Choosing a reliable vehicle is a significant decision, second only to buying a home in terms of financial investment for most people. While style and preference certainly play a role, long-term dependability is often the deciding factor. Buyers want cars built to last. However, it’s important to recognize that even within a single brand, some models consistently outperform others, influenced by factors like design, engineering, and overall production quality.
Identifying the most reliable car brand across the board isn’t simple. To determine which automakers consistently deliver vehicles with exceptional longevity, editors at iSeeCars analyzed data from over 402 million vehicles. The following brands consistently demonstrate above-average durability, though the margins are narrow enough that it’s still wise to research individual models.
Here’s a look at the top 10 brands with the greatest potential for achieving 250,000 miles:
1. Toyota
Photo by: Toyota
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 17.8%
Compared To Average: 3.7x
Toyota’s focus on simplicity and practicality in manufacturing has earned it the top spot. While their vehicles may not always offer the most exciting driving experience, their unmatched reliability makes them a standout choice—particularly valuable in today’s economy where dependable transportation is a priority.
2. Lexus
Photo by: Lexus
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 12.8%
Compared To Average: 2.7x
Lexus, Acura’s more popular rival, not only outsells it but is also widely regarded as a premium brand on par with German luxury automakers. Lexus built its reputation for reliability with the launch of the LS400 in 1989 and has consistently upheld it ever since, thanks to a strong focus on engineering and technology—a strength reflected in its parent company’s top rankings.
3. Honda
Photo by: Honda
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 10.8%
Compared To Average: 2.3x
Honda has long been synonymous with reliability. Its consistently dependable models continue to earn praise. The company’s only drawback is that it doesn’t sell quite as many vehicles as some of its competitors.
4. Acura
Photo by: Acura
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 7.2%
Compared To Average: 1.5x
Though Acura is a Honda offshoot, it primarily targets the North American market, positioning itself as a competitor to Lexus. Like GMC, many Acura models are based on Honda’s mainstream vehicles, which are sold in high volumes. This approach, however, works in Acura’s favor for reliability, making it a strong choice for long-term ownership.
5. GMC
Photo by: GMC
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 4.6%
Compared To Average: 1.0x
GMC’s focus on trucks and SUVs has helped it become the most reliable automaker outside of Japan. The brand’s models are frequently based on Chevrolet or Cadillac platforms, allowing for extensive parts sharing. With less need for entirely new designs, GMC can focus on its identity as a near-luxury brand, comfortably positioned between its siblings.
6. Tesla
Photo by: Tesla
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 4.6%
Compared To Average: 1.0x
Despite ongoing discussions about the company and its CEO, Tesla vehicles demonstrate remarkable durability. This is largely due to the simplicity of electric vehicles compared to traditional gas-powered cars, as well as the fact that each model shares a significant amount of common hardware and software components.
7. Chevrolet
Photo by: Chevrolet
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 4.5%
Compared To Average: 0.9x
Chevrolet matches Cadillac in reliability but ranks slightly higher due to its greater overall sales volume. This suggests that Chevy vehicles are built to high standards, often without the need for as many recalls as seen with competitors like Ford.
8. Cadillac
Photo by: Cadillac
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 4.5%
Compared To Average: 0.9x
Perhaps surprisingly, Cadillac makes the list largely due to the enduring popularity of the Escalade, which is the brand’s flagship model and best-seller. Built on the same truck platform as Chevrolet and GMC models, the Escalade benefits from the proven durability that has earned those brands top marks for longevity.
9. Mazda
Photo by: Mazda
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 3.6%
Compared To Average: 0.7x
The first Japanese brand to appear on the list, Mazda may not produce vehicles in the same high volumes as some of its competitors, but its commitment to quality is clear. The relatively small number of cars that leave its factories are consistently well-built and reliable enough that many have a solid chance of reaching a quarter of a million miles over their lifetime.
10. Ram Trucks
Photo by: Ram
Percentage Most Likely To Reach 250K Miles: 3.5%
Compared To Average: 0.7x
Ram’s inclusion in the top ten is largely thanks to its long-standing partnership with Cummins diesel engines, a collaboration that has defined its reputation for reliability. While Cummins power isn’t the only reason drivers choose a Ram, it’s reassuring to know that these trucks are built to go the distance.
Longest Lasting Car Brands
- Toyota
- Lexus
- Honda
- Acura
- GMC
- Tesla
- Chevrolet
- Cadillac
- Mazda
- Ram Trucks
These rankings underscore the importance of reliable vehicles, especially when considering the significant financial commitment of a car purchase. While personal taste remains a factor, the brands listed above offer a solid foundation for long-term ownership and peace of mind.
