According to Warrantywise, a leading UK used car warranty provider, the Honda CR-V is ranked as the most reliable used SUV as of August 1, 2024, based on data from 2021-24.
As families across the UK return to the rhythm of school life, having a reliable vehicle for the school run is a top priority. Warrantywise, the UK’s leading extended car warranty provider, aims to educate households on the most dependable vehicles available. According to its leading Reliability Index, Warrantywise has named the Honda CR-V the most reliable ‘Sports Utility Vehicle’ (SUV).
The back-to-school season in the UK has increased vehicle usage, with daily school runs, extracurricular activities, and weekend family trips placing significant demands on cars. In recent years, many UK families have shifted from traditional estate cars to increasingly popular SUVs due to their elevated driving position, spacious interiors, and the availability of four-wheel drive options, making them especially appealing for family life.
SUV sales in the UK are projected to generate £15.3 billion in revenue by 20241, significantly outpacing estate car registrations, which have dwindled to just 110,000 in 20232, underscoring the apparent dominance of SUVs in the market.
The latest Warrantywise Reliability Index data highlights the top ten most reliable SUVs based on various criteria, including repair costs, frequency of repairs, and overall reliability scores. Leading the pack with an overall score of 85/100 is the Honda CR-V, which stands out for its consistent performance and low maintenance costs, making it a top choice for families looking to minimise the risk of unexpected repairs. Following closely is the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Dacia Duster, with scores of 81/100 and 79/100, respectively, proving robust and dependable, offering a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness that appeals to budget-conscious families.
The rest of the top ten comprises a diverse mix of vehicles, with the Kia Sportage in fourth place with a score of 78/100 and the Ford EcoSport in fifth with 77/100. The Renault Captur comes in sixth with an overall score of 75/100, and in joint seventh, with a score of 72/100, are the Hyundai ix35 and the Nissan Juke. Finally, the BMW X3 and the Hyundai Tucson tie for ninth place, scoring a respectable 71/100.
Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise, said: “As children up and down the country return to school, we see added pressure on family vehicles, meaning having a trusted family wagon is more crucial than ever. Demands on budgets for new uniforms, books, and even activities will create a new set of cost-of-living concerns, and the last thing families need is for their cars to be repaired costlyly during this time. This is why we have spotlighted the most reliable used SUVs for sale in the UK, to help households make a wise choice for their next family car.
“The Honda CR-V’s top ranking [in the Reliability Index] confirms its reputation as a dependable and trustworthy choice. In a time when families need their vehicles to be as reliable as possible, especially with the increasing demands of daily life, having a car that consistently performs without unexpected breakdowns is invaluable. At Warrantywise, they aim to provide families peace of mind from an extended warranty plan.”
Top Ten Most Reliable SUVs
Position Models Most Expensive
Repair Request Overall Score /100
1 Honda CR-V £2,519.17 85
2 Mitsubishi Outlander £14,298.08 81
3 Dacia Duster £4,325.26 79
4 Kia Sportage £10,404.00 78
5 Ford EcoSport £7,242.85 77
6 Renault Captur £4,288.70 75
7 Hyundai ix35 £4,453.20 72
= Nissan Juke £10,850.58 72
9 BMW X3 £5,668.75 71
= Hyundai Tucson £8,799.74 71
Reliability is always a significant concern for families, especially during the busy school term. However, even the most reliable vehicles can encounter unexpected issues. According to Warrantywise data, the most expensive repair reported was for a Mitsubishi Outlander, with an engine repair costing over £14,000. This emphasises the importance of having a warranty, regardless of the size of the vehicle, to provide peace of mind.
With schools back in session, the demand for reliable and robust vehicles is higher than ever. Warrantywise’s latest findings offer valuable insights for consumers, helping them make informed decisions when selecting a car that will support their busy lives without compromising dependability. While SUVs are gaining popularity, families should consult Warrantywise’s Reliability Index when buying their next vehicle. The data covers hatchbacks, crossovers, estate cars, and other significant categories.
Warrantywise is the UK’s leading provider of extended car warranties, offering over 20 years of experience delivering comprehensive and transparent warranty plans. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Warrantywise ensures peace of mind for drivers across the UK by protecting them against unexpected repair costs.
- For more information, visit; www.warrantywise.co.uk
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