It’s no surprise that the most reliable new cars come from the most reliable car brands. Automakers based in Asia have the highest predicted reliability, with sedans and hybrids leading the way. So, what are the best-of-the-best brands, and which of their new cars are the most reliable?

What are the most reliable car brands?

Consumer Reports, a “nonprofit research, testing, and consumer advocacy organization,” recently released its Annual Auto Reliability data revealing the most reliable automakers. The report notes that seven of the top 10 most reliable brands have roots in Asia. The top 10 most reliable automakers are: 

1. Toyota
2. Lexus
3. BMW
4. Mazda
5. Honda
6. Audi
7. Subaru
8. Acura
9. Kia
10. Lincoln

Toyota and Lexus are perennial favorites for the top spots of any reliability rankings. BMW gained 10 places over last year’s rankings to achieve its first No. 3 finish in Consumer Reports’ reliability rankings. Mazda fell two spots from last year to finish at No. 4, and Honda maintained its No. 5 rank. 

Audi’s mostly average lineup puts it in at No. 6. Subaru follows closely behind at No. 7. Electrical, electronics, and brake issues dropped Acura to No. 8. At the same time, Kia gained six places to finish at No. 9. Lincoln rose 14 places from last year to finish at No. 10, earning it “Most Improved Brand” honors and being the only domestic car brand in the top 10. 

What are the most reliable new cars?

Toyota

Consumer Reports says the Toyota Corolla Hybrid is the most reliable model in its report. Other Toyota models like the Corolla Cross, Prius, and the traditional gas-powered Corolla feature high predicted reliability, while the RAV4 Prime’s fueling issues dropped it down a notch. 

On the other hand, the Tundra is the least reliable Toyota model, primarily “due to leaks and problems with body hardware, paint, and trim.”

Lexus

Lexus models consistently exhibit high levels of reliability. The Lexus GX is the automaker’s most reliable offering thanks to its consistent quality, that’s changed little since 2010. Although it lacks the GX’s consistency, the newly redesigned Lexus NX Hybrid is “outstanding,” according to Consumer Reports. 

BMW

All BMW models rank average or better. The 3- and 4-series models rose to above-average reliability from last year. However, the X3, X5, X7, and 5-series models hold an average rank, held back by issues with display screen electronics and climate control systems. 

Mazda

Consumer Reports credits Mazda’s “conservative approach to redesigning models” with its consistent reliability year after year. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is Mazda’s most reliable model, followed closely by the CX-5 and CX-9 SUVs. However, some Mazda CX-30 owners report problems with the engine’s computer. 

Honda

Most Honda models received above-average reliability rankings, including the Passport, Accord, Accord Hybrid, and Civic. The top Honda entrants ranked just above the Odyssey minivan and Ridgeline truck, as problems with display screen electronics reportedly held these models back. 

Why are these brands and cars the most reliable?

Consistent quality is the key. Any car can experience a mechanical failure regardless of which automaker produced it. Yet, Consumer Reports utilizes owner surveys to look at trends over thousands of vehicles from each brand. Overall, the makes and models with the highest rankings had the fewest complaints regarding reliability, and the repair costs remained low.