The Most Reliable SUV Isn’t a Toyota or Honda
Reliability is a crucial factor when choosing an SUV. Reliable vehicles likely last longer, perform better, need fewer repairs, and won’t leave you stranded. Regarding reliability, two of the best automakers are Toyota and Honda. However, the most reliable SUV isn’t a Toyota or Honda model. It’s a Lexus luxury SUV, the 2023 Lexus GX. Though Toyota owns Lexus, it’s a separate brand exclusively offering luxury models.
Why is the 2023 Lexus GX the most reliable SUV?
The 2023 Lexus GX is the most reliable new SUV on a recent U.S. News list. The site releases an annual roundup of the most reliable SUVs, and the GX tops this year’s lineup.
Here is the complete list of the 10 most reliable SUVs of 2023:
- 2023 Lexus GX
- 2023 GMC Terrain
- 2023 Jeep Wrangler
- 2023 Chevrolet Blazer
- 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer
- 2023 Toyota 4Runner
- 2023 Ford Bronco Sport
- 2023 Kia Soul
- 2023 Kia Sportage
- 2023 Lincoln Nautilus
- 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid
- 2023 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2023 Nissan Murano
- 2023 Buick Encore GX
U.S. News bases its rankings on J.D. Power’s reliability scores. They comprise initial owner feedback with longer-term ownership impressions.
Beyond the U.S. News rankings and J.D. Power scores, we dug deeper into the Lexus GX to learn more about its reliability.
One indicator of a vehicle’s reliability is its recalls. And so far, neither the 2022 nor the 2023 model has any recalls filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition, the 2023 GX has no investigations or owner complaints reported to the NHTSA. The agency has recorded three minor complaints from 2022 GX owners, but none involve reliability issues.
Interestingly, RepairPal gives the 2023 Lexus GX a reliability rating of 3.5/5. That’s above average but not stellar. The site says repairs are more common with the GX than the average vehicle; however, “the issues are less likely to be severe than with other cars. Expect to make slightly more trips to the shop … but for minor issues.” RepairPal also reports that annual 2023 GX repair costs are around $770, which is average.
Lexus beats Toyota and Honda for car brand reliability
In addition to the 2023 Lexus GX being the most reliable SUV, the automaker fares well for car brand dependability. Lexus takes the top spot in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study. Toyota ranks seventh, while Honda is 19th out of 32 brands.
These rankings for Lexus, Toyota, and Honda are based on information from owners of 2020 models. The study analyzes how these vehicles perform regarding quality, component replacement, and appeal. And Lexus vehicles were found to have the fewest problems.
“The 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from 30,062 original owners of 2020 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership,” J.D. Power says. “The study was fielded from August through November 2022.”
What’s new for the 2023 Lexus GX?
The 2023 Lexus GX luxury SUV is primarily a carryover model, with only minor changes for the latest model year. That includes a new Eminent White Pearl exterior paint color option. Also, the Black Line Special Edition trim has numerous upgrades, including a 360-degree camera, gray leatherette seating, and black exterior accents. Additionally, the Luxury trim now comes standard with a Mark Levinson sound system.
The 2023 Lexus GX is an SUV with high-level reliability. It tops all others on U.S. News’ list of the most reliable SUVs, including Toyota and Honda models.
