The ranking of automobile brands Consumer Reports pour 2024 disrupted habits. For the first time, Subaru grabs first place, overtaking giants like Toyota et Lexus. This news could well give pause to those looking for a solid and reliable vehicle.
What is behind this impressive report?
This famous report is based on a careful analysis of more than 300 000 vehicles sold between 2000 et 2025whether cars, trucks or SUVs. We evaluate everything: owner satisfaction, safety, expected reliability and road tests. Every detail is scrutinized to uncover potential problems in the short or long term. This meticulous process ensures an overview of brand performance.
Famous names like Lincoln, Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Land Rover, Fiat, Jaguar, Lucid, Maserati, Polestaret Ram are not included in the report due to lack of “sufficient data” on at least two current models. Their absence clearly shows the importance of a complete database for a correct evaluation.
The secret of Subaru's success
So why does Subaru stand out? No need for flashy new technologies here: they rely on their proven parts that they have been using for several years. Steven Elek, an expert at Consumer Reports, explains that this method reduces unforeseen mechanical risks. Reliability is judged based on members' feedback regarding glitches encountered over the past year, covering up to twenty types of possible problems (from minor hassles to major engine failures).
Subaru displays a good average reliability score at 68 out of 100beating Lexus with its 65 points and Toyota with its 62 points. Some Toyota models like the Tacoma, Tundra and bZ4X didn't perform as well as expected.
Electrics: still a risky bet?
With the rise of electric vehicles this year, you might think that their reliability has taken off… Well no! Take the Subaru Solterra EV (developed with Toyota): its rating is below average, proving that this sector is not yet ready.
What future for American brands?
On the American side, some brands struggle a little in terms of reliability. Jeep and GMC have a concerning average score of only 33while Cadillac does worse with a modest score of 27. Rivian closes the ranking with a meager score of 14.
But all is not dark for them: the Ford Mustang shines with its above-average performance. Same for the Chevrolet Trailblazer and the Ford Escape which are doing much better than expected. Other models like the Buick Encore GX, Cadillac XT5, Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Bronco achieve a respectable average score.
A close battle among the big names
In this global ranking of brands, Subaru managed to overtake BMW to take the lead. BMW, Porsche and Honda then follow in this prestigious top five. Audi caused a sensation by moving from twelfth to sixth place while Infiniti now reached tenth position.
These findings serve as a reminder of the importance of carefully reviewing these independent reports before purchasing a new or used car. Reliability greatly influences your user experience but also how much you can resell your car later. While Subaru continues to impress with its prudent and consistent engineering strategy, it remains to be seen how its competitors will react to this adversary who has become the undisputed leader in the automobile market in terms of reliability!
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