Credit: Subaru

As vehicle prices reach record highs, consumers need reliable data to make informed choices. Consumer Reports (CR) has released its comprehensive 2025 Automotive Report Card, providing valuable insights into car brand reliability, performance, and satisfaction. Subaru has claimed the top spot for brand reliability, overtaking Lexus and Toyota, which have traditionally dominated these rankings.

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CR’s 2025 Automotive Report Card

The report evaluates over 200 new vehicles based on CR’s exclusive road test scores, reliability predictions, owner satisfaction data, and safety performance. This year’s findings were drawn from a survey of nearly 300,000 vehicles, covering model years 2000 through 2024, with a few early 2025 models.

Visitors to CR’s automotive hub can explore detailed brand-level rankings for metrics like reliability, owner satisfaction, and maintenance costs. CR members gain access to deeper insights, including recommended models sorted by powertrain, drivetrain, and seating configuration.

Subaru’s Ascent to the Top

Subaru’s rise to first place in CR’s reliability rankings is attributed to the brand’s cautious redesign approach and consistent use of dependable components across its lineup. Six of Subaru’s seven models achieved average or above-average reliability scores, with the Forester and Impreza leading the pack. The exception is the Solterra EV, a joint venture with Toyota, which received a below-average rating.

“Subaru’s conservative engineering strategy has paid off,” said Steven Elek, who oversees auto data analytics at Consumer Reports. “By sharing proven components across models, Subaru minimizes the risk of introducing new issues.”

Toyota and Lexus followed Subaru in second and third place, respectively, despite strong performances from most of their models. Reliability challenges with Toyota’s Tacoma, Tundra, and bZ4X EV impacted its overall ranking.

Hybrids Lead Reliability, EVs Show Improvement

The report highlights significant reliability trends in powertrains:

• Hybrids match the reliability of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, even with their added complexity. Top hybrid brands—Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, and Toyota—earned high marks.
• EVs and Plug-In Hybrids (PHEVs) are making strides, with problem rates declining by nearly half compared to last year. EVs now report 42% more issues than ICE vehicles, down from 79% last year.
• Some EVs, like the Rivian R1S and Ford F-150 Lightning, still show below-average reliability. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC60 PHEV saw improvements, earning CR’s recommendation.

“Hybrid technology has come a long way, offering efficiency and reliability without compromise,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of CR’s Auto Test Center. “Meanwhile, EV reliability continues to improve as the technology matures.”

Broader Rankings

Beyond reliability, Subaru also topped CR’s 2025 Auto Brand Report Card, which combines road test scores, predicted reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety data. BMW secured second place, followed by Lexus, Porsche, and Honda. Rivian led the owner satisfaction survey but ranked near the bottom overall due to reliability concerns.

Guidance for Car Shoppers

While brand rankings provide a solid starting point, CR emphasizes the importance of examining specific models. Even high-ranking brands may have outliers with lower reliability.

For the full report and rankings, visit CR.org/cars.