22 Most Reliable Cars for 2020: Reviews, Photos, and More

Whether you're looking for that next-step family sedan, a city street hybrid, or a touch of luxury—you can enjoy your search for the best in style, tech, and powertrain options knowing that your purchase will be a welcome addition to your driveway.

To help you on your search, we've compiled this list of the 22 most reliable cars for 2020 shoppers, gathered from RepairPal reliability ratings. RepairPal’s ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2010–2019 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.¹

To determine these ratings, each year RepairPal examines repair tickets from over 2,000 auto repair shops in the U.S. Each vehicle’s dependability is rated by averaging data from millions of actual auto shop invoices. While repair cost plays a part in the rating, having a higher average cost does not necessarily mean a vehicle is less reliable. For example, parts and labor for a luxury vehicle may be more expensive, but if the severity of the repair and number of trips to the shop are minimal, that can positively impact a car’s reliability rating. This list shows a snapshot of RepairPal’s highest rated sedans, while many other cars are also highly rated as reliable.

With such a wide selection of cars from which to choose, CarMax is the ideal place to start your search. As you consider your next vehicle purchase, use this list to see which sedans RepairPal rated most reliable, and if your favorites made the top of the list.

22. Hyundai Elantra
23. Hyundai Elantra GT
24. Kia Forte
25. Chevrolet Cobalt
26. Mitsubishi Galant
27. Toyota Matrix
28. Mitsubishi Mirage
29. Kia Rio
30. Honda Accord
31. Honda Civic
32. Hyundai Accent
33. Honda Fit
34. Mazda Mazda2
35. Kia Forte5
36. Lexus ES 300h
37. Toyota Prius C
38. Acura TSX
39. Acura ILX
40. Toyota Corolla
41. Acura TLX
42. Lexus CT 200h
43. Toyota Yaris

RepairPal gave the Hyundai Elantra GT an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 7th out of 36 for compact cars.

The average annual repair cost is $397 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the Elantra GT.

• Cost: RepairPal reports the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Hyundai Elantra GT is $397, compared to an average of $526 for compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
• Frequency: According to Repair Pal, Hyundai Elantra GT owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.3 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for compact cars and 0.4 times for all vehicle models.
• Severity: RepairPal reports the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for the Hyundai Elantra GT, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 12% for all vehicle models.

If you'd like more cargo space from your urban living compact car, then Hyundai's fun-to-drive hatchback, the Elantra GT, is the compact four-door hero you're looking for. The 2017 Elantra GT has 51 cu-ft of cargo space with rear seats folded down. A stylish, ground-up redesign in 2018 only improved the GT; maximum cargo capacity increased to 55.1 cu-ft and more driver-friendly tech features became standard. The 2018–2019 Elantra GT base trim model features:

• 2.0L four-cylinder engine
• Eight-inch touchscreen
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Dual-zone climate control
• Steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls

 

RepairPal gave the Kia Forte an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Kia Forte is $451, compared to an average of $543 for compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Kia Forte owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for the Kia Forte, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

An attractive compact sedan lauded for its spacious interior feel, the Kia Forte is a practical purchase that also offers plenty of choices when it comes to trim and package options. The 2017–2018 Kia Forte sedan has three trim levels, with features like remote keyless entry and Bluetooth® connectivity as standard from the base trim up. The 2017–2018 Kia Forte LX sedan with automatic transmission and optional 'Popular package' offers:

• 2.0L four-cylinder engine
• Seven-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Upgraded interior upholstery and trim
• Cruise control
• Secondary driver monitoring service

 

RepairPal gave the Chevrolet Cobalt an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Chevrolet Cobalt is $453, compared to an average of $543 for compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Chevrolet Cobalt owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for the Chevrolet Cobalt, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

While the Cobalt may have retired from the Chevrolet roster in 2010, it's still appearing on urban neighborhood streets for good reason. This straightforward commuter car doubles up for family duty too: the 2010 sedan model seats five passengers and has a respectable trunk capacity of 13.9 cu-ft. There is a quiet cabin feel, clearly laid out driver controls, and just enough tech to make one this an easy win; your daily commute is entertaining and assured. The 2010 Cobalt XFE base trim offers:

• 15-inch steel wheels
• Auxiliary audio jack
• 60/40-split rear seat
• 2.2L inline four-cylinder engine
• Full-length side curtain airbag

 

RepairPal gave the Mitsubishi Galant an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 24 for midsize cars.

The average annual repair cost is $448 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity and frequency of repairs are both much lower than other vehicles, so the Galant is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.

• Cost: RepairPal reports the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Mitsubishi Galant is $448, compared to an average of $526 for midsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
• Frequency: According to Repair Pal, Mitsubishi Galant owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.1 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for midsize cars and 0.4 times for all vehicle models.
• Severity: RepairPal reports the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 10% for the Mitsubishi Galant, compared to an average of 12% for midsize cars and 12% for all vehicle models.

The Mitsubishi Galant, which was last produced for the 2012 model year, is a midsized sedan with plenty of driver appeal. A smooth ride with enjoyable road response makes this a nice option for a first-time commuter. Tech and entertainment features are driver-friendly too: the 2012 Galant is available in two trim levels (ES, SE) with the upper SE trim adding some welcome touches, including a sunroof and navigation system. Standard features on the 2012 Galant ES trim are more than adequate though, and include:

• 2.4L four-cylinder engine
• Stability control and anti-lock brakes
• Six-speaker audio system
• Auxiliary audio jack
• Cruise control

RepairPal gave the Toyota Matrix an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Matrix is $396, compared to an average of $543 for compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Toyota Matrix owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.5 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 7% for the Toyota Matrix, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

A hot hatchback with space aplenty, the Toyota Matrix (2007–2013) is a solid choice for day-to-day driving with the capacity to perform when transporting luggage, sporting equipment, or home supplies. Seating five passengers, the 2013 Matrix has 19.8 cu-ft of trunk space; this expands to 49.4 cu-ft when the second row of fold-flat seating is down. Available in two trims (L, S), the 2013 Toyota Matrix offers as standard:

• Bluetooth connectivity and USB port
• Fold-flat front passenger seat
• 1.8L four-cylinder engine
• Stability and traction control
• Six-speaker sound system

 

RepairPal gave the Mitsubishi Mirage an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Mitsubishi Mirage is $457, compared to an average of $520 for subcompact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Mitsubishi Mirage owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.1 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for the Mitsubishi Mirage, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

The subcompact Mitsubishi Mirage returned in 2017 with an attractive redesign that makes this maneuvering master a great city car. If you need to make a trip to the home improvement store or have a lot of luggage, the 2017–2019 Mirage has 17.2 cu-ft of trunk space, which increases to 47 cu-ft with rear seats folded down. The 2017–2018 Mirage has three trim levels, increasing to five trims for 2019 models. The 2018 mid-range Mirage SE standard features include:

• Automatic climate control
• Keyless ignition and entry
• 6.5-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Rearview camera
• Front and rear head airbags

 

RepairPal gave the Kia Rio an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Kia Rio is $434, compared to an average of $520 for subcompact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Kia Rio owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for the Kia Rio, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Cracking the top 15 on RepairPal’s reliability rating list is a subcompact marvel, the Kia Rio. Available in a sedan or hatchback model, both options offer thoughtful passenger storage solutions and decent cargo space. Go for the redesigned 2018 onward models for stylish good looks and an improved 1.6L four-cylinder engine. The mid-range 2018 Rio S trim hatchback offers these standard features:

• 60/40 split-folding rear seat
• Rearview camera>
• Bluetooth connectivity and two USB ports
• Dusk sensing headlights
• Six-speaker audio system

RepairPal gave the Honda Accord an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Honda Accord is $400, compared to an average of $541 for midsize cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Honda Accord owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.3 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for midsize cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for the Honda Accord, compared to an average of 12% for midsize cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan with a stand-out personality and good looks. Fully redesigned in 2018 and ready to take on the crossover segment that also attracts family vehicle shoppers, the 2018–2019 Honda Accord has five trim levels with a stunning number of standard features from its base level on. The 2018–2019 Accord LX offers these standard features:

• Turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine with CVT
• LED exterior lighting
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Seven-inch touchscreen
• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking

RepairPal gave the Honda Civic an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Honda Civic is $368, compared to an average of $543 for compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Honda Civic owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 10% for the Honda Civic, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

The popular Honda Civic debuted in 1990 and is currently available as a sedan, hatchback, or coupe and with some sporty editions too (2016–2019 models). Choose a 2016 or newer sedan model for its stunningly reimagined exterior, high-end interior finish, and a drivetrain that loves the highway. The 2016–2019 Honda Civic sedan has six trim levels, with 2019 models receiving a light refresh to the entertainment offering and the exterior frontage. The 2016–2019 Honda Civic sedan LX base trim offers these standard features:

• 2.0L four-cylinder engine
• Five-inch central display screen
• Honda Sensing suite (optional from 2016–2018, standard from 2019)
• Driver-side expanded-view mirror
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Four-speaker sound system

RepairPal gave the Hyundai Accent an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Hyundai Accent is $444, compared to an average of $520 for subcompact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Hyundai Accent owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 8% for the Hyundai Accent, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Hyundai's third appearance in this best-of listing, the Accent is a responsive and engaging sporty subcompact, generously proportioned for passenger comfort and with easy access to its 13.7 cu-ft of trunk space (2017–2019).

Redesigned in 2018 (and dropping its previous hatchback version), the Accent sedan offers three trim levels, all with a 1.6L four-cylinder engine and (trim dependent) six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Accent is a polished performer worth a test drive if you enjoy your daily driving. The 2018–2019 Accent in its mid-range SEL trim offers as standard:

• Seven-inch touchscreen display
• 15-inch alloy wheels
• Smartphone integration
• Rearview camera
• Seven exterior color choices

RepairPal gave the Honda Fit an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Honda Fit is $390, compared to an average of $520 for subcompact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Honda Fit owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.4 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 8% for the Honda Fit, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

The third-generation Fit hit the road in 2015, and this quirky Honda upstart is a popular choice. The 2015–2019 models are an excellent option if you're shopping for a small hatchback with flexible cargo options. The functionality of its drivetrain is a great fit too; 2019 models with the 1.5L four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission get an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined.² The 2018–2019 Honda Fit, in its upper mid-range EX trim has these standard features:

• Honda Sensing suite
• Sunroof
• Seven-inch touchscreen
• 60/40 split-folding rear seat with Honda Magic Seat function
• Blindspot camera system

RepairPal gave the Mazda 2 an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 21 for subcompact cars.

The average annual repair cost is $449 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity and frequency of repairs are both much lower than other vehicles, so the 2 is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.

• Cost: RepairPal reports the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Mazda 2 is $449, compared to an average of $456 for subcompact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
• Frequency: According to Repair Pal, Mazda 2 owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.3 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.4 times for all vehicle models.
• Severity: RepairPal reports the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 7% for the Mazda 2, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 12% for all vehicle models.

Placing tenth in this list of RepairPal reliability ratings, the Mazda2 is a practical and straightforward hatchback that's remarkably fun and worth a test drive if you're looking for a commuter-friendly hatchback. For its final year of production, the 2014 Mazda2 comes in two trim levels, Sport and Touring. The 2014 Mazda2 Sport offers these standard features:

• 60/40-split rear seats
• Stability and traction control
• 1.5L inline four-cylinder engine
• Keyless entry
• Four-speaker sound system with USB port

RepairPal gave the Kia Forte5 an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Kia Forte5 is $424, compared to an average of $543 for compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Kia Forte5 owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 8% for the Kia Forte5, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

If the Kia Forte is already on your radar, the Forte5 is the hatchback version boasting impressive cargo space and a sporty trim option that's exclusive to this model type. The 2017–2018 Forte5 has standard cargo storage of 23.2 cu-ft expanding up to 56.4 cu-ft with the rear seats folded down. Consider the 2017–2018 Forte5 SX trim, which has these standard features:

• Turbocharged 1.6-L four-cylinder engine
• Sport-tuned suspension
• 18-inch wheels
• Sporty exterior styling
• Folding center armrest

RepairPal gave the Lexus ES 300h an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 31 for luxury midsize cars.

The average annual repair cost is $524 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the ES300h.

• Cost: RepairPal reports the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Lexus ES300h is $524, compared to an average of $739 for luxury midsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
• Frequency:According to Repair Pal, Lexus ES300h owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.4 times per year, compared to an average of 0.6 times for luxury midsize cars and 0.4 times for all vehicle models.
• Severity: According to Repair Pal, the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 4% for the Lexus ES300h, compared to an average of 12% for luxury midsize cars and 12% for all vehicle models.

Our first hybrid vehicle on this list, this Lexus sedan is the picture of luxury. Featuring a hybrid 2.5L gasoline engine and electric battery power train, the 2017 model has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 40 mpg combined.² As expected from Lexus, the 2017–2018 ES 300h has a host of thoughtful standard features, including:

• Rearview camera
• Seven-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity
• Simulated leather upholstery
• Eight-speaker sound system with auxiliary jack
• USB port

RepairPal gave the Toyota Prius c an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 21 for subcompact cars.

The average annual repair cost is $383 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the Prius C.

• Cost: According to Repair Pal, the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Prius C is $383, compared to an average of $456 for subcompact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
• Frequency: According to Repair Pal, Toyota Prius C owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.4 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.4 times for all vehicle models.
• Severity: According to Repair Pal, the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 7% for the Toyota Prius C, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 12% for all vehicle models.

Toyota's entry-level Prius hybrid is a refreshing addition to the subcompact hatchback sector; there's seating for five, 17.1 cu-ft of cargo space, and four easy-to-understand trim levels (2012–2018 models). As the smallest Prius available, 2017–2018 models run on a 1.5L four-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor (paired with continuously variable automatic transmission) that positions it as a top choice if you're a green-conscious city-dweller. The 2017–2018 Prius C has plenty to offer at the base trim level:

• Lane-departure warning and intervention
• Automatic high beams
• LED headlights, taillights and brake lights
• 6.1-inch touchscreen display and voice command
• Bluetooth connectivity

RepairPal gave the Acura TSX an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Acura TSX is $415, compared to an average of $771 for luxury midsize cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Acura TSX owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.4 times per year, compared to an average of 0.7 times for luxury midsize cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 6% for the Acura TSX, compared to an average of 12% for luxury midsize cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Acura's entry-level luxury sedan, the 2004–2014 TSX sets a fine standard in base level features. Its final production year of 2014 offers a choice of two engines and some nice add-on packages. The base model features a 2.4L four-cylinder engine (with manual or automatic transmission) but there's a V6 engine with sport-tuned suspension if you need a bit more thrill on your daily drives. The 2014 TSX base trim model standard features include:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Eight-way power driver seat with memory settings
• Stability and traction controls
• Optional technology package upgrades

RepairPal gave the Acura ILX an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Acura ILX is $435, compared to an average of $765 for luxury compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Acura ILX owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.3 times per year, compared to an average of 0.7 times for luxury compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 6% for the Acura ILX, compared to an average of 12% for luxury compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

The Acura ILX takes position five on RepairPal’s list of most reliable cars. This compact four-door luxury sedan received a total revamp in 2016 and an exterior refresh in 2019, for an updated look. The 2016–2019 Acura ILX has just one engine option, a 2.4L four-cylinder engine with201 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The 2016–2020 base trim level has plenty of pleasing standard features, such as a power sunroof and heated front seats. The 2018 ILX base model with the Premium package has these standard features:

• Seven-speaker audio system
• Leather upholstery
• Universal garage door opener
• Blindspot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Seven-inch touchscreen infotainment display

RepairPal gave the Toyota Corolla an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Corolla is $362, compared to an average of $543 for compact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Toyota Corolla owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.3 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 times for compact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 7% for the Toyota Corolla, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

The 2017–2019 Toyota Corolla is a consistent and practical vehicle full of standard features, easy to navigate tech, and a comfortable cabin that pleases driver and passengers alike. Its 2017 refresh added a suite of driver assistance features to all models as standard. models. Standard features on the 11th generation 2017–2019 base level L trim Corolla include:

• 1.8L four-cylinder engine with CVT
• Six-speaker audio system with 6.1-inch entertainment touchscreen
• Adaptive cruise control
• Six-way adjustable driver seat
• Rearview camera

RepairPal gave the Acura TLX an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. 

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Acura TLX is $440, compared to an average of $771 for luxury midsize cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Acura TLX owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.7 times for luxury midsize cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 6% for the Acura TLX, compared to an average of 12% for luxury midsize cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Acura's TLX compact luxury sedan debuted in 2015 and is the athletic-looking replacement for the TSX featured earlier on this best-of listing. Choosing a 2018 and onward model brings some subtle exterior updates and a new trim—the A-Spec. The TLX features a road-gripping setup thanks to its 3.5L V6 engine, 19-inch wheels, and sport-tuned suspension. All 2018 Acura TLX sedans feature:

• AcuraWatch driver assistance suite
• LED headlights
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Active noise cancellation
• 14.3 cu-ft of trunk space

RepairPal gave the Lexus CT 200h an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 1st out of 17 for luxury compact cars.

The average annual repair cost is $386 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the CT200h.

• Cost: RepairPal reports the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Lexus CT200h is $386, compared to an average of $801 for luxury compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
• Frequency: According to Repair Pal, Lexus CT200h owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.4 times per year, compared to an average of 0.7 times for luxury compact cars and 0.4 times for all vehicle models.
• Severity: According to Repair Pal, the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 5% for the Lexus CT200h, compared to an average of 11% for luxury compact cars and 12% for all vehicle models.

Featured in the Lexus lineup from 2011–2017, the CT 200h is a hybrid hatchback with a touch of luxury. A city dweller's delight, it has seamless stop-start technology and a choice of four driving modes: Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport. Choose a 2014 or later CT 200h for refreshed styling and updated tech. The 2017 CT 200h has two trim levels, and its base-level model is well-equipped with these standard features:

• 34.8 cu-ft of storage space behind the front row
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Heated mirrors with flush turn signals
• Dual-zone automatic climate control

RepairPal gave the Toyota Yaris an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.

• Cost: RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Yaris is $333, compared to an average of $520 for subcompact cars and $719 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Frequency: According to RepairPal, Toyota Yaris owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.4 times per year, compared to an average of 0.3 times for subcompact cars and 0.5 times for all the vehicle models RepairPal considered in its dataset.
• Severity: RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 6% for the Toyota Yaris, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 13% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Taking the top spot on RepairPal’s list of most reliable cars is the Toyota Yaris. Originally a hatchback vehicle from its 2007 debut through 2018, the Yaris has seen an evolution over the years. In 2019, Toyota offered the Yaris as a sedan-only model, previously known as the Toyota Yaris iA, which was available from 2016. Take your time to find the one that's right for you because there's no doubt that this ever-evolving vehicle will continue to please. The 2018 Toyota Yaris hatchback in the mid-range LE trim offers these standard features:

• Automatic headlights and high-beam control
• 60/40 split-folding rear seat
• Lane-departure and forward-collision warning
• 6.1-inch touchscreen
• Remote locking and unlocking

With so many options to choose from, this list will help you narrow your search to find the right vehicle for you.

¹ RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 09/02/2020. Learn more at www.carmax.com/repairpal-reliability.
²Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.