The crossover market is growing rapidly, and for good reason. Crossovers provide car-like driving dynamics, ample interior space, strong levels of capability, and generally better reliability than traditional SUVs. They allow you to load up the family without feeling like you're driving a boat. This blend of benefits makes crossovers an increasingly popular choice.
Among crossovers, full-size models offer the most space for both passengers and cargo. Most of these vehicles are three-row SUVs equipped with powerful, efficient, and reliable powertrains. They are also often more affordable than full-sized SUVs, making them an attractive option for families who need space without the hefty price tag.
For those in search of a full-sized family crossover, we have reviewed some of the most affordable options currently available. Recognizing that reliability is a key factor for family vehicles, we have ranked these models from least to most reliable. Our comprehensive analysis covers their maintenance costs, ensuring you are well-informed for your next dealership visit. Whether you prioritize space, reliability, or affordability, our review will help you find the perfect full-sized crossover for your family.
In compiling this article, we have cross-referenced information about vehicle reliability, maintenance, and pricing from sources like J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, and CarEdge to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Please note that we have ranked the following models based on most reliable to least reliable. Consumer Reports was used as the primary source for reliability scores. Cars are ranked from least to most reliable.
Related
20 Most Reliable SUVs According To Consumer Reports
Be it a new or used car, reliability is an important metric to consider, and here's how some of these latest SUVs fare for predicted reliability.
10 2024 Volkswagen Atlas
Reliability Score: xx/100
Volkswagen has long been hailed as a measure of reliability. However, this has changed over time, and they are now decidedly average. The Volkswagen Atlas is the perfect representation of this, scoring 32 out of 100 for predicted reliability on Consumer Reports. This three-row SUV starts at $37,995. Its spacious interior does earn it points though, with it having one of the most serviceable third-rows of any SUV.
Reliability
The Volkswagen Atlas is below average in terms of reliability, according to Consumer Reports, with a score in the low thirties. CarEdge concurs with this, claiming that the Atlas has a 22.8 percent chance of needing a major repair in its first ten years. Its repair costs are also pretty average over this time, meaning it isn't the most economical crossover choice.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: N/A (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,856 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 38
- Worst Atlas Year To Buy Used: 2018
9 2024 Ford Explorer
Reliability Score: 35/100
Ford may market the Explorer as a fully-fledged SUV, but it's definitely a crossover. While its higher trim levels are certainly exciting, its entry-level trims are exceptionally dull. The Explorer starts at $36,860, though, which at least means it's one of the cheaper options on this list, hence why it is one of the brand's bestsellers.
Reliability
Ford's Explorer is below average when it comes to reliability, with Consumer Reports scoring it 35 out of 100 for predicted reliability. CarEdge claims that the Explorer has a 26.6 percent chance of needing a major repair in its first ten years, which is much higher than the industry standard.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $732 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $9,017 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 67
- Worst ES Year To Buy Used: 2002
8 2024 Chevrolet Traverse
Reliability Score: 36/100
Chevrolet has made the Traverse stand out in the current SUV market by giving it one of the most spacious third rows available. Even adults can comfortably ride in the back, something that can't be said about most crossovers. It may not be as refined as some of its rivals, but it definitely has a couple of really strong points. You can pick up this SUV starting at $37,600.
Add TopSpeed to your Google News feed.
- Follow On
Reliability
One of the weakest points of the Traverse is its reliability. Consumer Reports scores it 36 out of 100 for predicted reliability, which is well below average. CarEdge also claims that the Traverse has a 26.05 percent chance of needing a major repair in its first ten years, which is above average. Its maintenance costs are not the best in its class either.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $656 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,790 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 31
- Worst Traverse Year To Buy Used: 2010
Related
The Most Affordable Crossover With More Than 450 Miles Of Range Per Tank Of Gas
Discover the most affordable crossover with over 450 miles per tank. The Crosstrek offers a perfect blend of cost, efficiency, and performance.
7 2024 Subaru Ascent
Reliability Score: 49/100
The three-row SUV market is incredibly competitive and the 2024 Subaru Ascent struggles to stand out. Its affordable starting price tag of $34,395 is one of its strongest points, as is the fact that it comes standard with all-wheel drive. However, its third row of seating is cramped, and its powertrain is just underpowered for the segment.
Reliability
Subaru hasn't always been considered a very reliable brand, hence why the Ascent is about average, with a predicted reliability score of 49 out of 100. On average, it will need a major repair more frequently than its rivals, with CarEdge claiming it has a 23.97 percent chance of needing one in its first ten years.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: N/A (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,160 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 12
- Worst Ascent Year To Buy Used: 2019
6 2024 Nissan Murano
Reliability Score: 50/100
Like much of Nissan's lineup, the Murano's biggest weakness is that it is rapidly aging. It features outdated technology and an inefficient powertrain. Where it does excel, though, is that it has a unique presence on the road. Its interior is also pretty comfortable, and it comes well-equipped even in its base form. The Murano starts at $38,740 for 2024.
Reliability
The Murano sits right on the average line in terms of its predicted reliability score from Consumer Reports. CarEdge claims that it has a 22.22 percent chance of needing a major repair in its first ten years of service, which is almost exactly average. At least its repair costs are slightly below the industry standard.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $507 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,577 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 21
- Worst Murano Year To Buy Used: 2005
5 2024 Honda Pilot
Reliability Score: 50/100
Honda is pretty well known for making reliable cars, which is why it's surprising to see the Honda Pilot so low down in this list. Despite this, it is a pretty well-equipped SUV, even coming with a smooth V-6 as standard as well as tons of cargo space. Its TrailSport trim offers some genuine off-road capability as well. You can pick up a 2024 Pilot for $37,090.
Reliability
Honda's three-row SUV scores 50 out of 100 for predicted reliability, according to Consumer Reports. This lines up with CarEdge's findings, which state that the Pilot has a 21.05 percent chance of needing a major repair in its first ten years, almost exactly average. You will spend slightly less on maintenance compared to the average SUV, though.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $542 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,373 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 54
- Worst Pilot Year To Buy Used: 2016
Related
The Honda That Outsells The Accord
With higher unit sales and annual growth rates, the CR-V's success can be attributed to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness.
4 2024 Kia Telluride
Reliability Score: 54/100
The Telluride is making massive waves right now. It meets the needs of people shopping in the three-row midsize segment better than almost any other car. The base model starts at $36,190 and is stacked with features from the word go. Its higher-level trims also manage to threaten some luxury SUVs.
Reliability
The main downside to the Kia Telluride is that it isn't the most reliable car in this segment. Consumer Reports awards it 54 out of 100 for predicted reliability. CarEdge claims the Telluride has a 23.71 percent chance of needing a major repair in its first ten years of service, which is slightly worse than average.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: N/A (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,069 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 12
- Worst Telluride Year To Buy Used: 2020
3 2024 Mazda CX-90
Reliability Score: 67/100
Mazda has completely shifted its place in the market in the last couple of years. Where they used to be a budget brand on par with Toyota and Honda, they have started infiltrating the luxury segment. The new three-row CX-90 is the perfect example of this. Its cabin is one of the most luxurious at this price point and its new powertrain matches its sporty handling perfectly. The 2024 CX-90 starts at $37,845.
Reliability
Mazda's reliability is something that has always been a big selling point for the brand, and it's something that they have maintained. The CX-90 scores decently above average, with a 67 out of 100 for predicted reliability. The CX-90 is brand new for 2024, so there isn't really any data on its maintenance costs. If it's anything like the model it replaces, it should score about average at least.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: N/A (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: N/A (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 5
- Worst CX-90 Year To Buy Used: N/A
2 2024 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Score: 69/100
Moving into the modern era, no brand has held onto its reputation for affordability and reliability in the same way Toyota has. Their full-size crossover, the Highlander, is the perfect example of this. It comes with an abundance of safety features, a powertrain that is super efficient, and a ton of interior space. You can get all of this for a starting price of $39,270.
Reliability
The Highlander scores well above average with a 69 out of 100 for reliability, according to Consumer Reports. CarEdge claims that there is a 16.08 percent chance the Highlander will need a major repair in its first ten years, which is almost 5.5 percent lower than the average rival. The biggest upside to owning a Toyota, though, is that average maintenance costs are always well below what you would expect to pay with other brands.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $489 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,771 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 42
- Worst Highlander Year To Buy Used: 2006
Related
Toyota, Subaru, Mazda Officially Announce Partnership To Codevelop New ICE and Electric Powertrains
This joint venture commences a new era of propulsion development as automakers continue pushing for carbon neutrality and electrification.
1 Hyundai Palisade
Reliability Score: 73/100
Hyundai's Palisade is as close as you can get to perfect when you're considering three-row full-size crossovers. It comes loaded with features and technology, has a spacious interior, and a really attractive starting price of $36,650. TopSpeed's Chris Chin drove an entry-spec rental cross-country and loved it. Unlike its cousin at Kia, the Telluride, the Palisade also benefits from Hyundai's generous warranties and their three-year complimentary maintenance plan.
Chris ChinAutomotive Journalist
The ride is luxury car smooth, especially with the SEL's smaller 18-inch wheels, while body motions on all axes exhibit the sort of balance and control typically found on far more expensive vehicles with more pedigree. The steering is accurate and decently weighted, though with the less aggressive wheel and tire combination, hard cornering does take a bit of a step with slightly more pronounced understeer and less road feel.
Reliability
Consumer Reports ranks the Palisade among some of the most reliable cars this year, scoring it 73 out of 100 for predicted reliability. CarEdge does mention, though, that there is a 23.97 percent chance that the Palisade will need a major repair in its first ten years. Maintenance costs aren't the cheapest on the Palisade, but if you buy one new, you don't have to worry about that for the first three years.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: N/A (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,180 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 10
- Worst Palisade Year To Buy Used: 2020
