There's no single "most" unreliable car, as it varies by survey and year, but MG, Nissan (especially Juke/Qashqai), Land Rover, Jeep, Ford, and Fiat often rank poorly in reliability studies for various models due to frequent issues like electronics, engine problems (timing chains, turbos), and transmission failures, with newer EVs like Rivian and Tesla also showing significant concerns, according to recent reports.
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There isn't one single "number 1" reliable car, as rankings vary, but Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus, along with Honda and Subaru, consistently rank at or near the top for overall brand reliability in studies from sources like Consumer Reports and What Car?. Specific models frequently cited for exceptional longevity and low running costs include the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Camry, known for being nearly "bulletproof" for daily driving.
These were the weakest car brands, per Consumer Reports, with Jeep ranked the lowest at 31:
A "poor man's Ferrari" refers to more affordable sports cars that share styling cues, mid-engine layouts, or performance characteristics with actual Ferraris, with the Toyota MR2 (especially the SW20 generation) being the most famous example due to its resemblance to the Ferrari 308/348, while other contenders include the Honda NSX, Acura NSX, and even older models like the Rover SD1 or Fiat X1/9, all offering exotic looks or handling at a fraction of the price.
The Holden Captiva and Toyota Camry also ranked in the top three, followed by the Mazda 3 and Nissan X-Trail. The data also revealed flat car batteries as the biggest cause of broken-down cars nationally.
The best second-hand cars are consistently reliable brands like Toyota, Honda, and Mazda, with popular models including the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic/Jazz, and Mazda3/CX-5, known for durability and low running costs, though a specific choice depends on your needs (e.g., small hatch, family SUV, sedan), budget, and desired features like fuel efficiency (Corolla Hybrid) or SUV practicality (CX-5).
The best age to buy a second-hand car is generally 2 to 5 years old, hitting the sweet spot where major depreciation has occurred but the car is still modern, reliable, and potentially has remaining warranty. The best time of year is often late December/January (clearing old stock) or around June/July (end-of-financial-year/quieter months) when dealers are motivated to discount.
What is the best age for a used car to buy? If you want the best balance of cost and dependability, a used car that's 2-5 years old is usually your best bet. Here's why: A car loses most of its value in the first 2-3 years, so buying nearly new avoids the steepest depreciation.
Vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Tacoma, Honda Civic, Toyota Prius, and Honda CR-V are most likely to reach 200,000 miles with proper care.
What vehicle is the most unreliable? The Cadillac Lyriqis the most unreliable vehicle for 2025. Its predicted reliability score of 53 out of 100 is well below every other vehicle on the market.
"Poor man's Porsche" describes more affordable cars offering similar style, handling, or a comparable driving experience to expensive Porsches, with historical examples including the Chevy Corvair, while modern contenders often cited are the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota MR2, or even entry-level Porsches like the Boxster/Cayman and older models like the 944, which provide accessible performance. The term signifies great value and fun without the premium price tag, although some Porsche purists debate its validity for newer, still-premium models.
The most dependable models—such as those from Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, and Toyota—have received high reliability ratings in various categories. Notably, the Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, and Lexus NX Hybrid rank among the most reliable vehicles in the 2025 Consumer Reports survey.
The Toyota Prius is another solid choice if gas mileage is a priority (used hybrids can be affordable and save fuel costs). If you need a smaller car, the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, or Ford Fiesta might be good options. For those wanting an SUV, consider older models like a Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, or Ford Escape.
When shopping, is there a best age for purchasing a used car? Cars are usually reliable for up to five years if they've been looked after. But a well-maintained 10-year-old car could be a better investment than a newer model that hasn't been cared for as well.
If you're searching for used cars with the least repairs, look no further than the Toyota Camry or Honda Civic. With respective annual maintenance costs of $388 and $368,1 these two sedans are affordable to service and can be dependable for hundreds of thousands of miles.
'They just keep going': Australia's most reliable cars – according to real people
Australia's "25-Year Rule" allows importing classic and collectible vehicles (cars, motorcycles, light commercials) older than 25 years, under the Road Vehicle Standards (RVS) laws, by obtaining a Concessional RAV (Register of Approved Vehicles) approval to avoid strict compliance with modern Australian Design Rules (ADRs). This "rolling" rule means the vehicle must be at least 25 years old at the time of application, simplifying imports for enthusiasts but still requiring compliance with ADRs relevant to its original build year, plus some modifications for safety like VINs or child restraints.
The Holden Commodore (VE models 2006-2013) has long been Australia's most stolen car model, consistently topping lists due to its popularity, affordability, and older security systems, though newer Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, LandCruiser, and RAV4 models are also prime targets for thieves, especially in regional areas, often stolen for parts or resale.
Kardashians can't buy new Ferraris, especially special editions, because Ferrari reportedly blacklisted them (and others like Justin Bieber) for allegedly not upholding brand image, including making unauthorized car modifications (like wrapping or customizing) and potentially not maintaining them to standards, which violates Ferrari's strict rules for exclusivity and reputation management. Ferrari controls ownership tightly, preventing purchases by those who customize cars against design, sell them too quickly, or damage the brand's prestige.
She seems to own a couple of SUVs, including a Mercedes AMG G63 and Mercedes Viano people carrier. She also has a classy, but understated Mercedes S-Class sedan, perfectly blending style and comfort. The pop singer's also been seen driving an old Toyota around, perhaps in an effort to pass under the radar.