The prices of new vehicles have been rising significantly in recent years. The option of a used car is therefore essential for many households. The annual ranking of the best brands by the American magazine Consumer Reports allows us to see things more clearly.
This year again, Japanese manufacturers are at the top of the ranking. The ranking is based on a wide range of reliability data to paint a picture of vehicles aged 5 to 10 years, a range that reflects the average age of vehicles in Quebec, which was 8.2 years, according to a report by HEC Montréal.
Lexus, Toyota and Mazda thus monopolize the first three places in the ranking, followed by Acura and Honda in fourth and fifth positions. Buick can boast of being the only American brand to rank in the top 10while BMW (7e) and Mercedes-Benz (10e) are the only German brands to achieve this.
The three worst manufacturers for the reliability of their used vehicles are Tesla (24e), Dodge (25e) and Chrysler (26e). Note, however, that it is necessary to target models individually to properly assess their general reliability, but such a classification has the advantage of allowing research to be directed towards certain manufacturers.
Various models recommended
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENERAL MOTORS
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze is among the affordable used models recommended by Consumer Reports.
Compared to some more specific models, the choices of Consumer Reports are beyond the scope of this ranking. Thus, among affordable compacts (less than US$10,000), the American media recommends the Chevrolet Cruze from the 2017 model year for all its qualities as well as its reliability. Among compacts under US$15,000, it is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra that receives accolades.
The 2018 Honda HR-V (under $15,000 USD) and the 2021 Kia Sportage (under $20,000 USD) are recommended among affordable SUVs. The 2021 Toyota Corolla and 2018 Toyota RAV4 (under $20,000 USD) are, unsurprisingly, the most highly recommended affordable hybrid models. Finally, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 gets a pat on the back from Consumer Reports for the three-row SUV segment under $20,000. An enlightening portrait, presenting contenders that one would not naturally think of.