In the fast-paced world of automotive innovation, reliability is the unsung hero. Sure, flashy designs and cutting-edge tech are great, but that’s pure magic when your car starts like a trusty old steed on a freezing winter morning. Over the past decade, we’ve seen some real champions in the realm of reliability. These cars aren’t just metal and bolts; they’re your faithful sidekicks, always ready to hit the road without a hitch. Here are the 11 most reliable car models launched in the last decade that won’t disappoint you.
Mazda 6 (2014)
The 2014 Mazda 6 is a mid-size sedan that embodies Mazda’s “KODO: Soul of Motion” design philosophy, exuding a sense of dynamic motion even at a standstill. Its exterior features a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette with a prominent front grille and elongated headlights, giving it a sporty yet elegant appearance. Under the hood, the 2014 Mazda 6 is powered by a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Mazda 6’s reliability is so steadfast, it’s like it’s powered by honor and integrity.
Kia Soul (2014)
The Kia Soul might look like a hamster’s dream car, but don’t let its quirky looks fool you. Its boxy silhouette is not just a quirky aesthetic choice but also a functional one, providing ample interior space. The rear sports distinctive vertical taillights, ensuring that it’s recognizable from all angles. The car rides on a new platform, offering improved ride comfort and handling. The Soul is also backed by Kia’s impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, one of the best in the industry. The Kia Soul’s reliability is like that of a beloved sitcom—always there, season after season, providing consistent entertainment (or, in this case, transportation).
Subaru Outback (2015)
If the Subaru Outback were a person, it would be the friend always ready for a spontaneous camping trip. Equipped with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, the Outback is built for both city streets and off-road adventures. The 2015 model also offers two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder with 256 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), ensuring smooth and efficient performance.
Honda Fit (2015)
The Honda Fit proves that good things come in small packages. This compact hatchback might be pint-sized, but its reliability is anything but. It features Honda’s Magic Seat system, allowing multiple configurations to accommodate cargo of various shapes and sizes, making it a leader in its class for cargo space. Under the hood, the Fit is powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), offering a fuel economy of up to 41 mpg on the highway. The 2015 Fit also earned high marks from J.D. Power for dependability and has a history of maintaining resale value well. It’s like the superhero sidekick of cars—small, underestimated, but always coming through in the clutch.
Toyota Avalon (2015)
The Toyota Avalon is the undercover agent of the sedan world—smooth, sophisticated, and incredibly solid. Inside, the Avalon spoils its passengers with premium materials, spacious seating, and ambient lighting that feels more like a luxury lounge than a car. The car also features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that purrs with 268 horsepower. The suspension is finely tuned for comfort, making potholes feel like gentle nudges. With features like a touchscreen infotainment system and advanced safety options, the 2015 Avalon blends modern technology with timeless elegance.
Hyundai Tucson (2016)
In compact SUVs, the Hyundai Tucson stands out not for flash but for its unwavering reliability. Its bold, hexagonal grille and sleek, sculpted body lines give it a more refined, athletic look. The redesigned Tucson features a longer wheelbase and wider stance, enhancing stability and interior space. It also offers two engine options: a 2.0L inline-4 producing 164 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.6L inline-4 with 175 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering a sportier drive. Hyundai’s commitment to quality is evident in Tucson’s excellent safety ratings, including a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.
Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017)
Electric cars are often seen as the future, but the Chevrolet Bolt EV has been solidly zipping around the present. It has a 60-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and boasts an impressive range of 238 miles on a single charge. The Bolt EV’s exterior is marked by a modern, aerodynamic shape with a front grille and LED lighting. Its flat floor design maximizes interior space, providing ample legroom and cargo capacity. The Bolt EV’s electric motor delivers 200 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft of torque, ensuring a zippy and responsive drive. Its one-pedal driving feature and regenerative braking enhance efficiency while offering a unique driving experience.
Nissan Altima (2015)
The Nissan Altima might not be the flashiest sedan on the block, but its records are rock solid. The car’s body structure utilizes high-strength steel, improving rigidity and safety without adding excessive weight. The car is spacious and well-appointed, featuring NASA-inspired “zero-gravity” front seats designed to reduce fatigue on long drives. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with a 4.0-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display and available 7.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Safety is a strong suit, with the Altima earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Plus, with features like ProPilot Assist, it quietly integrates modern tech into its dependable framework, making it a steady companion for any journey.
Ford Fusion (2014)
The Ford Fusion is like the Renaissance man of cars—versatile and often overlooked. Its bold, Aston Martin-inspired front grille, sculpted body lines, and coupe-like roofline give it a sporty, upscale appearance. The Fusion’s design isn’t just for show—its shape contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The 2014 model has several powertrain options, including a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, a turbocharged 1.5L or 1.6L EcoBoost engine, and a hybrid variant, with various choices for different driving preferences. Its reliability ensures it won’t disappoint you, whether you’re headed to a meeting or a weekend getaway.
Mitsubishi Outlander (2014)
Mitsubishi might not be the first name that comes to mind when considering reliable SUVs, but the Outlander proves its worth with solid performance and a spacious interior. The interior materials are decent quality, with soft-touch surfaces and intuitive controls. Taking it up a notch, the 2014 Outlander also features a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine delivering 166 horsepower or an available 3.0L V6 producing 224 horsepower paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). With proper maintenance, this model is known to surpass 150,000 miles, making it a dependable and practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. It’s the underdog that punches above its weight, delivering everything without the hefty price tag.
Volkswagen Golf (2015)
The Volkswagen Golf is like that European friend who always seems effortlessly cool. It is built on Volkswagen’s MQB platform and boasts a streamlined, aerodynamic profile that enhances fuel efficiency and handling. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 170 horsepower, ensuring a spirited driving experience while maintaining excellent fuel economy. The 2015 Golf also received top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation. Its fuel efficiency, with up to 36 mpg on the highway, also ensures fewer trips to the pump.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
No car company wants to deliver a dud. However, even though companies try their best to deliver excellent cars, some cars turn out to be lemons, breaking down frequently. This creates problems for both the consumer and the manufacturer.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
