The 1990s was the decade when SUVs really started to increase in popularity. Before then, people mostly thought of SUVs as off-road vehicles. However, in the 1990s, automakers improved the functionality and practicality of SUVs. This broadened their mainstream appeal. Some of these SUVs are still going strong. Here are the most reliable used 1990s SUVs that last many miles.

Mercury Mountaineer is the most reliable and long-lasting used 1990s SUV

As detailed by HotCars, the most reliable used 1990s SUV that lasts many miles is the Mercury Mountaineer midsize luxury SUV. The Mountaineer might be unfamiliar to some readers. Along with the entire Mercury brand, the Mountaineer was discontinued, with production ending in 2010.

The Mountaineer shared many of the same features and mechanical components with the Ford Explorer. For the Explorer, Ford reserved the best features and performance capabilities for the highest trim. However, Ford and Mercury applied these premium features and capabilities to the Mountaineer. Highlights of the Mounteer include its “5.0-liter V8, 5-door body, 4-speed automatic or 5-speed automatic transmission, and the implementation of a new grid.”

Lincoln Navigator is the second-most reliable used 1990s SUV that lasts many miles

On HotCar’s list of the most reliable used 1990s SUVs that last many miles, the Lincoln Navigator full-size luxury SUV takes the second spot. First introduced for the 1998 model year, the Navigator “was Lincoln’s counterpart to the Ford Expedition.” However, the “difference was that the Lincoln SUV had a higher load capacity.”

Like the Expedition, the Navigator shared some elements with the 1997 Ford F-Series.” This includes mechanical similarities. Highlights of the Navigator include its durable body-on-frame construction, a choice of either a 5.4L Triton SOHC V-8 or a 5.4L InTech DOHC V-8 engine, and a 4-speed 4R100 automatic transmission.” Also, the Navigator had an independent front suspension and a rear suspension with a live rear axle. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee is the third-most reliable and long-lasting used 1990s SUV

The Jeep Grand Cherokee midsize luxury SUV takes the third spot on HotCar’s list of the most reliable used 1990s SUVs that last many miles. First launched in 1992, the Grand Cherokee had the name “ZJ” for the first generation.

Buyers of the first-generation Grand Cherokee have a choice of three models. The base model for the base Grand Cherokee, which Jeep later discontinued, has a standard five-speed manual transmission and a cloth interior. For a higher level of luxury, the top-tier Grand Cherokee has “electric windows, a keyless entry system, and leather seats with heating.” It also has a “Jensen brand stereo with a multi-band equalizer.”

What are the most unreliable used 1990s SUVs?

Following the Mercury Mountaineer, Lincoln Navigator, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, the rest of the HotCar’s list of the most reliable used 1990s SUVs that last the many miles includes the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Cherokee, and Mercedes-Benz ML320.

HotCars also listed the most unreliable used 1990s. This includes the Mazda Navajo, Land Rover Discovery II, Fiat Multipla, Isuzu VehiCROSS, Pontiac Sunrunner, and Tata Estate. Considering that the unreliable 1990s SUVs were prone to breaking down, there are not many of these vehicles that are still on the road.