Toyota has the ever-popular midsize SUV segment pretty well covered. Even though the 2023 Toyota 4Runner is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs, it managed to come dead last in recent rankings. Toyota has established itself as a brand associated with durability and longevity, and the 4Runner is a prime example of its commitment to producing rugged vehicles. In contrast, the Kia Telluride has gained recognition for its appealing design and comfort but falls short regarding overall reliability.

What is the most reliable midsize SUV for 2023?

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was one of the most reliable midsize SUVs for this year, but that didn’t help its overall standing in the segment. When U.S. News ranked all 23 midsize SUVs on the market, somehow, the 2023 4Runner came in last. Why would a well-loved vehicle like the 4Runner fall so far behind? Nothing has changed with this SUV, but perhaps that is part of the problem.

The 2023 4Runner continues the fifth generation of the SUV, which is mostly unchanged. Toyota opted for a 40th Anniversary edition for this year instead of a redesign, which has left the 4Runner looking the same as it did back in 2009 (except for the stripes). Even still, the 2023 4Runner is the most reliable SUV in the segment, with a quality and reliability score of 87.

The same 270-horsepower V6 engine powers every trim level of the Toyota 4Runner. It isn’t the most exciting or powerful option, but it does the job without issue. This antiquated engine also only gets 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Most modern vehicles get three to four miles per gallon more than that.

How reliable is the best midsize SUV of 2023?

Since hitting the market a few years back, the 2023 Kia Telluride has proven to be one of the best midsize SUVs. It has plenty of space inside for larger families, with seating for seven or eight passengers. Kia equipped the Telluride with the latest technology and features without increasing the price exponentially.

Kia has come a long way with reliability over the years, but the Telluride doesn’t come close to the reliability of the Toyota 4Runner. J.D. Power gave the 2023 Telluride a reliability score of 85 out of 100, which is pretty good. Even though very little separates the Telluride and the 4Runner, these SUVs could not be further apart in the midsize SUV rankings.

When it comes down to it, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner fell short in many of the tested areas. This includes the overall critic’s rating, performance, interior, and safety. Quality and reliability were also factored in. However, that hasn’t stopped it from remaining one of the best sellers for the brand.

How does the reliability of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner compare to other SUVs?

While the 2023 Toyota 4Runner is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs, calling it the worst SUV in the segment seems misguided. The 2023 Nissan Murano and the 2023 Dodge Durango are better options? That hardly seems fair. The Toyota 4Runner has long been renowned for its unwavering reliability, and the 2023 model continues this tradition with its impressive track record. Although Kia has made significant strides in enhancing its vehicle’s quality, it still has some ground to cover to match Toyota’s established reputation.

Even though the 4Runner and the Telluride are in the same segment, these two SUVs don’t share much in common. Kia’s midsize SUV is innovative and fairly cutting edge, using all of the latest and greatest tech. Toyota’s 4Runner relies on the same technology that is probably familiar to most drivers, with nothing really cutting-edge about it. That hasn’t stopped the sales from rolling in.

For now, it seems being the most reliable midsize SUV is more important than being the best in the segment. In terms of long-term ownership costs, the Toyota 4Runner has proven to be more affordable due to its reliability. The lower frequency of repairs and maintenance requirements translates into fewer unexpected expenses for owners. This advantage further solidifies the 4Runner’s reputation as a reliable midsize SUV option.