The 2005 Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor remains an appealing inexpensive entry into older Mercedes ownership. Its 189-hp supercharged four-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive chassis and available six-speed manual give it more character than its current price suggests. But one mechanical weakness can change the ownership equation: the M271 engine’s timing chain and camshaft-adjuster sprockets can wear enough to cause … Read more
Here is our updated list of the most reliable AMG cars, revised to prioritize proven powertrains, mechanical simplicity, and long-term durability. If reliability comes first, the M113 V8 era remains an excellent place to start, combining a proven naturally aspirated engine with fewer layers of complexity than later turbocharged AMGs; several models also used Mercedes’ … Read more
The RAV4 and CR-V remain obvious reliability candidates, but 2026 brings important engineering changes. Toyota has redesigned the RAV4 around an all-electrified lineup, Mazda has introduced a new CX-5 generation, and Subaru continues expanding hybridization. That means historical nameplate reputation isn’t enough. Reliability belongs to the specific generation and powertrain. For established engineering, I’d start … Read more
The Sequoia has an exceptional durability reputation, but older generations—especially the 5.7-liter V8 models—earned much of it. The 2026 Sequoia’s twin-turbo hybrid powertrain is fundamentally different and hasn’t accumulated comparable long-term evidence. Its competitors face similar uncertainty. The Armada now uses a turbocharged V6, while GM has dealt with documented problems involving certain earlier 6.2-liter … Read more
The GL450 can be an appealing used three-row luxury SUV, but reliability depends heavily on the engine and model year. U.S. versions used three distinct powertrains: the M273 naturally aspirated V8, M278 twin-turbo V8, and later M276 twin-turbo V6. If I were buying one today, I’d start with a well-maintained 2015–2016 M276-powered GL450. A sorted … Read more
The E350 BlueTEC’s 3.0-liter OM642 turbodiesel V6 can cover substantial mileage, but engine durability doesn’t make the entire car trouble-free. Oil cooler seals, intake swirl mechanisms, the DPF, and AdBlue/SCR hardware can generate expensive repairs even while the engine itself remains mechanically healthy. That’s the key distinction for used buyers: a durable diesel engine doesn’t … Read more
For fuel-efficient midsize SUVs in 2026, hybrids set the benchmark. The Kia Sorento Hybrid reaches 37 mpg combined in its most efficient configuration, with the Grand Highlander Hybrid, Santa Fe Hybrid, and Highlander Hybrid close behind. But MPG alone shouldn’t decide the purchase. The Grand Highlander offers more useful three-row space, Toyota brings extensive hybrid … Read more
The Toyota Sequoia leads iSeeCars’ September 2026 longevity study with an estimated 42.3% chance of reaching 250,000 miles, followed by the Toyota 4Runner at 33.1% and Lexus RX Hybrid at 28.9%. The study analyzed more than 395 million vehicles, while the average SUV scored just 4.8%. But longevity alone doesn’t determine the smartest long-term purchase. … Read more
Toyota’s challenge with the sixth-generation 4Runner was unusual: replace an aging platform whose 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic were outdated but thoroughly proven. The new 4Runner is clearly more advanced, adding the TNGA-F platform, turbocharged power, an eight-speed automatic, available hybrid assistance, and considerably more electronics. As a new vehicle, it’s better in most measurable … Read more
For decades, the Japanese vs American debate had a familiar script. Japanese manufacturers built efficient, durable cars; Detroit built trucks, large SUVs, and powerful engines. There was enough truth behind those stereotypes to keep them alive. But the U.S. auto industry has changed dramatically. Toyota and Honda now manufacture millions of vehicles and components in … Read more