• A study by Consumer Reports recommends the most reliable used cars, trucks, and SUVs from the past three years.
  • 16 out of the 36 models come from Toyota and Lexus, including the sole recommended model in the full-size truck segment.
  • The list proves that Asian brands still have the upper hand in reliability.

Reliability is one of the main concerns of used car buyers, together with price competitiveness and available features. In order to help buyers navigate through the countless available options in the used car market, Consumer Reports published a list of the most reliable three-year-old vehicles, covering a wide range of segments.

Buying a used vehicle from 2021 seems like a reasonable choice, as it will be much cheaper than the 2024 equivalent, without significant compromises in modern comfort and safety features. Timing is also important, as most three-year-old vehicles in the used market come from leases, which means the majority are in good overall condition

More: The Most Reliable New Cars, SUVs, And Brands In 2023

Consumer Reports conducted the reliability study based on the Annual Auto Surveys completed by its members. Toyota and Lexus dominated the list, occupying 16 out of the 36 spots. The latest generation of the Corolla was praised for being ‘one of the best used-car values,’ as the new model remains largely unchanged. The Camry was described as a ‘wise used-car choice.’

There were also 8 models from Honda and Acura, three from Mazda, three from Hyundai and Kia, and another two from Subaru. Overall, 32 out of the 36 models come from Asian brands, proving they still have the upper hand in reliability.

Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks

2021 Toyota Tundra

Three models recommended for their reliability came from Europe: two BMWs and a Volvo. Similarly, American brands had fewer entries, with two from Ford and Lincoln, and one from GMC.

Interestingly, the sole recommended model among three-year-old full-size trucks is the previous generation Toyota Tundra, in its last model year before the redesign. Regardless of the automaker’s origin, infotainment systems were often the main source of criticism by owners, despite some notable exceptions.

You can check out the full list below. Do note that the recommended models are listed in alphabetical order and categorized by segment.

The Most Reliable Three-Year Old Cars And SUVs

Compact
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks
Midsize And Large
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks
Luxury
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks
Sports Cars
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks
Small And Compact SUVs
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks
Midsize And Large SUVs
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks
Trucks
Consumer Reports Names The Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Cars, SUVs And Trucks

Source: Consumer Reports