The reliability of your car is something you should pay particular attention to if you consider your car to be an investment. There are a number of models that have excellent ratings for longevity including some released this year. The list of top-performing cars for 2018 include cars from a variety of classes; from compact to supercars, which demonstrates that reliability is not directly linked to a price tag. Let’s check out the updated list of new and classic cars that will definitely last more than 250,000km.
40. Toyota Yaris
Developed by Mazda, launched by Scion, and now marketed as a Toyota, the Yaris iA proves that subcompact cars can delight. A different model from the Toyota Yaris hatchback, the frisky iA sedan stands out in a segment filled with insubstantial models. It feels refined for this entry-level class, with a smooth and willing four-cylinder engine, slick six-speed automatic transmission, and relatively compliant ride, making the Yaris iA a desirable no-excuses budget sedan.
39. Chevrolet Cruze
This redesigned sedan and hatchback bests two segment stalwarts, the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, with an Overall Score at the top of the class. The formula is simple: Put the Malibu and Impala in a shrink ray, reducing scale but preserving the commendable driving manners and generous available features. The result is a hushed, smooth-riding sedan that’s roomy enough to be a budget-friendly alternative to a midsized car. The polished 153-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine is lively yet frugal.
38. Toyota Prius
The car that pioneered the hybrid movement and has defined fuel-efficiency for four model generations still stands tall as an innovative green machine. The Prius touts excellent reliability, a remarkable accomplishment given the inherent complexity of its hybrid powertrain. It has improved even more with its recent redesign, reducing cabin noise, improving ride comfort, and making handling more responsive.
37. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the embodiment of driving pleasure. Its alchemical formula has been honed since 1990, with the core ingredients consistently being a pliant four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, sharp handling, and light weight. The Miata truly comes alive on winding roads, with immediate steering response and a handling balance that will make you grin. On top of all that, it gets impressive fuel economy. Fantastically fun and frugal, the Miata is spellbinding.
36. Kia Optima
Move over Honda Accord and Toyota Camry: The Kia Optima rocks the midsized sedan segment as a smart alternative to the me-too mainstream. It checks all of the right boxes for family-sedan buyers, with responsive handling, a steady ride and pleasant powertrain, short stopping distances, easy-to-use controls, and a roomy backseat. The Optima has outstanding reliability and extensive warranty coverage, savvy sedan shoppers should take this recently redesigned car for a test drive.
35. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester sets the standard for small SUVs, combining relatively roomy packaging, fuel efficiency, solid reliability, and easy access. Large windows and a boxy shape maximize room for passengers and gear in sharp contrast to style trends exhibited by competitors that compromise practicality. Performance is decent from the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and fuel economy is excellent at 26 mpg overall. And last, safety technology like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking is available on all but the base trim level.
34. Audi Q7
The seven-passenger Q7 is sumptuous and pampering, and feels more like a luxury sedan than an SUV. The quiet interior coddles riders, and it’s decked out with premium trimmings and road-trip-friendly seats. The infotainment system provides seamless interaction with phone, audio, and other functions. Despite its generous size, the Q7 has genuine agility, with road-hugging chops, a settled ride, and excellent brakes for rapid stops. Sure, it’s pricey, but it’s also rich in rewards.
33. Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline glides along, more akin to a sedan than its roughneck rivals. It also handles far better than any compact or full-sized pickup, and it shames all nondiesel trucks for fuel economy. The Ridgeline isn’t up for big-time towing or off-road adventures, but this smartly designed truck more than makes up for that with other benefits. The lockable in-bed trunk and dual-mode tailgate add to its flexibility. Many truck buyers dream of a large, rugged behemoth, but the Ridgeline excels at the factors most noncommercial drivers with weekend warrior aspirations will appreciate.
32. Honda Accord
Building on significant updates in the last few years, the 2018 Honda Accord should appeal whether your prioritising interior space, fuel economy or reliability. This model comes with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
31. Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna may be one of the oldest minivans in the segment, a steady stream of improvements has kept it competitive. This year’s model has an impressive 5/5 predicted reliability score from a wide range of car specialists.
30. Honda Pilot
Luxurious SUVs are not always synonymous with reliable vehicles. There are more than enough examples out there to prove this point. With that said, Honda Pilot doesn’t belong to that group. There are first generation Pilots out there with some pretty ridiculous mileages. The latest version of this SUV promises to bring the same reliability.
29. Honda CR-V
This compact crossover from Honda was always packed with useful features, and came with reliable engines. One of those that quickly comes to mind is their 2.4 liter four-cylinder found in older models of this car. There is nothing flashy about a Honda CR-V, especially considering the exterior design many find repulsive. However, no one can dispute the fact that these cars simply keep on driving well into six figure on the clock.
28. Toyota Highlander
During its lifetime, Toyota Highlander saw several design updates which made it larger, offering more space inside the passenger cabin along with several other additions. What didn’t change was it’s reliability. The 3.5 liter V6 found in earlier models has proven to be a very tough piece of machinery, which could easily outlast many of its competitors if taken care of.
27. Honda Civic
Honda Civic has the reputation similar to that of Toyota Corolla. Civics have always been considered as reliable and fuel efficient compact cars that would get you where you need to go. It used to be, and is still to an extent, a no thrills kind of car. It grew a large following all over the world, especially in United States thanks to its great engines and customization potential. Whether you’re buying new or used, a Honda Civic will always be a safe option.
26. Toyota 4Runner
Toyota 4Runner is one of those compact SUVs that has a very extensive history of serious off-road use. Because of this it is one of the more favorite choices for all 4×4 enthusiasts around the world. Aside from its off-road capabilities, the 4Runner also came with a number of engines that could take that kind of abuse on a regular basis, while delivering the necessary torque.
25. Ford F-150
Also known as the workhorse of America, the Ford F-150 was designed with reliability in mind. It’s no wonder you can find these trucks in all kinds of small businesses, and ranches across United States. For generations it was the default truck you could rely on to get the work done, day after day, year after year. Needless to say, a well maintained F-150 will reach 250,000 miles without an issue.
24. Ford F-250 Super Duty
Similar to the F-150 but larger, the F-250 Super Duty is a towing beast. Every component found on this truck was designed for heavy duty use, from the frame to a lineup of engines that could bear the extra load on a daily basis. From the start, it was more or less a requirement for these trucks to be able to reach high mileage, therefore it’s no wonder you will find some that have way more than 250,000 miles on the clock.
23. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The rivalry between Ford and Chevy transpires the well known performance car segment. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is one of the many trucks Chevy has produced so far, which are the main competition to Ford’s F-series. These two brands are currently tied for the market share, and have created loyal followings in United States. Chevy Silverado 2500HD is a durable truck that can take the abuse and keep driving. Much like the F-250 Super Duty, you will find these trucks with six figure mileage on the clock all over.
22. GMC Sierra 2500HD
GMC Sierra 2500HD is another well known choice for anyone who needs a pickup truck capable of both towing and transporting heavier loads. While it may not be as popular as the Chevy or Ford, GMC Sierra trucks always had an established presence in the American market. Definitely a solid vehicle with capable engines, suitable for heavy duty use.
21. Mercedes-Benz W123
Long before Mercedes-Benz cars became a synonym for expensive maintenance, this German car manufacturer used to build some of the most reliable and mechanically invincible cars you could find. The W123 platform is definitely the most notable in this aspect, especially the diesel models. Mercedes even gave out certificates and badges once you hit certain mileage. The fact that the most prestigious badge you could get was for 1,000,000 miles speaks volumes about these cars.
20. Mercedes-Benz E Class W124
The Mercedes Benz W124 E Class introduced updated versions of legendary diesel engines found in W123. Needless to say, this Mercedes also lived to become one of their most reliable and durable models to date. With proper maintenance, hitting the 250,000 miles mark was nothing unusual, and these cars were known to go much farther than that.
19. Toyota Land Cruiser
Outside of United States, Toyota Land Cruiser is regarded as one of the best off-road vehicles one can buy. They are built like tanks, have outstanding AWD systems, and come with engines that are nearly immortal. This is especially true for their 4.2 liter diesel units that are the choice of many Australians who love to go deep into the bush, and various UN missions around the world.
18. Nissan Patrol
If Toyota Land Cruiser is the Yin, Nissan Patrol is the Yang. These two vehicles, although different, feature similar engines that seem to be indestructible, impressive off-road capabilities, and overall great build quality. Nissan Patrol is not your everyday SUV. This vehicle was not designed for soccer moms to pick up kids after school, it was designed to traverse most hostile terrains you can find.
17. Ford Crown Victoria
What is probably the most recognizable police cruiser in the world is also one of the most reliable cars on the market. Ford Crown Vics are slowly being phased out with mileage in high six figures, however once their service in law enforcement is over, they are usually re purposed as taxis. Seeing 500,000 miles on the clock of Crown Vic is a regular occurrence, let alone 250,000.
16. Lincoln Town Car
Lincoln Town Car is one the three models that share the same platform, which also includes the Ford Crown Victoria. As you can expect, the Town Car features similar specs as the Crown Vic, only in a more luxurious package. Its 4.6 liter V8 engine definitely deserves some praise, especially since it hasn’t changed much during its 13 years long career.
15. Scion xB 
There are those who like Scions, and those who hate them. You will rarely find a person who is not opinionated when it comes to these cars. Whatever your opinion about this brand may be, Scion xB has proven to be a reliable car. It just keeps going, and according to the customer feedback, these things will easily reach 250,000 miles.
14. VW Golf 4 TDI
Some will argue that 1.9 liter TDI engines that came with Volkswagen Golf 4 were some of the best engines VW has made, and they wouldn’t be wrong. These turbocharged diesel units were pretty flexible, but also robust. You will find numerous Golfs with a lot of miles on the clock, which still run perfectly fine, and will probably keep doing so in foreseeable future.
13. Saab 9000
Although it’s no longer in production, Saab 9000 was one of the best examples of just how good Swedish automotive industry was at one point. It was built on Fiat’s Tipo Quattro platform, which was shared with three more Fiat models, and it featured a more than decent lineup of engines. It wasn’t an overly pretty car, but it was loyal to its owners.
12. Dodge Ram Cummins
When Dodge and Cummins figured out that working together could benefit both parties, they’ve created a truck that quickly became a top seller. Cummins engines found in recent models of Dodge Ram come in two flavors. The 5.9 liter turbocharged inline 6, and its 6.7 liter newer version. Both of these engines deliver some serious performance, with excessive amounts of torque and very decent peak horsepower. Aside from their raw power, these engines are also incredibly reliable.
11. Lexus ES 350/450
While you may consider this Lexus to be boring with its average design and rather mild performance, ES 350/450 compensates with its longevity. These cars are simply well built, and a great testament to that fact is the large number of happy owners whose cars are still serving them well after 200,000 miles on the clock.
10. Acura RDX
Acura’s crossover SUV is one of the most reliable cars in its class, proven by numerous happy customers around the world. As it is powered by a 3.5L V6 with 279 horsepower, the Acura RDX has a decent powerplant that doesn’t endure much stress, and if the car is maintained regularly, it can easily pass the 250,000-mile mark. The RDX comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard, which also helps the maximum mileage.
9. BMW 5 Series E39
Produced from 1995 to 2004, E39 generation of the BMW 5 Series sedan has not aged incredibly well, but was one of the prime examples of German engineering too. On the second hand market, it’s not strange to see an E39 with more than 250,000 miles on the clock, and a well-kept example can cover even more. BMW’s inline six engines have always been known for decent performance and reliability, and the E39 5 Series is no exception.
8. Nissan Titan XD
Cummins diesel engines are synonymous with ruggedness, reliability and durability, and Nissan Titan XD offers exactly that under the hood. 5.6L V8 petrol engine comes as standard, and it’s also an engine that will run for hundreds of thousands of miles, but if you really don’t want any worries, you should choose the Cummins 5.0L turbo diesel V8.
7. Toyota Sequoia
As many other Toyotas on the list, the Sequoia is also a rugged, extremely reliable SUV, albeit in a full-size package. Its 5.7L V8 with 6-speed automatic transmission is the engine that can survive even the most extreme driving conditions or neglect, so a well-kept Toyota Sequoia will have no worries reaching and passing 250,000 miles. The fuel consumption might not be great, but hey, it’s still a full-size SUV.
6. Mazda MX-5
Even though the Miata is a sports car, you’ll have no worries about maximum mileage of your car, as long as you take good care of it. That’s because it’s extremely simple mechanics are crowned with a 2.0L Skyactiv inline-four engine, which means that as a MX-5 owner, you’ll just have to maintain it regularly, which are relatively cheap expenses compared to other sports cars on the market.
5. Toyota RAV4
Toyota’s bestseller crossover is now in its fourth generation, and as all previous generations, the last one has also proven itself when it comes to reliability. Basically, that means that the XA40 RAV4 can also cover more than 250,000 miles, especially if you follow regular maintenance schedule and if you don’t put it through much hassle. A selection of petrol and diesel engines is available, and if you want durability, you should choose the RAV4 with automatic transmission.
4. Subaru Legacy
Subaru’s boxer engines are renowned for their ability to endure even the toughest situations, so if you decide to buy the Legacy sedan, you’ll have no worries reaching 250,000 miles and more. Your rugged companion has all-wheel-drive as standard, and comes with either 2.5L or 3.6L engine mated with Lineartronic® CVT transmission.
3. Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
The Silverado 3500HD is one of the most popular and trusted heavy duty trucks on the market, and when equipped with Duramax® 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8, it can really endure all sorts of abuse and still get to the 250,000-mile mark with ease. In standard trim, the Silverado 3500HD comes with Vortec® 6.0L petrol V8, which is also a powerplant that can cover hundreds of thousands of miles like it’s nothing.
2. Chevrolet Impala
As one of the most reliable cars on the North American market, Chevrolet Impala is a car ready to suit all your needs, even if that means covering quarter of a million miles in its lifespan. The standard engine choice is the ECOTEC 2.5L DOHC 4-cylinder, but if you want to be sure that you’ll squeeze the most out of this sedan, you should go for a 305-horsepower 3.6L DOHC V6 with 6-speed automatic as standard.
1. Ford Taurus
If you are ready to maintain it regularly, the Ford Taurus can reach that 250,000-mile mark with ease. For optimal result, go for the 288 horsepower 3.5L V6 engine rather than 2.0L Ecoboost inline-four or 3.5L Ecoboost V6 of the SHO. The engine of the Taurus is mated to 6-speed automatic transmission, which will definitely help its durability too.