Reliability is one of the most important characteristics of a great used SUV, and these 10 are built like tanks.
The SUV segment has long been associated with unreliable and troublesome vehicles. With horror story repair costs, many motorists have simply opted to swerve the segment entirely. Over the last decade, the explosion in SUV popularity has seen the creation of many new crossovers. Being far less off-road-focused, there is less to go wrong, and maintenance costs are often in line with regular sedans and wagons.
For buyers who cannot justify plumping for one of the latest models, but still desire an SUV, some options do remain. Many reliable and affordable-to-maintain models have been unfairly tarnished. The models on this list buck the trend, having been praised for their quality and reliability. Providing they are maintained to the manufacturer’s requirements, the following pre-2010 usedSUVs should go on for many years to come.
10 2007 Infiniti FX35Infiniti-FX35Infiniti
The 2007 Infiniti FX35 was a seriously great handling SUV that could even give a sports sedan a run for its money. Under the hood, a powerful 3.5-liter V6 could be found, generating a decent 275 hp. The model came in just one trim level and provided a good level of standard equipment.
J.D. Power was suitably impressed by the FX35, awarding it a great 88/100 for reliability. The 2007 model saw the introduction of Apple iPod connectivity, which was a revolutionary feature at the time.
9 2010 Lexus RX 350Lexus-RX_350-2010Lexus
The Lexus RX 350 was fully redesigned for the 2010 model year. Compared to the previous generation, the car featured an increased number of airbags, a new six-speed transmission, and keyless ignition. The cabin was well-appointed, providing all the luxury most buyers could dream of.
Despite being an entry-level model, premium materials such as leather and real wood were incorporated. The 2010 model was highly praised by J.D. Power, with an enviable “Best” score of 93/100 for quality and reliability.
8 2008 Honda PilotHonda-Pilot_EX-L_4WD-Honda
The 2008 Honda Pilot was a great option for large family buyers. With the capacity to seat up to 8 occupants, and a boxy but practical shape, the Pilot could give many minivans a run for their money. There was just one engine option, with a 244-hp 3.5-liter V6 powering all variants.
The model proved to be reliable too, with J.D. Power awarding the model a great 85/100. The Pilot was capable of swallowing an impressive 88 cubic feet, with the rear seating rows folded, proving its versatility.
7 2009 Ford Edge
The 2009 Ford Edge afforded buyers the ability to carry up to five passengers in a good level of comfort. Even the base model was well-equipped, coming with air conditioning, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, and desirable reclining rear seats.
A 265-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine provided sufficient grunt to tow a respectable 3,500 lbs. Reliability was a strong point, with J.D. Power awarding the Ford Edge 82/100.
6 2007 Honda CR-VHonda-CR-V-2007Honda
The Honda CR-V was fully redesigned for the 2007 model year, with a focus on refinement. The highest specification EX-L model offered some seriously impressive tech. Features included a backup camera, a DVD-based satellite navigation system, heated seats, and even XM Satellite radio.
Despite all of this technological advancement, the car shouldn’t give too many reliability concerns. The model was awarded a superb 87/100 for quality and reliability by J.D. Power.
5 2009 Chevrolet EquinoxChevrolet-EquinoxChevrolet
The 2009 Chevrolet Equinox afforded its occupants a comfortable and spacious cabin. Thanks to an above-average wheelbase, occupants had room to stretch out, making those longer journeys less arduous. Similarly, the Equinox was able to transport a decent 35 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats upright and 69 cubic feet with them folded.
With a desirable 87/100 reliability rating awarded to the Equinox by J.D. Power, possible malfunctions should be minimal.
4 2008 Toyota FJ CruiserToyota-FJ_Cruiser-2007Toyota
For those who prioritize off-road ability in their midsize SUV, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is a fine choice. The vehicle features a good level of suspension travel and articulation, enabling it to traverse challenging terrain with ease. Similarly, a hulking 4.0-liter V6 produced 239 hp and 278 pound-feet of torque which was a formidable pairing with the car’s four-wheel drive system.
Despite the retro-inspired design, the FJ Cruiser’s underpinnings were clearly up to modern standards in 2008. J.D. Power awarded the model an enviable 86/100 for quality and reliability.
3 2007 Subaru ForesterSubaru-ForesterSubaru
The 2007 Subaru Forester is another great option for those buyers concerned about off-road performance. As standard, the model is equipped with Subaru’s proven all-wheel drive technology. In many ways, the Forester can be considered as being ahead of its time, sporting a crossover style design.
Where reliability is concerned, there should be relatively few things to worry about. The model was awarded a great 84/100 by J.D. Power.
2 2008 Toyota Rav4Toyota-RAV4_XToyota
The compact Toyota Rav4 is one of the smallest SUVs on our list. Despite this, Toyota has managed to pack in some seriously impressive features. For example, the model can carry up to seven occupants, thanks to an optional third row. Similarly, the Rav4 can haul 73 cubic feet of cargo, with the rear seats collapsed.
The car was available with a 269-hp V6 engine, providing plenty of power. The Rav4 was awarded an enviable 86/100 for reliability by J.D. Power.
1 2009 Lincoln MKXLincoln-MKXLincoln
At the heart of the Lincoln MKX, is a 265-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine. Generating 250 lb-ft of torque, there was plenty of grunt to get the MKX up to speed. Similarly, the car can tow up to 3,500 pounds, when an optional Class II towing package is selected.
As you might expect, the cabin offers a good level of comfort, with low noise levels and temperature-adjustable seats. The MKX achieved an impressive 87/100 in J.D. Power’s reliability ratings.
