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30th Aug 2023

Top 5 Most Reliable SUVs



These cars were built to stand the test of time and extreme conditions. In addition to high ground clearance, excellent off-road capabilities, and decent roominess, a real off-road vehicle should withstand any test and keep starting, whether it be in extreme conditions or time. 

If you want to buy or lease an SUV, you should take into account the many features of these cars. This collection includes five car models that can be safely called reliable, durable, strong, and practical.  Here are five SUVs with minimal comfort and maximum reliability. 

1. Volvo XC90

The Swedish SUV is easy to recognize by its appearance: the attractive design of the first generation lasted quite a long time. The car was first introduced in 2002 and received an update only 13 years later. The most reliable version is the 2004 SUV. It was offered with two engine options, a base 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder and a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder. For more difficult operating conditions, the first option was offered with an all-wheel drive system.

Owners of the 2004 XC90 are happy with the SUV, with an average Edmunds Consumer Review rating of 4.5 out of 5.0 stars, backed by 389 reviews. Some reviews claim that drivers have already traveled more than 200 thousand miles and continue to drive. The owners say that they do not face severe problems, regularly service the car, and only occasionally change failed parts. However, in the 2.9-liter version, transmission failures are more common than others. The worst year to buy a used XC90 is 2016 due to seatbelt problems, coolant leaks, and underinflated airbags.

2. Nissan Patrol

Nissan Patrol belongs to the oldest family of SUVs. The model appeared on the Japanese market in 1951. The fifth generation of the car, which was introduced in 1997, is considered the best, it is especially valued for its reliability. For example, this version is still sold in Morocco as a new car, as if new generations had never appeared.

The fifth-generation Patrol has earned a reputation for being a vehicle that stands up to all conditions and even misuse. Some claim that its 4.5-liter 6-cylinder engine can last more than 350 thousand miles without major replacements. However, this figure is closely related to how well the car has been treated throughout its life. The worst model year is 2009 due to airbag issues.

3. Land Rover Defender

Models 90 and 110 are designed to survive any road and operation. Despite the fact that in the 90s, the Defender had almost no comfort options, these cars are able to last a lifetime. The owners on the Edmunds website claim that the SUV is sorely lacking a larger fuel tank and improved interior sealing. But even taking into account these details, the rating of the car is 4.2 stars, and many comments prove that the Land Rover of the 90s is a true friend of the driver on and off the road.

The worst years of Defender are 2020-2021. due to weak fastening of rubber gaskets, a malfunction of the coolant pump, and deformation of the front seat sled support over time, as well as problems with a large number of electronics that have appeared.

4. Jeep Cherokee

This car became famous even before the appearance of the term "SUV". The 1995 Jeep Cherokee made headlines for its top-notch marketing strategy to lure buyers away from other types of vehicles. It was presented as a sports wagon, and motorists liked this practicality. From the 2.0-liter I-4 to the 4.0-liter I-6, there was a wide range of engines to choose from, giving customers plenty to choose from. 

According to the Edmunds service, these cars easily got out of the most unpleasant situations and crossed the mark of 250 thousand miles on the odometer. The 1995 Cherokee proved to be a true warrior on four wheels. Cherokee's worst model year is 2014 due to differential damage, premature airbag deployment, and under-tightening of seat fasteners.

5. Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota's longest-running car series is the Land Cruiser. The car has been produced since 1951. Over time, the square appearance, reminiscent of a military vehicle, has turned into a family-comfortable SUV. The 1997 model is considered the most reliable. On the Edmunds service, Land Cruiser received 4.9 stars out of 5. This car is one of the most reliable vehicles in the history of mankind. 

Users claimed that they drove more than 500 thousand miles on their Land Cruiser. Among the frequently encountered problems, the owners noted problems and breakdowns of the radio antenna. Not an engine, not a transmission, not a fluid leak, but a weak signal and rapid oxidation of the antenna metal. The '97 Land Cruiser is one of the few cars that barely depreciate in value. 2009 is considered the worst year due to airbag malfunctions, accelerator pedal jamming, and air conditioning fires.