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There are plenty of reasons to buy a Toyota, but reliability is one of the most important ones. A reliable vehicle won’t need as many repairs, so it can potentially run for decades before it need to be replaced. Brands with a reputation for reliability also typically have higher resale values than their competitors.

In terms of vehicle types, it seems that 3-row SUVs last the longest. Unsurprisingly, according to a recent study, two of the most reliable SUVs are Toyota models. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

The Toyota Sequoia is the most reliable 3-row SUV

iSeeCars tells us the that the average Sequoia might last nearly 297,000 miles. Given its outdated interior and thirsty powertrain, the outgoing generation wasn’t in the best place to compete with its rivals. Fortunately, the Toyota Sequoia got a full redesign for the 2023 model year.

Now it only has a hybrid powertrain capable of 437 hp and promising 22 mpg combined city/highway. More padded surfaces replace some of the cabin’s old plastic parts, and the infotainment screen got a major upgrade.

A silver 2023 Toyota Sienna headlight.
2023 Toyota Sienna | Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Since the Sequoia’s dimensions are the same, it still has a tiny third row. You also only get about 12 cu-ft of storage space with all the seats upright.

Still, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a good value with almost all of its available safety tech as standard equipment. The TRD Pro trim comes ready for off-roading with a locking rear differential, skid plates, and a two-speed transfer case. 4WD can be added to any trim.

The Toyota Land Cruiser isn’t far behind

Land Cruisers kept in good condition can last for over 280,000 miles. The Toyota Land Cruiser is even more well-equipped for adventuring with standard 4WD and a dynamic suspension system. It also has many of the Toyota Sequoia’s optional off-roading features, plus an impressive towing capacity of 8,100 lbs.

The Toyota Land Cruiser also shares the Sequoia’s gas-guzzling 381-hp V8. It only makes 14 mpg combined city/highway. According to Edmunds, the standard six-speed automatic transmission’s behavior can become erratic after too much driving. 

Testers also didn’t like the heaviness of the steering wheel and the Land Cruiser’s excessive body lean. The interior remains quiet and comfortable no matter what kind of terrain lies under the wheels.

The Chevrolet Suburban is another dependable SUV

A Chevy Suburban can last nearly 266,000 miles and offers just as much capability as either of its Toyota rivals. It can tow up to 8,300 lbs with the optional V8 engine, and drivers can buy the Z71 trim if they want the best off-roading performance. The Suburban Z71 gets approximately 10 in of ground clearance with the optional air suspension, more than either the Sequoia or Land Cruiser.

The Suburban’s most powerful V8 is capable of 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The base V8 is still a great daily driver with 355 hp on tap. Chevy also offers a 277-hp turbo-diesel that’s rated for up to 23 mpg combined.

Up to nine riders can fit inside, and the third row is actually decently accommodating for adults. Fold that row down and you get over 94 cu-ft of cargo space. With both rows flat, the Chevy Suburban has almost 145 cu-ft worth of storage room.

Here’s why SUVs and trucks might be so reliable

In addition to 3-row SUVs, some trucks like the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma can last well beyond 200,000 miles. iSeeCars attributes this to the enhanced capability that trucks possess.

Because many full-size trucks can tow upwards of 10,000 lbs, they’re manufactured to be more durable than your average sedan. Similarly, 3-row SUVs are very reliable because they must be built to safely accommodate extra amounts of luggage and more passengers.

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