Written by: Jen Wagner
Last updated: June 11, 2022
Imagine having zero financial restrictions to buy any vehicle of your choosing. What would you pick? Would it be a unique sports car with a souped-up engine, a luxury SUV with off-road capabilities, or a classic 4-door sedan with a hybrid drivetrain?
While selecting your dream car might be tempting, knowing its overall reliability and commonly failing parts are critical to the buying process. After all, cars are costly assets with many components that can deteriorate over time. Therefore, the expense doesn’t end after the purchase is complete.
Knowing which cars are the most reliable is significant when looking for a new vehicle. You want to ensure you’re buying something you can depend on. In the long run, it can save you a lot of money. Let’s look at Consumer Reports’ top 5 most reliable cars of 2022 and what each one offers to potential buyers.
#5. Cadillac XT5
As an American-built midsize SUV, the Cadillac XT5 is considered one of the most reliable luxury compact SUVs. The XT5 offers drivers two engine options; you can choose from a 237-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine or a naturally-aspirated 310-horsepower 3.6L V6 engine.
The XT5 cabin is well-furnished, providing straightforward smartphone integration and ample room for passengers and cargo. The standard Cadillac warranty outmatches many others, delivering complimentary scheduled maintenance.
Edmunds gives the XT5 an overall rating of 7.4/10 and notes that its MSRP range falls between $43,995 and $55,895.
#4. Toyota Prius
The 2022 Toyota Prius boasts outstanding efficiency and cargo space as a compact hybrid vehicle. The base model provides driver assistance, infotainment technology, and exceptional safety ratings and warranties. Its EPA ratings stand at 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway for the base L Eco trim, making it one of the most economical cars on the market.
Edmunds rates the ’22 Prius a 7.3/10 overall and lists its MSRP range between $24,525 and $32,820.
#3. Toyota Prius Prime
Suppose you wish to lower your carbon footprint but still desire safety, reliability, and affordability. In that case, a 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is an excellent option to explore. As the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the regular Prius, the Prime delivers a 25-mile electric driving range.
The Prius Prime also holds a four-cylinder engine that works with an 8.8-kWh battery pack, an electric motor, and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which boosts efficiency. Once the battery drains, it conveniently converts to a regular hybrid, earning an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 54 mpg. In addition, Prius Prime provides driver assistance, infotainment technology, and superior safety ratings like its sibling listed above.
Edmunds gives the ’22 Prius Prime an overall rating of 7.2/10 and lists its MSRP range between $28,220 and $34,000.
#2. Kia Niro EV
When thinking of electric vehicles (EVs), automakers like Kia may not come to mind, but they should. The 2022 Kia Niro EV is a compact car that offers affordability, spaciousness, and an exceptional EPA estimated 239-mile driving range with a 64-kWh battery pack powering a front-mounted motor.
In fact, according to Edmunds’ real-world testing, this Kia model was capable of driving 285 miles on a single charge. And with ample room in the backseat and cargo area, drivers can enjoy the comfort of crossover and electric vehicle technology.
The Niro EV hatchback also delivers a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Harman Kardon sound system and navigation, stable handling, and robust acceleration.
Edmunds rates the ’22 Kia Niro EV as an overall 8.3/10 rating and lists its MSRP range between $39,990 and $44,650.
#1. Lexus GX
The GX line from Lexus is a top-selling luxury midsize SUV that delivers incredible comfort for both on and off-road travels. Its high seating position and truck-like body-on-frame construction give drivers adequate road views to traverse obstacles and uneven terrain or drive effortlessly anywhere.
With 3rd-row seating, straightforward interior controls, and updated infotainment with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, drivers and passengers can rest easy knowing the Lexus GX can go almost anywhere. Along with its V8 engine and several driver assistance features, the GX boasts substantial resale value and proven reliability.
Edmunds ranks the ’22 Lexus GX at 6.9/10 overall. Pricing starts at $55,425 for the base GX 460 and increases to around $66,210 for the luxury model.
Nurturing Vehicle Reliability With Proper Maintenance And Care
Reliability is a significant factor to consider when shopping for a new car. When spending thousands of dollars, you want to feel confident with your purchase. And even though new vehicles depreciate as soon as they leave the lot, you shouldn’t have to worry about constant breakdowns and repair bills. So if you are in the market for a new car, keep Consumer Reports’ top 5 most reliable cars of 2022 in mind. One of them might be a suitable set of wheels for you and your needs.
But whether you plan to purchase a new vehicle or keep the one you have, staying on top of maintenance can help ensure it runs well. Along with adhering to your manufacturer’s recommendations, a comprehensive extended car warranty can help extend your vehicle’s lifespan and ease the financial burden of a deteriorating or broken part.
Investing in a plan encourages upkeep for minor problems as they surface and relieves unnecessary stress over potential breakdowns away from home. Learn more about how you can protect your vehicle by checking out our top-provider recommendations today. We offer a list of general pros and cons and an overall rank to help you sift through the list to find the best provider for you.
