Consumer Reports (CR) has published its annual vehicle reliability survey. The survey ranked cars, trucks, and SUV models on 17 potential trouble spots including engine, power equipment, body, and electronics. The cumulative score of a company’s models determines the brand’s overall reliability ranking for 2021 models.

The CR survey, which includes over 300,000 vehicles, determines predicted reliability for new vehicles on a 0-100 scale, with the average vehicle being between 41 and 60 points. The fewer the problems, the higher the score. Due to insufficient data, or brands not having enough vehicles, some brands and models were not included in these ratings.

The Most Reliable 2021 SUV

The Best Subcompact Crossovers and SUVs to Buy in 2021. Separating the good from the great (and the bad) in the small SUV space. Miguel Cortina Mon Jan 25 2021. In a world rapidly being consumed by car-based crossovers, Toyota's 4Runner is one of the few remaining mid-size SUVs to share DNA with a pickup truck. Although it's offered in two-wheel-drive.

In the survey findings, the Lexus NX. The NX is the company’s entry-level compact crossover with a starting price under $40,000.

The NX blends interior comforts, with lots of standard safety features, and great reliability. It was just one model that helped push Lexus to 3rd overall in brand reliability ratings.

Overall, the top 5 most reliable SUVs in the reliability survey were the NX, Buick Encore, Lexus GX, Honda HR-V, and Hyundai Kona. These models cover the subcompact, compact, luxury, and full-size SUV categories.

The Least Reliable 2021 SUV

The CR survey found that the Ford Explorer was the least reliable SUV. The Explorer was plagued with problems in its engines, electronics, power equipment, body, and transmission. It scored a paltry 1 out of 100 in the reliability survey.

The Explorer, which was redesigned for 2020, was plagued by a rushed production. More specifically, this caused problems with faulty seats, digital displays with buggy software, and loose wiring harnesses.

“The Ford Explorer, redesigned for 2020, is one of the lowest scoring models from any manufacturer — domestic or foreign — this year” – Consumer Reports Drivers pulmonary data service instrumentation usb devices.

The redesigned Ford Escape compact crossover didn’t perform much better. And the subcompact Ecosport crossover was another downer. Overall as a company, Ford did poorly finishing in the bottom 5.

The other lease reliable SUVs based on the survey were the Subaru Ascent, Volkswagen Atlas, Jeep Compass, and Volvo XC90.

The Least Reliable Car Brand

Ford’s luxury brand, Lincoln, finished as the lowest-rated brand for reliability overall. However, there were other manufacturers they didn’t have enough data to rank including Fiat, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Jaguar, Mitsubishi, and Land Rover.

Lincolns were plagued with similar problems as described with the Explorer with the Aviator and Corsair having poor reliability.

Mazda Has the Most Reliable Cars

Overall, for the first time ever, Mazda ranked first as the brand with the most reliable vehicles. This is a big win for the Japanese automaker to dethrone Toyota and Lexus at the top spot of the annual vehicle reliability survey.

Mazda’s small CX-3, still subcompact CX-30, and compact CX-5 also performed well in reliability ratings, all scoring 85 or better.

These types of consistent results helped push Mazda into the most reliable car brand spot. We recently ranked the CX-30 on our best SUV list.

The Top 5 Most Reliable Car Brands

In 2020, Lexus took the top spot in the survey. The LS model didn’t fare as well this year and that contributed to dropping the luxury automaker to the third spot. Lexus’ parent company Toyota finished second in the reliability survey for 2021 models.

Buick and Honda rounded out the top five most reliable car brands. Honda’s midsize crossover, the Passport, had reported reliability problems.

What Helped Mazda Have the Most Reliable Vehicles?

Based on the survey Mazda’s success with reliable vehicles is due in part to their use of more durable, six-speed automatic transmissions in lieu of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).

CVT use is growing in popularity among automakers but they tend to be more fragile and less reliable. That means more repairs, more expense, and a lower reliability score.

Mazda has accomplished while still maintaining above-average fuel economy in their vehicles. And with their crisp handling and quality fit and finish, their vehicles are known to be fun to drive.

CR also noted that Mazda takes an iterative approach to vehicle design. Instead of making wholesale changes on models, they take a more gradual approach to change. This has lead to less flaws with defects and other unexpected flaws due to new technology.

Despite having less emphasis on cabin tech, Mazda still garners excellent safety ratings. It’s subcompact CX-3 model earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ award for its crash test ratings.

However, if you like touch screens, large infotainment systems, or other advanced tech, Mazda may not be the brand for you.

The Most Improved 2021 SUV

Buick was the most improved brand for reliability, jumping up 14 spots to the 4th spot overall among carmakers. Its subcompact crossover, the Encore, showed significant improvements in reliability and came in as the second most reliable crossover model.

Other brands that showed improvement in reliability included BMW, with its midsize X5 model making gains, Volvo, with its XC40 performing well, and Jeep with the Wrangler doing better.

German SUV Reliability

Porsche was the highest-ranked European automaker finishing 9th overall among automotive brands in the reliability survey.

Audi was in the middle of the pack. The A5 and A4 models both rated above average. However, its reliability rating was hurt by the subcompact Q3 crossover, the new tech-heavy midsize coupe crossover Q8, and its e-tron electric SUV. These models were found to have below or well below average reliability in the study.

Mercedes may do well on the innovation, comfort, and technology side but they didn’t fare well in reliability. Mercedes finished last among German automakers in the 20th spot.

Tesla Reliability

Tesla’s new Model Y crossover, unfortunately, didn’t fare so well in the CR reliability survey. Reported issues with fit and finish including misaligned body panels and mismatched paint tanked its rating.

The Model Y’s rating was much worse than average. It dragged the electric automaker down to the penultimate spot in the reliability rankings, ahead of only Lincoln.

Most Reliable Crossover Suv 2014

Keep Reliability in Mind When Buying an SUV

Vehicle reliability is important as not only is it a major headache when your SUV is in the shop, it can be downright costly. Not only can it increase your maintenance and repair costs, but it also can decrease the resale value of your vehicle.

You can learn more about the CR reliability survey and get the overall brand ratings list here. To view how rating have changed over the past year, check out our most and least reliable 2020 SUVs article.

Had a good or bad experience with a 2021 SUV model? We want to hear from you. Please share your experience in the comments below.

Reliability is perhaps the most important aspect of any vehicle. This is because all the fancy tech gear, latest infotainment system or high-end materials will not matter if the car breaks down every now and then.

When it comes to being reliable, crossovers and SUVs are the best. They have not only become the favorites of the automotive world but they are definitely more practical than sedans and minivans. We have compiled a list of the best reliable SUVs and Crossovers found in Dubai so that you can save time and effort of research.

1) 2019 Nissan Murano

This is an upscale car with an elegant interior design, comfortable two rows seats and simple infotainment system. The latest technological features are easy-to-use and the safety techniques make it very reliable. Maximum power is delivered by the 3.5 liter V6 engine and standard 260 horsepower. The fuel efficiency is always above average. The continuous variable automatic transmission works well in the system. All in all, Nissan Murano is a good car to drive in Dubai.

1) Ford Edge 2020

Although this is not a three row vehicle, it still fits into the category of a luxury SUV. You can purchase this new Ford car in an amazing deal in Dubai. Many excellent features are standard and the fuel economy is great. Acceleration is achieved quickly and the handling is agile. There is more than enough space for 5 people along with the cargo. The basic trim contains a 2 liter turbocharged engine with a 250 horsepower. This is replaced by a bigger 2.7 liter, V6 turbocharged engine and 335 horsepower.

1) Chevrolet Traverse 2020

This car has a generous cargo space, intuitive infotainment system and tech haven interior space. It is a must have if you have a big family to drive around because it can accommodate more than 8 people in the spacious 3 rows. The powerful 9-speed automatic transmission along with 3.6, V6 liter engine and 310 horsepower gets the job done for all the trips in Dubai.

1) Honda Passport 2019

If you want to get more from an SUV, this car is meant for you. It boasts a comfortable ride, excellent performance, huge cabin space, large cargo area and off-road satisfaction. The energetic 3.5 liter V6 engine, 280 horsepower and 9-speed automatic transmission are the best for giving sporty fun-to-drive capability. The safety features are top notch as well. Considering how reliable the vehicle is, if you sell your car in Dubai sometime in the future than visit CarSwitch, it will hold good resale value.

Most Reliable Crossover Suvs 2021

1) Volkswagen Atlas 2019

This is a roomy vehicle which is meant to be used by a big family. There is a huge cargo space and comfortable three rows. Many safety and technological features have been made standard. The ride quality is excellent and the infotainment system is simple to use. The two turbocharged and 4-cylinder engines work together to offer high power. The 8-speed automatic transmission gives fluid and agile handling so that you can maneuver through the crowded streets of Dubai.

1) Toyota Highlander 2019

This is an all-rounder midsize SUV with optimum performance. The interior is well designed, quiet and sophisticated. More than 8 people can sit in the cabin. Many upscale safety features are standard whereas the optional V6 engine is sporty and efficient.

1) Mazda CX-9 2019

This is an outstanding choice for anyone who wants a combination of SUV with fun-to-drive satisfaction. This nimble car has a turbocharged 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder engine along with the 6-speed automatic transmission which delivers all the power. Cozy and spacious interior made with the best materials can be seen inside. The variety of both tech and safety features is impressive. Quick acceleration and responsive handling is offered by the smooth powertrain. This Mazda vehicle rests on one of the top positions in fuel economy which is important if you’re residing in Dubai.

1) Hyundai Palisade 2020

This list will be incomplete without Hyundai Palisade which is another great vehicle for families. More than 8 passengers can be seated in the three big rows. Maximum convenience is provided by the tech features. Both cargo and passenger sides have more than enough space. The interior is top notch and the driving is satisfactory due to elastic handling and smooth steering. You will regain your confidence in acceleration because the 8-speed automatic transmission makes it quick.

1) Kia Soul 2020

This is a unique SUV with respect to exterior. It has a styled square shaped rear which looks remarkable in the Dubai streets. The cargo game of this car is strong because it can accommodate huge and heavy items. The 2017 to 2019 variants of this model consist of rear end air conditioning, 6-speaker sound system, tilt steering column and split folding back seat. Optiquest monitors driver download. The three trims for this vehicle are Base, Plus and Exclaim. There is a choice for engines and transmission both of which are powerful

1) Honda CR-V 2020

This is the fifth generation of the popular SUV with a redesigned version. Ease of use and convenience is given by the driver assistance functions which consists of lane departure warning and forward collision warning. The standard features include cruise control, power side mirrors, split folding back seats and automatic climate control. The three trims of Honda CR-V come with a fresh 1.5 liter, 4-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower. All the trims are given a continuous variable transmission which comes handy for driving in Dubai.

1) Jeep Renegade 2020

This tough jeep is built for rugged terrains which means that you can have a thrilling off-road adventure. There is a choice of 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive except the higher Trailhawk trim which only offers 4WD. This trim includes extra drive modes, skid plates and tow hooks. These functions will let you go to places others do not dare to go. Some of the standard features of this Jeep are halogen headlamps, split folding back seat bench arrangement, fold front passenger seat and audio controls at the steering wheel. The 2019 model is fully automatic whereas the previous ones have the manual option too.

These two car types have excellent fuel efficiency and handling and are affordable as well.