Most Reliable Midsize SUV Isn’t a Toyota or Honda
Saying that the most reliable midsize SUV doesn’t come from either the Toyota or Honda brands is automotive blasphemy. How dare anyone say such a thing? What happens when expert data and opinion back this claim? Does that change the mindset and allow other brands into consideration? Maybe, maybe not.
The most reliable midsize SUV is the 2023 Nissan Murano
Among midsize SUVs, the 2023 Murano is the only model to achieve a score of 90/100 for reliability from J.D. Power. It is the only midsize SUV to achieve this score, which puts it in the Excellent category for J.D. Power.
This Nissan SUV uses an impressive V6 engine with 260 horsepower and can be had in either FWD or AWD. The acceleration is good, the ride quality will impress you, and you’ll find a relatively quiet cabin in the Nissan Murano. Nissan provides enough room for five people in the Murano while showcasing a standard 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.
How are J.D. Power’s reliability scores determined?
J.D. Power uses three major automotive studies to determine the most reliable vehicles, including midsize SUVs. These studies are:
- Initial Quality Study (IQS)
- Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)
- Automotive Performance Execution and Layout Study (APEAL)
Using the studies, J.D. Power scores vehicles for predicted reliability during each model year.
What are the top ten most reliable midsize SUVs?
We know the 2023 Nissan Murano is on top, but where do we see other midsize SUVs? Here are the top ten and the scores from J.D. Power:
- Nissan Murano – 90/100
- Toyota 4Runner – 87/100
- Chevrolet Blazer – 86/100
- GMC Acadia – 85/100
- Kia Telluride – 85/100
- Hyundai Palisade – 84/100
- Ford Explorer – 83/100
- Honda Passport – 83/100
- Kia Sorento – 83/100
- Chevrolet Traverse – 83/100
Does another expert offer a different opinion?
When we turn to iSeeCars, the information is completely different. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner and Honda Pilot are the two most reliable midsize SUVs. The Nissan Murano is ninth on this list.
The top ten most reliable midsize SUVs for 2023 and their scores from iSeeCars are:
- Toyota 4Runner – 8.8/10
- Honda Pilot – 8.6/10
- Toyota Highlander – 8.5/10
- Hyundai Santa Fe – 8.5/10
- Dodge Durango – 8.5/10
- Ford Explorer – 8.4/10
- Jeep Grand Cherokee – 8.4/10
- Nissan Pathfinder – 8.3/10
- Nissan Murano – 8.2/10
- Ford Edge – 8.2/10
Reliability ratings from iSeeCars are calculated by assessing millions of vehicles to determine long-term durability.
What does the 2023 Toyota 4Runner include?
The most reliable midsize SUVs become an interesting list when the Nissan Murano and Toyota 4Runner make the cut. The 4Runner is an off-road SUV with an old-school feeling capable of handling the toughest terrain. Toyota offers several 4Runner trims, with the TRD Pro being the most off-road-oriented version of this venerable midsize SUV.
Which midsize SUVs should make your shortlist?
If you want the most reliable midsize SUV, these two lists have things as clear as mud. Still, when considering both expert opinions, those models that rank in the top ten for J.D. Power and iSeeCars give you a respectable shortlist. These models are:
- Toyota 4Runner
- Nissan Murano
- Ford Explorer
Surely, when your list is only these three models, you’ll find one that gives you the desired driving experience.
This article was updated on 4/24/2023.
