Key Takeaways
- These used SUVs all cost substantially less than brand-new versions, while promising excellent reliability.
- Lexus and Toyota rank highest for SUV reliability for luxury and mass-market brands, respectively.
- Chevrolet also put in a strong showing, with three of its SUVs topping their segments for reliability.
When considering an SUV on the secondhand market, many factors should be considered. From price range to safety ratings, there's a lot to consider, and most will consider reliability ratings to be a key factor in the purchasing decision. To help you along in your journey, we've assembled the most reliable SUVs to buy in 2024. For this write-up, the reliability data for 2021 SUVs was cited from the JD Power 2024 US Vehicle Dependability Study, released in early 2024. This study ranks various models on reliability and customer satisfaction, based on the number of problems per vehicle over the first three years of ownership. It helps buyers assess what well-used SUVs should be considered when it comes to overall reliability. We've also added our own BuzzScore, based on our extensive experience with each model.
Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here.
Toyota 4Runner
Given Toyota's long track record of delivering some of the most reliable vehicles available on the market, new and used, it's no surprise that one of the highest-rated SUVs here is a Toyota - specifically the 4Runner. This SUV shares a lot of engineering and parts with the equally popular Tacoma pickup truck. It also continues the traditional combination of a body-on-frame construction chassis with a potent six-cylinder engine used by this iteration of the 4Runner, since its introduction in the 2010 model year. 2021 models benefit from updated LED front headlights, as well as several upgrades to the off-road focused 'TRD Pro' model. The 4Runner has great resale values, but you can still save over $6,000 by purchasing a used example. According to Kelley Blue Book, the base fair purchase price for the 2021 4Runner is $33,156. The 4Runner isn't the most comfortable or advanced vehicle around, but if you're wondering what the best used SUV to buy is for sheer dependability, it's hard to beat.
2021 Toyota 4Runner
7.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $36,765
- Engine
- 4.0L V6 Gas
- Horsepower
- 270 hp
- Fuel Economy
- 16/19 MPG
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Lexus RX
Toyota's luxury division, Lexus, also ranks as one of the highest-rated brands when it comes to customer satisfaction and overall reliability. According to JD Power, the Lexus RX "ranks highest overall in vehicle dependability for a second consecutive year, with a score of 135 PP100." The Lexus RX continues to represent the brand highly as one of the best used SUVs to buy in today's market. Either a powerful yet smooth 3.5L naturally-aspirated V6 engine, as well as a hybrid powertrain that pairs the V6 with two electric motors, can be chosen. The option for two- and third-row models also continues for 2021 models. If a luxurious, comfortable SUV that delivers high customer satisfaction and gas mileage is what you are looking for, the Lexus RX is an excellent candidate.
2021 Lexus RX
8.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $45,220
- Engine
- 3.5L V6 Gas
- Horsepower
- 295 hp
- Fuel Economy
- 20/27 MPG
Lexus NX
Another member of the Lexus SUV family, the NX ranks high in reliability and customer satisfaction, being named the 'Best Compact Premium SUV' in the study. The NX competes against rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and BMW X1 within the high-end crossover segment. The NX can be powered by either a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder or a hybrid powertrain, sending power to the front or all four wheels, depending on the model chosen. The NX can only seat five occupants but still provides ample interior space inside for cargo and passengers. 2021 Lexus NX models feature subtle changes, namely power-folding exterior mirrors and driver assists as standard across all grades - from the entry-level NX to the sporty F Sport and top-end Luxury models.
2021 Lexus NX
8.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $37,610
- Engine
- 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Fuel Economy
- 22/28 MPG
Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is one of the top-rated used SUV choices for reliability, ranked as the 'Best Large SUV'. The Tahoe is positioned below the larger Suburban SUV. This iteration of the Tahoe brings an all-new exterior and interior design, along with continuing to offer third-row seating for maximum passenger capacity. In addition to a roomier cabin for passengers and cargo, the 2021 Tahoe features, for the first time, an independent rear suspension setup that enables a more stable, comfort-oriented ride.
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On top of this, 2021 Tahoes feature more driver -ssistance aids onboard, and the option of a 3.0L turbodiesel six-cylinder engine alongside its gas-powered 5.3L and 6.2L naturally-aspirated V8 counterparts.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $49,600
- Engine
- 5.3L V8 Gas
- Horsepower
- 355 hp
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Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a midsize crossover SUV from GM’s brand that offers ample cargo space and third-row seating at an affordable price point. It also makes this list as one of the best-value SUVs to buy used when it comes to good reliability ratings. 2021 Traverse models feature no significant changes compared to the preceding 2020 models, carrying over the same exterior styling, interior features, and trim models from the 2020 model year. It was also named a 2021 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, making the 2021 Traverse one of the safest used SUVs money can buy.
2021 Chevrolet Traverse
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $29,800
- Engine
- 3.6L V6 Gas
- Horsepower
- 310 hp
Chevrolet Equinox
Another Chevrolet SUV makes this list as one of the best used SUVs for the money - being the highest ranked 'Best Compact SUV' in the 2024 study. The Chevrolet Equinox is a crossover that served as one of the first early examples of a crossover model in the early 2000s, combining the tall driving position and space of an SUV with the engine size and gas mileage of a hatchback. Similar to other Chevrolet SUVs for this model year, no major changes are made to 2021 models - though for the Equinox, the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is dropped from the lineup. The 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder unit remains the sole engine option across all Equinox models, from the Equinox L to the Premier.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox
7.5/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $23,800
- Engine
- 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 170 hp
Buick Encore
Coming from GM's luxury brand, Buick, the Encore is another crossover that is also a good used SUV in this market. Serving as the upmarket twin of another GM crossover SUV, the Chevrolet Trax, the Buick Encore wraps this entry-level SUV in a more upmarket package, bearing the Buick front grille design. 2021 Encores no longer feature the 153-hp variant of the 1.4L four-cylinder unit made available with previous model years. All Encore trims feature a 138-hp variant of this four-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and sending all power to either the front or all four wheels.
2021 Buick Encore
7.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $23,200
- Engine
- 1.4L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 138 hp
- Fuel Economy
- 24/32 MPG
BMW X6
The 2021 BMW X6 also makes this list among the best used crossover SUVs to buy. The German brand's 'Sports Activity Coupe' (SAC) combines coupe-inspired styling with the space and practicality of a traditional midsize SUV. 2021 X6 models feature some revised optional extras, as well as new standard features. Most significantly, all models now feature Android Auto functionality as standard alongside previously available Apple CarPlay. Powertrain-wise, the inline-six-cylinder engine is now paired with a hybrid system; the gas twin-turbocharged V8 engine continues to be offered by X6 M50i models. To satisfy enthusiasts who desire some additional touches from BMW's M Division, the even more powerful X6 M is a separate model to look into.
2021 BMW X6
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $65,050
- Engine
- 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 Gas
- Horsepower
- 335 hp
BMW X1
Another BMW makes this list among the best value SUVs to buy when it comes to reliability. Considered the 'Best Small Premium SUV' in the study is the BMW X1. The X1 serves as the entry-level model within BMW's SUV and crossover model lineup, targeting upmarket models like the Audi Q3. The X1 is only available with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Power can be sent to the front wheels or all four via BMW's xDrive all-wheel -rive system. The 2021 X1s also benefit from the addition of SiriusXM Satellite Radio as standard. LED fog lamps are no longer included as part of the Convenience or Premium equipment packages, and sport seats can only be equipped if the optional M Sport pack is selected.
2021 BMW X1
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
- Base MSRP
- $35,400
- Engine
- 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 228 hp
Summary
From the findings of the J.D Power 2024 US Vehicle Dependability Study, there is no shortage of top-rated used SUVs to buy if you are in the market for one. Multiple examples of good used SUVs or crossovers are available that report good reliability and customer satisfaction ratings. Japanese models are still among the best used SUVs for the money, with the Toyota 4Runner and Lexus RX/NX making the list. Those targeting a German offering should aim for the BMW X1 or X6. If an American SUV that delivers good reliability is what buyers are targeting, the Chevrolet Tahoe or Traverse are good examples.
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