- What the survey finds about overall reliability
- The one Subaru model with improved reliability
- Other models CR says have improved reliability ratings
It’s official. Consumer Reports (CR) released its most updated predicted reliability study for 2022. This is a key resource for any consumer considering a new vehicle purchase in the coming months. The study surveys actual vehicle owners about their experiences with their new rides. And the results, which span more than 17 categories, including performance, infotainment, and functionality, might sway your buying decision.
There are some noteworthy trends to look out for in this latest CR reliability study. Sedans continue to be the most reliable, and pickups are still hit-and-miss. But if you have Subaru in mind, there’s one particular model worth celebrating. It’s the only Subaru in this reliability study that showed improvement.
Subaru’s logo | Metin Aktas/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
What the survey finds about overall reliability
If you’re not sure which vehicle model or brand deserves your attention, you can use this study to help you narrow it down. According to Consumer Reports, sedans continue to enjoy the category of most reliable.
Despite consumers trading up for bigger SUVs and pickups, it’s the wholesome sedan, rooted in years of design and production history, that tends to be the most reliable. And since sedans don’t have all those extras, like sliding doors and third-row entertainment, there are just fewer amenities to break down or go wrong.
Additionally, the CR reliability study suggests electric vehicles, because they’re newer and have more components, are struggling in the reliability department. And because so many more consumers are driving EVs, there’s more data coming in to analyze for the purpose of predicted reliability. Hybrids are rated better than PHEVs and EVs.
Trucks are all over the place in terms of reliability. Some models are notorious for ongoing issues, while others earn bragging rights in dependability. Some of the pickups with below-average reliability scores in this study include the Nissan Frontier, Jeep Gladiator, and all the full-sized trucks from GM and Ford.
The one Subaru model with improved reliability
Subaru is a brand synonymous with dependability. But only one Subaru model actually got better in the reliability study. The midsize SUV, the Subaru Ascent, according to Consumer Reports, earned above-average scores in both predicted reliability and predicted owner satisfaction.
Considering in 2020, the Ascent had below-average reliability scores; it’s a sign that the automaker continues to get it right and Ascent owners are having fewer complications with their SUVs.
MotorTrend endorses the 2023 Subaru Ascent, too, celebrating its “gutsy turbo engine” and “off-road chops.” This three-row SUV gets updated front and rear styling, and both Apple and Android connectivity platforms come standard.
The 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine is impressive, harnessing 260 horses and punching a 0 to 60 time of 6.9 seconds. Considering the Ascent has improved in reliability with CR, too, it’s a great all-around vehicle option.
Other models CR says have improved reliability ratings
Related
Subaru isn’t the only automaker with an improved reliability model. The CR study recommends a few makes and models worth considering since they demonstrated improvements in reliability among vehicle owners.
The Volvo S60, Toyota Corolla Hatchback, Nissan Rogue, and Mitsubishi Outlander made this list of improved reliability. The Mini Cooper, Lincoln Corsair, Hyundai Santa Fe, Buick Enclave, and Audi Q3 got better, too. Even the Genesis G80 and GV70 both demonstrated improved dependability in this report.
Consumer testimonials can be the greatest asset to your car-buying decision. And this latest CR reliability study can be your guide to help you avoid the few poor-performing models and focus on the winners. The Subaru Ascent is one that definitely improved and might be worth a test drive.
Keyword: Only 1 Subaru Model Improved Reliability in 2022, According to Consumer Reports