Although the automotive industry is increasingly striving for innovation, futuristic designs and advanced technology, one key feature remains that is equally important to buyers of all generations: reliability. After all, what good is the latest infotainment system or impressive acceleration if the car lets you down in the middle of the road? In 2024, many car brands are raising the bar with vehicles that combine both modern technologies and uncompromising reliability. You can expect high build quality, long life and fewer maintenance hassles – all in one package. In this article, we reveal the 10 most reliable cars that will be available on the European market in 2024. Get ready to check out the vehicles that will see you through this year and the years to come without unnecessary worries.
Vehicle selection is based on data from reliable sources, including reliability surveys, user ratings and opinions from automotive experts. With an emphasis on build quality, innovation and long-term reliability, we bring you the best of the best. Here are 10+ cars, or two car brands, that not only wowed buyers and critics with their performance, comfort and technology, but also earned a spot at the top of the 2024 Reliable Vehicles list.
1. Toyota
Photo: ToyotaToyota has long been synonymous with reliability, and the 2024 is no exception. Models like Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Corolla, rank at the very top of the list of reliable cars. Toyota is known for its durable hybrid systems and reliable engines, making it one of the most respected brands among European drivers. According to the British motoring magazine What Car? Toyota has been one of the most reliable brands for many years, as it consistently achieves high reliability ratings.
2. Lexus
Photo: LexusLexus, the luxury subsidiary of Toyota, offers vehicles that combine superior comfort and reliability. Models Lexus NX and Lexus RX have been praised in reliability studies for their extremely precise builds and reliable hybrid powertrains. In the past, Lexus has regularly taken the top spots in reliability surveys such as the survey JD Power, where the brand ranked among the most reliable car manufacturers in the world.
3. Mazda
Photo: MazdaMazda continues its philosophy of “Jinba Ittai” – harmony between driver and vehicle – and this approach is also reflected in the reliability of their cars. Mazda CX-5 and Mazda3 are known for their robust construction and reliable engines. According to the report Auto Express Mazda regularly excels in reliability surveys, making it one of the most trusted brands on the European market.
4. Honda
Photo: HondaHonda is renowned for its engineering precision and durable engines. Models like you Honda Civic and Honda CR-V, are among the most reliable in their class. Honda has won several reliability awards in the past in surveys such as What Car?, where owners praised its reliable powertrains and build quality.
5. Hyundai
Photo: HyundaiHyundai has established itself as a strong player in reliability over the past decade. Models like you Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson, are among the best rated, thanks to their advanced technologies and durable construction. According to the research she did JD Power, Hyundai regularly ranks high in the reliability category.
6. Kia
Photo: KiaHyundai's sister brand Kia has become synonymous with reliability and affordability in recent years. Kia Sportage and Kia Ceed are among the best rated models in their segment. In addition, Kia also offers one of the longest warranties in the automotive industry, which only confirms their confidence in the quality of their vehicles (Auto Express).
7. BMW
Photo: BMWThe German car brand BMW is known for its superb driving and technical excellence. BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 series stand out for their reliability and innovative technology. In a survey he conducted Auto Bild, BMWs have often been praised for their reliability, which is unusual for luxury brands where the technology is often more complex.
8. Audi
Photo: AudiAudi is another German brand known for its combination of prestige, performance and reliability. Audi A4 and Audi Q5 are among the most reliable models, as they boast advanced technology and durable construction. What Car? Audi has often ranked high in reliability rankings, particularly for its interior quality and reliable engines.
9. Volvo
Photo: VolvoSwedish Volvo is synonymous with safety and reliability. Volvo XC40 and Volvo XC60 are known for their solid construction and innovative safety technology. Volvo has maintained a high reputation for reliability for many years, thanks to its focus on quality and safety, which is often confirmed in user surveys and expert reviews (Auto Express).
10. Mercedes-Benz
Photo: Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz is a prestigious brand that combines luxury with reliability. Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are among the best rated, thanks to their advanced technology and build quality. According to the data JD Power Mercedes models consistently rank high in reliability, a rarity among luxury vehicles.
What research is there in the world about the quality of cars?
The most well-known and recognized research on vehicle quality and reliability includes extensive surveys conducted by both automotive magazines and specialist research agencies. These surveys are based on data from car owners and include various aspects such as the number of problems, maintenance costs, satisfaction with the vehicle and build quality. Here are some of the most important pieces of research that car buyers often use to make decisions:
1. JD Power Vehicle Dependability Study
JD Power is one of the most recognized research agencies in the world, engaged in the analysis of customer satisfaction, product quality and consumer behavior. Theirs Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) evaluates the reliability of cars based on feedback from owners after three years of use. The research includes ratings based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), allowing direct comparisons of reliability between different makes and models.
2. What Car? Reliability Survey
British Motoring Magazine What Car? performed annually Reliability Survey, based on the experience of thousands of car owners. This research provides an in-depth look at the problems faced by owners of different makes and models, including repair costs and frequency of breakdowns. The results of the survey are often divided according to the age of the vehicles, which allows a more detailed understanding of the long-term reliability of the cars.
3. Consumer Reports Auto Reliability Survey
Consumer Reports is an independent organization that conducts one of the most in-depth investigations into car reliability. Theirs Auto Reliability Survey includes data from hundreds of thousands of drivers who rate their cars based on various factors such as mechanical failures, electronics, climate systems and more. The research results are very detailed and include reliability estimates for individual models.
4. Auto Express Driver Power Survey
Auto Express, the leading British motoring magazine, conducts annually Driver Power Survey, which focuses on the satisfaction of owners with their vehicles. The research includes ratings of reliability, build quality, maintenance costs and other key factors that affect the ownership experience. Driver Power Survey is highly valued as it offers a comprehensive insight into the experiences of European drivers.
5. ReliabilityIndex by Warranty Direct
ReliabilityIndex, which publishes it Warranty Direct, provides reliability data based on actual repair claims they receive for various cars. This index includes a number of factors, such as the frequency of breakdowns, the cost of repairs and the average age of vehicles subject to problems. The results are available to the public and are very useful for those looking for data on long-term vehicle reliability.
Conclusion: Reliability remains one of the key factors when choosing a car, especially in the European market, where the offer is diverse and the quality is high. Our most reliable cars for 2024 include both Asian manufacturers such as Toyota, Lexus, Mazda and Honda, as well as European manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz. Each of these cars offers something special – from prestige to innovative technology – and all boast reliability that is attested to by owners and automotive experts alike.
Although the automotive industry is changing and new technologies such as electric and hybrid powertrains are being introduced, reliability remains crucial. This list of cars for 2024 proves that it is possible to combine advanced technology, comfort and reliability, which is sure to satisfy the needs of modern drivers on European roads.
