If fuel economy comes first, a full-size SUV isn’t the obvious choice. But if you genuinely need three usable rows, substantial cargo space or serious towing capacity, the better question is: which full-size SUV does the job with the least fuel? For 2026, the answer is surprisingly varied. Diesel, hybrid and turbocharged gasoline powertrains can … Read more
When these SUVs were new in 2024, reliability rankings were partly predictive. Two years later, we have better evidence. Owner surveys, recalls, and real-world mileage now show which early predictions held up, especially as new engines, transmissions, electronics, and software have had time to expose weaknesses. For today’s used buyer, the question is therefore no … Read more
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class can be an excellent used luxury sedan, but powertrain choice matters as much as generation. The 2012 C250 and C350 share a chassis yet carry very different engine-related risks. For reliability, I’d favor the 2012–2014 C350 or 2013–2014 C300 4MATIC, both with naturally aspirated M276 V6 engines. The 2019–2021 C300 offers a … Read more
The Mercedes W221 S-Class is one of the used luxury market’s great temptations. A car that once represented the top of the Mercedes-Benz range can now cost less than an ordinary new compact car. But depreciation only changed the purchase price. The W221 depreciated. Its engineering didn’t. That distinction determines whether an old S-Class becomes … 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
Honda has used CVTs in millions of Civics, Accords, CR-Vs and HR-Vs, yet owner experiences range from trouble-free high-mileage cars to expensive failures. The reason is simple: “Honda CVT” isn’t one transmission—different generations, applications and calibrations have different records, including some affected by recalls, software updates or warranty extensions. So, are Honda CVTs reliable? Generally, … Read more
Car reliability comparisons remain a staple of automotive journalism, consumer decision-making, and industry reputation. Yet, the methods and frameworks used to assess vehicle reliability are far from uniform. A reliability survey that focuses on one-year-old or three-year-old cars can produce results that differ significantly from what drivers experience over a longer period. Meanwhile, the weighting … Read more
Japanese and American auto manufacturers have long competed on the global stage—each with distinct advantages and historical milestones. While American brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and Tesla are known for their pioneering spirit and powerful engines, Japanese automakers including Toyota, Honda, and Nissan consistently lead in global reliability rankings and manufacturing efficiency. This article explores the … Read more
Japanese cars have perhaps the industry’s strongest reliability reputation—and broadly, the reputation is deserved. The mistake is treating it as universal. Toyota, Lexus, and Honda repeatedly produce excellent results, but a Japanese badge doesn’t automatically deliver Toyota-level reliability. Subaru follows a distinct engineering strategy, Mazda’s newer large-vehicle platforms have faced growing pains, while Nissan and … Read more
Toyota or Honda? For decades, both have been among the safest choices for buyers who prioritize reliability and long-term ownership. In 2026, however, Toyota has the edge. Consumer Reports ranks Toyota first for new-car reliability and second for used-car reliability, while Honda ranks fourth in both categories. Toyota also performs strongly in J.D. Power’s latest … Read more