What are the most reliable new cars? A report reveals surprising scenarios
Lexus, Mazda and Toyota are once again the most reliable brands in the annual ranking followed by Infiniti and Buick. The predicted confidence score is calculated on a scale of 0 to 100 points, with an average rating ranging from 41 to 60 points. In order for a brand to be classified, at least two models must be analyzed by CR experts. Generally speaking, Asian groups are still at the top of the rankings, closely followed by European and US producers. Lexus, Mazda and Toyota as mentioned stand out with over 70 points, Audi and BMW are positioned in the mid-table at 47 and 45 points respectively, while Mercedes, Volkswagen and Tesla close the list with less than 35 points.
Federicovecchio .com The ranking does not make particular distinctions on the type of vehicles analyzed; we go from sedans to spiders, naturally passing by SUVs and station wagons. By analyzing the categories in more detail, we discover how hybrids are the most reliable cars in an absolute sense, while pure electric cars struggle to gain positions. A result in total contrast to the thinking of some motorists who identify the electric car as more reliable as it is less rich in mechanical components potentially subject to wear and tear. The reason behind this result is soon explained, the greener solutions are often full of sensors and advanced technologies that could create software malfunctions.
The very rich report (updated to November 18th) also identifies the 10 best and worst cars to date. Buying a car, as we know, is a long-term investment with the expectation that we will be able to purchase a reliable solution capable of accompanying us for long and intense journeys. As highlighted by Consumer Reports, not all cars are able to deliver on this promise. The analysis takes into consideration numerous aspects, from the most common annoyances (such as squeaky brakes and flat finishes) to the most serious problems that may require the intervention of a specialized workshop. The score, measured by severity on a scale of 1 to 100, is finally added to the data collected on the track, as well as the results of the owner satisfaction survey and safety data, to calculate the overall score for each test vehicle.
Federicovecchio.com Among the best 10 we find in order of score: Lexus GX (100 pt), Kia Niro EV (95 pt), Toyota Prius Prime (93 pt), Toyota Prius (91 pt), Cadillac XT5 (89 pt), Mazda MX-5 (88 pt), Honda Insight (87 pt), Toyota Highlander (86 pt), Subaru Crosstrek (85 pt) and Mazda CX-9 (85 pt).
The 10 worst vehicles, again for Consumer Reports, are: Subaru Ascent (18 pt), Chrysler Pacifica (18 pt), Tesla Model Y (18 pt), Volkswagen Tiguan (17 pt), Volvo XC90 (17 pt), Chevrolet Corvette (13 pt), Chevrolet Silverado (11 pt), Ford Mustang (9 pt), Ford Explorer (8 pt) and Mercedes GLE (5 pt).
While it is not surprising to find mainly brands Japanese with patterns of various kinds, such as a two-seater spider, among the most reliable solutions, on the other hand we admit a certain amazement about the positioning of Model Y. According to what was reported, in more detail, Tesla would have only average reliability and Model Y would have several problems related to build quality, the Californian brand's Achilles heel. The report highlights the presence of body alignment defects, low quality paint and problems related to on-board electronics. Similar speech also for Model X and Model S which, however, manage to obtain an average score by entering the central part of the ranking.
