Consumer Reports Unveils First-Ever Used Car Brand Ranking
Consumer Reports has released its inaugural brand ranking for used vehicles, placing Lexus as the top performer, followed by Toyota. Mazda, Acura, and Honda also ranked highly, while Ford, GMC, Ram, Jeep, Tesla, Dodge, and Chrysler fell towards the bottom, with Chrysler taking the last spot.
Reliability Scores Drive Brand Rankings
According to Consumer Reports, the rankings are based on the reliability of 5 to 10-year-old vehicles, as determined by its annual auto surveys. Data from over 150,000 vehicles from model years 2014 to 2019 was analyzed. Higher-ranked brands have shown a consistent track record of producing vehicles with fewer reported problems over time.
Top 10 Used Car Picks for Under $20,000
In addition to the brand rankings, Consumer Reports also announced its 10 Top Used Car Picks for vehicles under $20,000. These selections include a range of sedans, SUVs, and pickups, all priced below $20,000 and boasting above-average reliability ratings. Two hybrid models made the list: the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid and the 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The 2015 Toyota Tacoma was awarded the honor for best pickup under $20,000.
Why Reliability Matters for Used Car Buyers
Consumer Reports emphasizes the importance of reliability when purchasing a used car. By choosing vehicles from brands with proven track records, buyers can minimize the risk of costly repairs, reduce the likelihood of encountering problems, and extend the life of their vehicle.
Broadening Used Car Insights
The used car market has become increasingly popular, with 40% of car shoppers considering buying used vehicles exclusively. To meet this growing demand, Consumer Reports is expanding its ratings and recommendations to include used car insights. By leveraging data from its member surveys, Consumer Reports provides valuable information to help buyers make informed decisions about their used car purchases.
Finding Reliable Used Vehicles within the Top Picks
While the exact model years selected for the Top Picks may not be readily available, Consumer Reports offers a solution. By considering vehicles from the same generation or years that a specific design was offered, buyers can find similar levels of quality and reliability at more affordable prices. Conversely, buyers may also discover newer models within the same generation that provide even better value.
