- The 2022 Subaru Outback is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs
- The 2022 Toyota Venza is the most reliable midsize SUV according to Consumer Reports
- The Toyota Venza’s overall rating is lower than the Subaru Outback
- Which midsize SUV is right for you?
According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Toyota Venza are the two most reliable midsize SUVs. Reliability is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing any car, especially an SUV. Which of these two family haulers is more trustworthy and is just all-around better? Find out in this reliable midsize SUV battle.
The 2022 Subaru Outback is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness | Subaru
The 2022 Subaru Outback received the highest overall rating of all midsize SUVs from Consumer Reports. Its total score of 85 out of 100 makes it the best midsize SUV available. Most importantly, its reliability rating is a measly 3 out of 5. Conclusively, the 2022 Subaru Outback gained most of its overall ranking points from its road test. The Outback drives exceptionally well, showing through Consumer Reports’ score of 91.
Why does the Outback get a lower score for its predicted reliability? CR‘s predicted reliability rating considers previous model years. During the 2012-2015 model years, Subaru Outback owners experienced significant problems. Some of the issues include engine problems ranging from minor to major, transmission, electrical, and exhaust problems. Although since 2015, the Outback has been reported to be virtually problem-free, the 2020 and 2021 models still experienced heavy amounts of in-car electronics issues.
The 2022 Toyota Venza is the most reliable midsize SUV according to Consumer Reports
2021 Toyota Venza | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit
In terms of the most reliable midsize SUVs, it literally can’t get any better than the 2022 Toyota Venza. Consumer Reports rates the Venza a perfect 5 out of 5 for predicted reliability. Unlike the Subaru Outback, it’s experienced almost zero excessive problems over the years. An enormous reason for that is that the Venza didn’t exist for the last six years. From 2015 to 2021, the Toyota Venza was discontinued. It turns out the best way to get a high-reliability rating is to not exist for a while.
Despite the discontinuation, before its absence and its first year returned to the lineup, the Venza was mostly unproblematic. The 2021 Toyota Venza received reports of the same in-car electronics issues as the Outback. There are no other significant problems with the returning model, mechanical or otherwise.
The Toyota Venza’s overall rating is lower than the Subaru Outback
As a whole, the Venza came in second on Consumer Reports list of best midsize SUVs. Since it’s the most reliable option, you’d think it would win overall too. Unfortunately, it falls short in a few key areas. The Toyota Venza scored just a 75 on its road test, placing it far under the Outback in that category. Additionally, it loses overall points for its lack of cargo space.
Where the Venza displeases, the Outback succeeds. Contrarily to the Venza, the 2022 Subaru Outback scored a 91 for its road test, including a perfect ride score. Ride score is based on CR’s judgment of “how well the suspension isolates and absorbs road imperfections and how steady it keeps the body on various road surfaces.” As for features and tech, the two midsize SUVs are remarkably similar.
Which midsize SUV is right for you?
Both the 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Toyota Venza are safe, reliable midsize SUV options. You can’t go wrong with either one of these dependable vehicles. The Outback isn’t as reliable as the Venza but excels in its smooth ride and comfortable interior. The Venza is the perfect reliable midsize SUV but may not have enough space for everyone. Regardless, neither midsize SUV is a bad value, unsafe, or unreliable, so the choice is yours.
Keyword: Consumer Reports Most Reliable Midsize SUVs Battle it Out: 2022 Subaru Outback vs. 2022 Toyota Venza