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Are you ready for a plot twist? Options like the Toyota RAV4 have a reputation for reliability, but some SUVs don’t live up to their name. The most reliable compact SUV from the past five years is actually the Buick Encore. 

The Buick Encore is the most reliable compact SUV from the past 5 years

Surprise, according to J.D.Power, the Toyota RAV4 isn’t the most reliable compact SUV from the past five years. It actually doesn’t come close to the top SUV, which is the Buick Encore. 

J.D.Power performed a dependability study based on the driver feedback after they’ve owned their car for three years. 

It sends a survey out to drivers, allowing them to report any problems or frustrations they may have faced. The survey covers 184 potential trouble spots including the paint, interior, comfort, build quality, performance, safety features, and more. 

The 2024 Buick Encore near garages
2024 Buick Encore | Buick

During the past five years, the Buick Encore was rated as the most reliable compact SUV in 2020, 2022, and 2024. Other winners include the Volkswagen Tiguan in 2019, the Kia Sportage in 2021, and the Toyota C-HR. 

Because this study is based on vehicles that are three years old, the winning Encore models are from 2017, 2019, and 2021. Keep this in mind if you’re in the market for a reliable used SUV. 

Also, the 2024 Encore is holding up its dependable reputation. J.D.Power gave it a reliability rating of 87 out of 100, which is great. 

Scores between 70 and 80 are average, anything between 81 and 90 is above average, and anything between 91 and 100 is best. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 has a reliability rating of 76! So, the Encore is nine points ahead. 

An average Buick Encore model is expected to last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, then your Encore could provide about 17 miles of service on the road. But remember, the key to longevity is regular care and proper maintenance.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.