The Most Reliable Used Car in 2026 Isn’t a Toyota or Honda
When experts rank automakers by evaluating their entire lineups, Japanese brands usually sweep the top spots. Still, some Detroit-built models stand out for reliability. When U.S. News ranked every used car shoppers can buy in 2026, it crowned the Chevrolet Sonic the most reliable option. The subcompact also earned top honors as the best bargain on the used market.
How reliability rankings tell two different stories
Every year, Consumer Reports surveys vehicle owners about recent problems with cars ranging from zero to 25 years old. This year, the organization received about 380,000 responses. It used that data to rank dozens of automakers for predicted reliability across their entire 2026 lineups. Here are the top seven:
- Toyota (66/100)
- Subaru (63/100)
- Lexus (60/100)
- Honda (59/100)
- BMW (58/100)
- Nissan (57/100)
- Acura (54/100)
As expected, Japanese automakers again dominated the rankings. That made U.S. News’ used-car results more surprising. The outlet ranked the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic first overall. The model earned a reliability score of 93/100. Its total cost of ownership scored an impressive 8.6/10.
How the Chevy Sonic earned a #1 reliability ranking
U.S. News noted that the Sonic tied with the Nissan Maxima sedan, which also earned a 93/100 reliability score. However, the Sonic took the top spot because of its lower operating costs. When repairs are needed, owners typically pay less than they would for most vehicles.
The result should not be a total shock. General Motors outperformed every other Detroit automaker in Consumer Reports’ reliability rankings. Buick ranked seventh overall. Chevrolet placed 17th, while Cadillac came in at 18th.
Savvy buyers may want to extend a Chevrolet Sonic’s factory coverage. U.S. News explained, “If it’s six years old or less and with fewer than 75,000 miles, a vehicle qualifies for Chevy’s CPO program, which extends the powertrain warranty to six years or 100,000 miles from the as-new sale date. Free maintenance for two years or 24,000 miles sweetens the deal.”
Check out listings for used Chevy Sonics near you.
The Nissan Maxima is an equally reliable alternative
U.S. News also offered a word of caution. “Skip over the base LS to get power windows and cruise control. The rear seats are cramped, like many subcompact cars, and cargo space is limited.”
Buyers wanting more space and a more premium feel could look at the Nissan Maxima instead. “A 2023 Maxima with less than 80,000 miles on the odometer qualifies for a seven-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty with 24/7 roadside assistance during the warranty period.”
