47 diesel engines, all of which are huge improvements over their predecessors.
The 2 Series is a subcompact executive car only available as a two-door coupe. The old model was offered in many different body types, so the variety of this model may also expand soon.
When the new 2 Series Coupe was released in 2021, many fans criticized its odd design but were pleased with its handling. This is an opportunity to experience a real sports car without high maintenance costs.
Mazda CX-5
The new Mazda CX-5 received a reliability rating of 5 out of 5 stars and an owner satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5 from Consumer Reports. While older models were prone to minor issues with lights, brakes, engine and electrical issues, the new CX-5 suffers from no common issues or recalls.
Unfortunately, a large proportion of Mazda CX-5s have been in an accident at some point – 46.6% of cars analyzed by carVertical have been damaged in the past. Always check the car’s history before purchasing it to avoid safety issues and additional expenses.
The Mazda CX-5 surprises with its affordable price and superior quality. Thanks to a clever layout, metallic accents and stitched leather on the dashboard, center console and even door trims, the interior is comfortable and chic. The CX-5 has been one of the most reliable family SUVs on the market since its release in 2013.
Audi A1
Most common Audi car problems are related to electrical systems and transmissions. However, the A1 is the smallest member of the Audi family, with basic engines and features making it the most reliable new Audi yet. Carbuyer rated it 4.5 stars out of 5 for reliability and safety.