The Most Reliable Luxury SUV Isn’t a BMW or Mercedes
BMW and Mercedes-Benz build some of the best luxury SUVs, such as the popular X3, X5, GLC, and GLE. However, regarding reliability, the German brands lag behind one Japanese rival: Lexus. A recent J.D. Power study shows the most reliable luxury SUV isn’t a BMW or Mercedes-Benz. It’s the Lexus RX.
The Lexus RX is the most reliable luxury SUV in a new study
Consumers consider styling, driving dynamics, interior space, comfort, and premium features when shopping for luxury SUVs. However, another crucial factor is reliability. A dependable car will likely last longer and require fewer repairs. It will also help provide optimal performance and safety.
And for luxury SUV reliability, the best choice isn’t a BMW or Mercedes-Benz. It’s the Lexus RX. The midsize crossover earned in the recently released J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). Along with taking the top spot for premium SUVs, the RX tied with the Toyota C-HR for the best reliability among all vehicle types.
Some BMW and Mercedes-Benz models fared well in specific vehicle segments in the VDS. For example, the BMW X2 earned the top spot among subcompact luxury SUVs, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA placed second and the BMW X1 placed third. However, the Lexus RX is the best in overall premium SUV reliability.
The Lexus RX has fewer problems than other SUVs in its segment
Its performance in the 2023 VDS Study earned the Lexus RX the nod for the most reliable luxury SUV. For the study, J.D. Power collected surveys from over 30,000 original owners of 2020 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. The data analytics firm conducted the survey from August through November 2022.
Owners reported issues in 184 problem areas. They include the powertrain, driving experience, exterior, interior, controls, seats, climate system, infotainment, and driving assistance.
The RX had fewer reported problems than any other premium SUV, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz models. As a result, it earned the most reliable luxury SUV honor.
Thanks to Lexus’s reputation for reliability, the RX’s win isn’t surprising. J.D. Power also named Lexus the most reliable car brand. The data analytics firm awarded other Lexus models, too. They include the NX, earning the top spot for compact luxury SUV reliability. Also, the GX placed second behind the RX in the midsize premium SUV segment.
The 2023 RX received a much-needed redesign
Boasting a superb redesign, the Lexus RX is even better for the 2023 model year. Built on the new Global Architecture-K platform, the SUV touts a stylish exterior with a revamped grille and lighting elements. Also, thanks to the new platform, the fifth-generation model is lighter while providing more storage space and rear legroom. Additionally, the cabin is more modern, featuring a sleek new center console and a larger 14.0-inch touchscreen.
On the performance front, the redesigned RX offers a new engine lineup. The most potent is the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid system in the 500h F Sport Performance trim. It delivers 367 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, helping the 500h F Sport accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. There’s also the first-ever 450h+ plug-in hybrid model, achieving an estimated fuel economy of 84 MPGe combined.
The Lexus RX is a luxury SUV with high-level reliability. It’s the most reliable luxury SUV in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, beating models from all other automakers, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
