10 Best Reliable Cars for 2026
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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If you’re shopping for a new car this year, reliability and affordability might be two of your top criteria. But which car models are the most reliable?
In this article, we’ll explore the ten best reliable car options for 2026, and why they might be a good fit if you’re in the market for an upgrade to your vehicle.
1. Toyota Camry
- Average Price: $34,952
Toyota is one of the most reliable brands on the market. In fact, it took the top slot for brand reliability in a recent Consumer Reports survey. Similarly, the Camry is the highest-ranked midsize car in a recent JD Power’s 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study.
2. Toyota Prius
- Average Price: $35,718
The Toyota Prius is one of the most reliable plug-in hybrids, with up to 57 mpg. This makes it a great vehicle for daily driving, long commutes and distant traveling. There are no major changes in the pipeline for the 2026 model.
3. Toyota Corolla
- Average Price: $25,560
It should come as no surprise that the Toyota Corolla also made the list of most reliable cars for 2026. The changes are minimal for 2026, meaning fewer surprises for buyers looking for a dependable, affordable vehicle.
4. Subaru Forester
- Average Price: $39,527
The next brand on Consumer Reports’ reliability list is Subaru. The Forester excels in reliability and safety features, with EyeSight driver-assist technology and all-wheel drive. The year 2025 was the first that the Forester had a hybrid option. For its 2026 lineup, the Forester is adding a Wilderness off-road model for adventurers.
5. Subaru Impreza
- Average Price: $27,003
Since the Subaru brand ranked second on Consumer Reports’ reliability list, the Impreza also made their top ten list. The Impreza hatchback is smaller than the Forester, but it packs a big punch in its all-wheel drive reliability.
6. Lexus NX
- Average Price: $50,896
Third on Consumer Reports’ reliability brand list is Lexus. This is not surprising given Lexus is a sister company of Toyota. The NX is a perfect vehicle if you want a luxurious ride without sacrificing quality.
7. Lexus RX
- Average Price: $59,257
If you’re looking for a little more space, the Lexus RX might be your next purchase. The RX was Lexus’ first crossover SUV. The RX was last redesigned in 2023, but continues to exceed reliability ratings.
8. Honda HR-V
- Average Price: $30,495
Honda ranked fourth on Consumer Reports’ brand reliability list. Even though the HR-V isn’t as old as many of Honda’s other models, it still comes with the same reliability standards.
9. Kia Sorento Hybrid
- Average Price: $40,183
While the Kia brand itself ranked tenth on Consumer Reports’ list, the Sorento Hybrid has a strong reliability track record. A separate Consumer Reports study listed the Kia Sorento Hybrid as the most reliable three-row SUV.
10. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
- Average Price: $25,819
Last up is the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid. The Elantra Hybrid has a fuel economy of up to 54 miles per gallon, which is ideal for daily commutes. Additionally, it has a solid warranty to cover any unusual defects.
Editor’s note: All average car prices were sourced from CarEdge.com on Jan. 10, 2026 and subject to change.
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