In an era of rising vehicle prices and increasing focus on sustainability, the longevity of a vehicle has become a crucial factor for many buyers. The latest iSeeCars.com study sheds light on which vehicles have the best chance of reaching the impressive milestone of 250,000 miles and beyond. This comprehensive analysis offers invaluable insights for consumers looking to make a smart, long-term investment in the next vehicle purchase.
The annual iSeeCars.com study found these 23 top-ranked vehicles have a 20 percent or better chance of reaching a quarter million miles
Summary
The iSeeCars.com Longest-Lasting Cars study, now in its tenth year, has expanded its focus to identify vehicles with the greatest likelihood of reaching 250,000 miles or more. This shift reflects the increasing durability and reliability of modern vehicles. The study analyzed over 260 million cars sold between 2012 and 2022, providing a robust dataset for predicting vehicle longevity.
Key findings from the study include:
- 10 out of the 23 longest-lasting vehicles are pickup trucks
- Toyota dominates the list with 8 models
- The Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Sequoia, and Honda Pilot are the longest-lasting SUVs
- Three passenger cars make the list: Honda Accord, Toyota Avalon, and Toyota Camry
- The average vehicle has only an 11.8% chance of lasting 250,000 miles
These results demonstrate that certain vehicle types and brands consistently outperform others in terms of longevity. Let’s dive deeper into the specifics of these long-lasting vehicles.
Top 23 Longest-Lasting Cars: Trucks and Toyotas Dominate the List
The study reveals that trucks and Toyota models make up over half of the top 23 longest-lasting vehicles. SUVs are also well-represented, with 8 models cutting. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 vehicles with the highest chance of reaching 250,000 miles:
- Ford F-350 Super Duty (49.1%)
- Toyota Land Cruiser (47.9%)
- Toyota Tundra (47.9%)
- Toyota Sequoia (47.1%)
- Ford F-250 Super Duty (43.6%)
- Honda Pilot (42.7%)
- Toyota Tacoma (41.7%)
- GMC Sierra 2500HD (41.3%)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD (41.2%)
- Toyota 4Runner (41.0%)
These top 10 vehicles all have more than a 40% chance of reaching the quarter-million-mile mark, significantly outperforming the average vehicle’s 11.8% chance.
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Karl Brauer, Executive Analyst at iSeeCars.com, notes, “Vehicle lifespans continue to grow, with more than 20 cars now having a 20 percent or better chance of lasting at least a quarter million miles. For most of the automobile’s history, 100,000 miles was considered the maximum usable lifespan. Over the past 30 years, we’ve watched an increasing number of cars reach 200,000-plus miles, and for our tenth Longest-Lasting Cars Study, we’ve expanded our analysis to predict which vehicles have the greatest likelihood of reaching 250,000 miles or more.“
Longest-Lasting Pickup Trucks: Heavy-Duty Models Lead the Way
Pickup trucks, particularly heavy-duty models, dominate the list of longest-lasting vehicles. The average truck has a 25.9% chance of making it to 250,000 miles or more, with nine models surpassing this average. Here are the top 5 longest-lasting pickup trucks:
- Ford F-350 Super Duty (49.1%)
- Toyota Tundra (47.9%)
- Ford F-250 Super Duty (43.6%)
- Toyota Tacoma (41.7%)
- GMC Sierra 2500HD (41.3%)
It’s worth noting that while heavy-duty trucks lead the pack, some light-duty models like the Toyota Tundra and Toyota Tacoma also demonstrate exceptional longevity. This speaks to Toyota’s reputation for building durable and reliable vehicles across various segments.
Brauer explains, “It’s not surprising to see so many trucks, including heavy-duty trucks, on this list. Trucks like the Ford F-Series Super Duty are work vehicles, often purchased by businesses to serve as a key resource driving a company’s success.“
Other notable mentions in the pickup truck category include the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Avalanche, and Ram 2500. These models all have a better-than-average chance of reaching 250,000 miles, making them solid choices for consumers prioritizing longevity in their truck purchases.
Longest-Lasting SUVs: 14 Models That Are Better Than the Average SUV
SUVs offer a diverse range of options for consumers seeking long-lasting vehicles. From compact models to full-size SUVs, there’s a durable option for every preference. The top 5 longest-lasting SUVs are:
- Toyota Land Cruiser (47.9%)
- Toyota Sequoia (47.1%)
- Honda Pilot (42.7%)
- Toyota 4Runner (41.0%)
- Acura MDX (29.2%)
Other notable mentions include the Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback, and GMC Yukon XL. These SUVs demonstrate that durability isn’t limited to a single size class or price point, offering consumers a wide range of choices when prioritizing longevity.
Brauer comments on the consistent performance of certain models: “We’ve also seen models like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Sequoia consistently displaying a long potential lifespan when looking at the market data.”
The diversity of long-lasting SUVs is impressive, ranging from the compact Honda Element to the large GMC Yukon XL. This variety offers everything from fuel efficiency to off-road prowess to maximum passenger comfort. While Toyota is the most common brand to make the list, Acura, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Honda, Nissan, and Subaru are also represented.
Longest-Lasting Cars: Compact, Midsize, Large, and Luxury Models
While passenger cars generally have a lower chance of reaching 250,000 miles compared to trucks and For For SUVs, several models stand out for their exceptional durability. The average car has an 8.6% chance of reaching this milestone, but the following models significantly outperform this average:
- Toyota Avalon (33.1%)
- Honda Accord (27.1%)
- Toyota Camry (20.4%)
- Toyota Matrix (16.7%)
- Subaru Legacy (16.2%)
These results showcase the dominance of Japanese brands in producing long-lasting passenger cars. However, it’s important to note that some European models, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta, also demonstrate above-average durability.
The spectrum of long-lasting cars includes sedans and hatchbacks of every size and price range, along with a few luxury brands. Models like the Lexus GS 300, Acura RL, and Audi A8 L represent the luxury segment, proving that premium vehicles can also offer impressive longevity.
It’s worth noting that while only 8.6% of cars will make it to 250,000 miles or more, the models listed above significantly outperform this average. This demonstrates that with the right choice, car buyers can find passenger vehicles that offer exceptional longevity.
Longest-Lasting Minivans: Narrow List, Wide Range of Durability
While the minivan segment offers fewer options, there’s a significant disparity in the longevity of different models. The top 3 longest-lasting minivans are:
- Toyota Sienna (23.3%)
- Honda Odyssey (13.8%)
- Chrysler Town and Country (6.8%)
The Toyota Sienna stands out with its impressive 23.3% chance of reaching 250,000 miles, significantly outperforming the average minivan’s 5.9% chance. This underscores Toyota’s consistent performance across various vehicle categories when it comes to longevity.
It’s interesting to note the wide range of durability within this category. While the Toyota Sienna has a 23.3% chance of reaching 250,000 miles, the Nissan Quest, at the other end of the spectrum, has only a 3.5% chance. This highlights the importance of choosing wisely when looking for a long-lasting minivan.
The Longest-Lasting Auto Brands
When considering brand reliability as a whole, nine automakers demonstrated an above-average likelihood of their vehicles lasting 250,000 miles or more. The top 5 longest-lasting brands are:
- Toyota (19.5%)
- Chevrolet (19.2%)
- Honda (17.2%)
- GMC (15.9%)
- Ram (14.9%)
These results highlight the strong performance of Japanese and American brands in producing durable vehicles. Toyota’s top position reinforces its reputation for reliability across its entire lineup.
Brauer notes, “The spectrum of long-lasting brands includes both luxury and mainstream nameplates, and within those brands every type of vehicle is available.”
Other brands that performed above average include Acura, Ford, Subaru, and Lexus. This diverse list offers consumers a wide range of options when looking for a brand known for producing long-lasting vehicles.
Our Latest Studies
To provide a broader context of the automotive industry and consumer trends, let’s briefly explore some other recent studies conducted by iSeeCars.com:
Prices of Used EVs Drop Below Used Gas Cars for the First Time
In a significant shift in the used car market, electric vehicles (EVs) have become more affordable than their gasoline counterparts for the first time. This trend could have far-reaching implications for the adoption of electric vehicles and the future of the automotive industry.
Cars Are Half as Colorful as They Were 20 Years Ago
An interesting study reveals that the color palette of cars on the road has become significantly less diverse over the past two decades. This trend reflects changing consumer preferences and potentially impacts resale values and personal expression through vehicle choice.
Tesla, Porsche, and Lucid Have the Most Projected Lifetime Recalls; Mini, Lexus, and Mercedes have the Least
This study provides valuable insights into the long-term reliability and maintenance expectations for various car brands. It’s worth noting that some luxury and performance brands may require more attention over their lifetime, while others demonstrate exceptional reliability.
Electric Cars Are Driven the Least While Costing the Most
An intriguing finding reveals that despite their higher initial cost, electric vehicles tend to be driven less than their gasoline-powered counterparts. This information could be crucial for consumers weighing the cost-benefit analysis of switching to an electric vehicle.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision for Long-Term Value
The iSeeCars.com Longest-Lasting Cars study provides invaluable insights for consumers looking to make a smart, long-term investment in their next vehicle purchase. Here are some key takeaways:
- Trucks and SUVs dominate the list of longest-lasting vehicles, with many models having a 40% or higher chance of reaching 250,000 miles.
- Toyota consistently produces durable vehicles across various segments, from trucks and SUVs to passenger cars and minivans.
- Heavy-duty pickup trucks from Ford, GMC, and Chevrolet demonstrate exceptional longevity, making them excellent choices for those who need a workhorse vehicle.
- While passenger cars generally have a lower chance of reaching high mileage, models like the Toyota Avalon, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry stand out for their durability.
- In the minivan segment, the Toyota Sienna significantly outperforms its competitors in terms of longevity.
When shopping for a vehicle with longevity in mind, consider the following factors:
- Brand reputation: Toyota, Honda, and Chevrolet consistently produce long-lasting vehicles across various segments.
- Vehicle type: Trucks and SUVs generally have a higher chance of reaching high mileage compared to passenger cars.
- Maintenance history: Regular maintenance is crucial for maximizing a vehicle’s lifespan, regardless of make or model.
- Intended use: Consider how you plan to use the vehicle and choose a model that aligns with your needs while offering good longevity prospects.
By taking these factors into account and referencing the data from the iSeeCars.com study, you can make an informed decision that balances your immediate needs with long-term value. Remember that while these statistics provide valuable guidance, proper maintenance, and care play a crucial role in determining how long any vehicle will last.
As Brauer points out, “The cost of new and used cars has never been higher, which means a long vehicle lifespan has never been more appealing to buyers on a budget. Looking through the study’s rankings confirms the many choices buyers have when seeking a longest-lasting car, truck, or SUV.“
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, with the rise of electric vehicles and advancing technology, it will be interesting to see how these longevity trends shift in the coming years. For now, consumers have a wealth of options when it comes to choosing a vehicle that can go the distance, potentially saving money and providing peace of mind for years to come.
Whether you’re in the market for a rugged pickup truck like the Ford F-350 Super Duty, a versatile SUV like the Toyota Land Cruiser, or a reliable sedan like the Honda Accord, the data from this study can help guide your decision. By choosing a vehicle with a proven track record of longevity, you’re not just buying a car – you’re investing in your future mobility and financial well-being.
FAQs
What SUV has the longest lifespan?
According to the iSeeCars.com study, the Toyota Land Cruiser has the longest lifespan among SUVs, with a 47.9% chance of reaching 250,000 miles or more. This is closely followed by the Toyota Sequoia at 47.1%, demonstrating Toyota’s dominance in producing long-lasting SUVs.
What is the longest-lasting truck?
The Ford F-350 Super Duty takes the top spot as the longest-lasting truck, with a 49.1% chance of reaching 250,000 miles or more. It’s followed by the Toyota Tundra at 47.9%, showing that both American and Japanese manufacturers produce highly durable trucks.
Which brand of car lasts the longest?
Based on the study’s findings, Toyota emerges as the brand with the longest-lasting vehicles overall, with a 19.5% chance of its vehicles reaching 250,000 miles or more. This is closely followed by Chevrolet at 19.2% and Honda at 17.2%, indicating that Japanese and American brands lead in vehicle longevity.
What large SUV lasts the longest?
The Toyota Sequoia stands out as the longest-lasting large SUV, with a 47.1% chance of reaching 250,000 miles or more. It’s worth noting that the Toyota Land Cruiser, while slightly smaller, actually has a marginally higher chance at 47.9%, further cementing Toyota’s reputation for building durable large SUVs.
