Consumer Reports recently released its 2022 vehicle reliability rankings. Surprisingly, two Japanese automakers came out on top: Toyota and Lexus. But how does CR determine its vehicle reliability rankings and how do the top brands snag their spots? Read on to find out.
A look at Consumer Reports’ 2022 vehicle reliability rankings
Consumer Reports calculates a vehicle’s reliability rating based on feedback from owners. It gets the information it uses to calculate its score by asking its members to provide data on any vehicle problems they’ve experienced in the previous 12 months. CR analysts use the data to address 17 problem areas, including transmissions, in-car electronics and engines.
“Brands are ranked on average predicted reliability based on Consumer Reports member surveys,” explains CR. And ratings are calculated on a 100-point scale. The average rating given by a manufacturer falls in the 40-to-60-point range.
Surprisingly, Consumer Reports approves of Asian manufacturers on reliability. CR says these car companies “still lead reliability by a wide margin, with an overall reliability average score of 59 for the region.”
Toyota, Lexus and BMW are the most reliable automakers on this year’s list. The ranking represents a slight improvement for Toyota and a drop for Lexus, which previously held the top spot.
Consumer Reports survey confirms Toyota is 2022 most reliable car brand
It’s clear that Toyota is nothing if not reliable. Consumer Reports notes that “every Toyota model, except two, has above- or better-above-average reliability.”
The Avalon Hybrid scored the highest among Toyota models on Consumer Reports’ list of reliability scores. The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid is in second place. Both achieved near-perfect results in their road tests. The Avalon Hybrid also scored exceptionally high in predicted owner satisfaction.
However, Toyota pickup trucks were not as successful in reliability rankings. They scored at the bottom of the pack of brands. Nevertheless, overall, Toyota continues to be a manufacturer that knows how to please customers.
Lexus is also very reliable, according to Consumer Reports
The Lexus earned high marks from Consumer Reports for its reliability, though not as high as the Toyota. The luxury car maker slipped slightly in the ranking to second place. A few Lexus hybrids have boosted the brand’s reliability rankings, which bodes well for the automaker’s future in that market.
“Among the top five brands, Lexus stood out as all of its models had above-average or better reliability this year, again led by the long-running GX SUV,” notes Consumer Reports. The two Lexus hybrid models stand out above the rest for their ability to stay out of repair shops and generally provide a satisfying experience to owners. The first is the 2023 Lexus NX Hybrid, which earned the highest reliability score of any Lexus model CR surveyed. It received the highest possible rating for predicted owner satisfaction.
Another Lexus model that scored incredibly well in terms of reliability is the 2023 EX Hybrid, which ranks slightly below the NX.
After all, Japanese hybrids are making a name for themselves in reliability. Their high ranking on the Consumer Reports list speaks to the engineering solidity behind these vehicles. So if you’re in the market for a reliable new car, check out a Toyota or Lexus hybrid.