If asked which vehicle is the most reliable compact SUV, most would answer with either the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. You might get differing answers, but most would consider one of these two models at the very top of the reliability lists of compact SUVs. Would it surprise you to learn that the most reliable compact SUV isn’t either of these two vehicles?

What is the most reliable compact SUV?

According to RepairPal, the most reliable compact SUV is the Subaru Crosstrek. This ranking is based on RepairPal’s three qualifying factors of cost, frequency, and severity of annual repair and maintenance. The top ten most reliable compact SUVs from RepairPal are:

• Subaru Crosstrek
• Honda CR-V
• Toyota RAV4
• Nissan Rogue Select
• Hyundai Tucson
• Kia Sportage
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Jeep Cherokee
• Mazda Tribute

The current RepairPal reliability rankings consider models covering the 2010-2019 model years, giving us a true measure of reliability instead of predictions based on expectations of new models.

What is the cost difference of annual maintenance and repairs for the top ten compact SUVs?

The annual costs expected for each of the top ten, according to RepairPal is:

• Subaru Crosstrek – $492
• Honda CR-V – $407
• Toyota RAV4 – $429
• Nissan Rogue Select – $436
• Hyundai Tucson – $426
• Kia Sportage – $462
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – $498
• Mitsubishi Outlander – $519
• Jeep Cherokee – $520
• Mazda Tribute – $523

The Subaru Crosstrek and Honda CR-V are the only compact SUVs to receive scores of 4.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal.

Is there something strange about the Subaru Crosstrek’s reliability rating?

The Subaru Crosstrek Reliability rating shows something unexpected. The average annual cost of maintenance and repairs of this compact SUV is higher than the five next models on the list. That seems odd and raises a red flag until we dig a little further.

Although the cost is higher for the Crosstrek than the next five models, the frequency of unscheduled repairs for this Subaru SUV is 0.1 times per year. The average for the compact SUV class is 0.3 times per year. By comparison, the Honda CR-V has a frequency rating of 0.3, and the Toyota RAV4’s frequency rating is 0.26.

Going a step further, the probability that Subaru Crosstrek unscheduled repairs are severe is 7% compared to 11% for the compact SUV class. Turning to the Honda CR-V, we find a severity rating of 9%, while the Toyota RAV4 has a severity rating of 10%.

Does a Subaru Crosstrek hold its value?

Kelley Blue Book ranks the Subaru Crosstrek as the highest SUV in its class for resale value. This SUV appeals to consumers with its excellent package of features, impressive versatility, safety features, efficiency, and standard AWD. Every Crosstrek includes Symmetrical AWD, which is one of the most desirable features offered by Subaru.

Is the Subaru Crosstrek a good compact SUV?

The Subaru Crosstrek has a lot going for it. This crossover is the most reliable compact SUV. It maintains an excellent resale value, and it’s easy to drive and enjoy. The benefits of standard AWD make this Subaru a trustworthy crossover when you’re faced with tough weather or difficult terrain.

You might be surprised that the most reliable compact SUV isn’t a Toyota or a Honda, but it’s hard to argue against the Subaru Crosstrek and its reliability rating.

Next, check out some of the best compact SUVs to own after five years, or learn more about the Subaru Crosstrek in this video below:

This article was updated on 2/27/2023.