7 Most Reliable Toyota SUVs That Won't Let You Down
If you’re hunting for a dependable SUV that won’t let you down Toyota has got you covered. This brand has built a rock-solid reputation for making some of the most reliable SUVs on the market and for good reason. Whether you're tackling off-road trails or cruising through the city Toyota’s lineup of SUVs offers something for everyone. In this article we’ll dive deep into the 7 most reliable Toyota SUVs and explore what makes each model stand out. We'll also throw in a little humor when pointing out a few quirks each SUV might have because let’s be honest no car is perfect. But with Toyota you’re always getting close.
Toyota Highlander: The Family-Friendly Workhorse
When it comes to midsize SUVs the Toyota Highlander is the go-to choice for many families. It's roomy seats up to eight people and comes with a robust V6 engine that’s got plenty of power. You also get great fuel efficiency for its class so your wallet won’t be crying every time you fill up at the pump. The Highlander’s reputation for reliability is off the charts—just ask any of the millions of owners who swear by it.
Key Features:
- Engine Options: 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid or 3.5L V6
- Fuel Efficiency: Up to 36 mpg combined with hybrid
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard
- Cargo Space: Up to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded
Pros:
- Reliable Performance: The Highlander is like your dependable friend who always shows up on time and never flakes.
- Hybrid Option: Saving the environment and saving on gas too? Win-win.
- Loaded with Safety Features: Keeps you and your family safe without any fuss.
- Third Row: Great for growing families who need that extra space.
Cons:
- Tight Third Row: The third row is a bit like a discount airline seat—you can fit but it’s not ideal for long journeys. But hey at least you’re going somewhere!
- Pricey Top Trims: If you want all the bells and whistles you’ll need deep pockets. But can you really put a price on heated steering wheels?
Toyota RAV4: The Best-Seller for a Reason
If there’s one Toyota SUV that seems to be everywhere it's the RAV4. This compact SUV is the perfect mix of size performance and reliability. It’s like the avocado toast of SUVs—trendy versatile and really satisfying. With excellent fuel efficiency and a smooth ride the RAV4 appeals to just about everyone.
Key Features:
- Engine Options: 2.5L 4-cylinder or Hybrid
- Fuel Efficiency: Up to 41 mpg combined with Hybrid
- Cargo Space: Up to 69.8 cubic feet
- Infotainment: Standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Pros:
- Fuel Efficiency Champion: You’ll feel like you’re saving the planet one less gas station stop at a time.
- Comfortable Ride: Like driving on a cloud but without the fluff.
- Advanced Safety Features: Keeps you safe like a bubble wrap—without looking silly.
- Spacious Cargo Area: Perfect for those “one more thing” kind of trips.
Cons:
- Noisy Engine: The engine sounds a bit like it’s having an existential crisis. But it gets the job done!
- Base Model is Basic: The base model is pretty no-frills. But it’s reliable like a peanut butter sandwich—simple but always satisfying.
Toyota 4Runner: The Off-Road Legend
For the adventurers out there the Toyota 4Runner is a dream come true. It’s rugged built like a tank and ready to take you just about anywhere. This SUV is practically begging you to get it dirty. If you love off-roading and need something that can handle all the rough stuff the 4Runner is your best friend.
Key Features:
- Engine: 4.0L V6
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5000 lbs
- Off-Road Capability: Crawl Control Multi-Terrain Select
- Interior: Available with premium leather and all the creature comforts
Pros:
- Off-Road Ready: With a 4Runner you’re not just driving—you’re conquering.
- Durable Interior: Built for muddy boots and spilled snacks.
- Impressive Towing: Tow your camper boat or maybe just your friends’ poorly packed moving trailer.
- Resale Value: Holds its value like a rare comic book.
Cons:
- Fuel Guzzler: The 4Runner drinks gas like it’s happy hour and everything’s half-off.
- Dated Interior: The interior is a bit retro like it's stuck in the early 2000s. But who doesn’t love a throwback?
Toyota Land Cruiser: The Luxury Beast
If you’ve got a big budget and a thirst for adventure the Toyota Land Cruiser is calling your name. This luxury SUV combines off-road prowess with upscale features that make every drive feel like a VIP experience. It's like wearing a tuxedo to a mud fight—you look great and still kick butt.
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Towing Capacity: Up to 8100 lbs
- Luxury Features: Premium leather JBL audio system heated and ventilated seats
- Off-Road Capability: Full-time 4WD with Crawl Control
Pros:
- Unmatched Off-Roading: Go anywhere and do it in style.
- Luxury Feel: Comforts you didn’t know you needed but now can’t live without.
- Impressive Towing: Because sometimes you just need to tow the world.
- Resale Value: Keeps its worth better than most college degrees.
Cons:
- Price Tag: The price will make your wallet cry and possibly scream.
- Poor Fuel Economy: It drinks gas faster than a frat boy at a kegger.
Toyota Sequoia: The Giant with a Gentle Heart
For those who need all the space the Sequoia is a full-size SUV that’s got room for the whole family and then some. It's powerful comfortable and can tow just about anything you’d ever need. The Sequoia is like that friend with the massive truck who’s always down to help you move.
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7400 lbs
- Interior Space: Seats up to eight with massive cargo space
- Safety: Standard Toyota Safety Sense P
Pros:
- Roomy Interior: Enough space to bring the whole family plus your in-laws and their luggage.
- Strong Towing: Built to haul like a champ.
- Comfortable Ride: Like driving on a pillow-top mattress.
- Safety Features: Keeps everyone safe without being naggy.
Cons:
- Poor Gas Mileage: It’s like driving a small house that’s perpetually thirsty.
- Large and In Charge: Maneuvering in tight spaces feels like parallel parking the Titanic.
Toyota Venza: The Hybrid Hero
The Toyota Venza is the SUV for those who want the efficiency of a hybrid without sacrificing style and comfort. This mid-size crossover is like the stylish eco-friendly roommate you wish you had—practical smart and always looks good.
Key Features:
- Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid
- Fuel Efficiency: Up to 40 mpg combined
- Interior: Luxurious with optional Star Gaze panoramic roof
- Tech: Standard with Toyota’s latest infotainment system
Pros:
- Excellent Fuel Economy: Saves gas like it’s hoarding it for the winter.
- Smooth Ride: Glide through life like you’re on a moving sidewalk.
- High-Tech Features: Feels like driving a spaceship in the best way.
- Sleek Design: Looks so good it might just steal your thunder.
Cons:
- Not Really Off-Road Ready: More of a coffee-shop cruiser than a mud-splasher.
- Limited Towing: Don’t expect to pull a trailer anytime soon. It's more about the looks than the muscle.
Toyota C-HR: The Compact Charmer
If you're in the market for something smaller but still stylish and reliable the Toyota C-HR is your match. This subcompact SUV is perfect for city dwellers who need a little more space than a regular sedan but don't want to deal with a massive vehicle. Think of the C-HR as the cute dependable little brother of the SUV family.
Key Features:
- Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
- Fuel Efficiency: Up to 27 mpg city 31 mpg highway
- Tech: Apple CarPlay Android Auto
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense standard
Pros:
- Great for City Driving: Small and nimble like a squirrel on espresso.
- Fuel Efficient: Doesn’t guzzle gas like its bigger brothers.
- Stylish Looks: Looks sharp and turns heads even if it’s just to say “what’s that?”
- Affordable Price: Great value for all the tech and safety features you get.
Cons:
- Sluggish Acceleration: It’s not exactly a race car more like a cautious jogger.
- Limited Cargo Space: Good luck fitting a week’s worth of groceries and your gym gear at the same time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task but with Toyota you know you’re getting something that’s going to last. Each of these most reliable Toyota SUVs brings something unique to the table from off-road prowess to family-friendly practicality. As Alex Collantes the owner of Avenue Motors car dealership puts it “Toyota’s lineup has always been about reliability comfort and longevity. You really can’t go wrong with any of these SUVs.”
If you’re ready to take the plunge check out the full list of the most reliable Toyota SUVs at Avenue Motors. Remember no SUV is perfect but with Toyota you’re getting pretty darn close. So go ahead pick the one that suits your lifestyle and drive off knowing you’ve made a solid choice.