Getting a good start to the year could involve getting the right family SUV. But some three-row SUVs might not be as reliable as you think. The option with the highest rating actually crushes rivals from Toyota and Honda. 

What is the most reliable SUV for 2026? 

Drum roll, please! The most reliable three-row SUV is currently the Kia Telluride. But things could change as updated scores for 2026 models come in. 

The 2026 Kia Telluride has a reliability ranking of 85 out of 100 from J.D.Power. That’s an above-average score. Scores between 70 and 80 are average, while anything between 81 and 90 is above average. Rankings between 91 and 100 are best. 

Also, the rankings are based on driver feedback. Surveys are sent to owners, allowing them to report any problems they may have faced, from chipping paint to total engine failure. 

Now, the Toyota Grand Highlander is a serious Telluride rival. But it earned a score of 84, falling one point short of the Telluride. You may expect the Toyota 4Runner to be more reliable, but it just launched a new generation. It’s too new to judge. 

Next, the Honda Pilot barely made it to the above average category with a score of 81. The Ford Explorer falls a bit further behind the pack with a score of 77. 

Also, the Chevrolet Traverse represents an 83. The Hyundai Palisade is basically the Telluride’s slightly fancier twin, and it earned an 84. 

While the difference between one and three points probably doesn’t make a significant difference, the Telluride is still your most reliable bet at the moment.