Which SUV Has the Highest Quality in 2025?

The Lexus RX stands out as the highest-quality SUV for most buyers in 2025, combining class-leading reliability, refined build quality, strong safety credentials, and low ownership costs. Depending on your priorities and budget, top-quality alternatives include the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester among mainstream models, and the Lexus NX, Porsche Cayenne, and BMW X5 in luxury segments. This article explains how “quality” is measured, why the RX leads overall, and which SUVs excel in specific niches.

How “quality” is measured—and why it matters

“Quality” in an SUV spans more than plush materials or a quiet cabin. Analysts, testers, and owners evaluate quality through reliability over time, ease of use, safety performance, build precision, and total cost of ownership. Understanding these pillars helps identify the models that deliver the most trouble-free, satisfying experience.

• Long-term reliability and dependability: How often vehicles need repairs over several years; historically, Lexus and Toyota lead independent rankings.
• Build quality and fit-and-finish: Panel alignment, material durability, switchgear feel, and cabin quietness.
• Safety: Crash-test scores (IIHS, NHTSA), active-safety features, and how seamlessly they work day to day.
• Driving refinement: Ride comfort, noise levels, steering and braking feel, and powertrain smoothness.
• Technology and usability: Intuitive controls, responsive infotainment, and driver-assistance systems that help rather than hinder.
• Ownership costs: Fuel economy (including hybrids), warranty coverage, depreciation, insurance, and maintenance.

Taken together, these factors separate SUVs that merely impress on a test drive from those that continue to feel solid and satisfying after years of use.

The top contenders for highest-quality SUV in 2025

Overall winner for most buyers: Lexus RX (midsize luxury)

The Lexus RX continues to set the benchmark for real-world quality in 2025. Independent surveys consistently rank Lexus at or near the top for reliability and dependability, and the current RX generation adds modern tech while maintaining the brand’s hallmark refinement. Key trims include the efficient RX 350h hybrid and the more powerful RX 500h; a plug-in RX 450h+ offers limited all-electric range with typical Lexus smoothness.

Why it leads: exceptionally low defect rates over time, quiet and comfortable ride, high resale value, comprehensive safety tech that’s easy to live with, and an interior that feels tightly assembled. If your definition of “quality” emphasizes trouble-free ownership and day-to-day polish, the RX is the safest bet.

Best mainstream compact: Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester

For buyers who want top quality without luxury pricing, the Honda CR-V and the 2025 Subaru Forester are standouts. Both prioritize practicality, safety, and long-term reliability, with cabins that punch above their price points.

• Honda CR-V: Spacious interior, excellent ride-and-handling balance, and strong reliability track record. The CR-V Hybrid boosts efficiency without sacrificing refinement.
• Subaru Forester (2025): Superb outward visibility, standard all-wheel drive, and consistently high safety marks. The latest model emphasizes durability and ease of use over flash.

Either model will feel solid for years, with the CR-V offering the more upscale road manners and the Forester excelling in all-weather confidence and practicality.

Luxury compact choice: Lexus NX

In the luxury compact segment, the Lexus NX is a quality leader thanks to predictable reliability, comfortable ride quality, and a user-friendly tech setup that has improved markedly in recent years. The NX 350h hybrid is notably efficient, while the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivers quick acceleration and EV commuting capability.

Performance-luxury benchmark: Porsche Cayenne

The refreshed Porsche Cayenne blends top-tier build precision with exceptional driving dynamics. Owners praise its materials, switchgear, and road composure. While reliability can vary more than Lexus, the Cayenne sets a high bar for perceived quality and craftsmanship, especially for drivers who value engagement along with refinement.

Well-rounded midsize luxury alternative: BMW X5

The BMW X5 offers a plush, quiet cabin, advanced driver assists, and class-leading powertrains, including a strong plug-in hybrid. Build quality is excellent, and recent updates improved tech usability. Reliability has been mixed across years, but many owners rate its interior quality and driving polish as among the class best.

Durable body-on-frame options: Lexus GX and Lexus LX

For buyers prioritizing rugged longevity, the redesigned Lexus GX (2024–) and the Lexus LX continue to emphasize durable construction, exceptional long-term support, and high build integrity. They’re not the most efficient, but they feel hewn-from-solid, with interiors that wear well and drivetrains engineered for the long haul.

Why the Lexus RX takes the crown

Multiple independent benchmarks over the past decade have shown Lexus leading or near the top for both initial trouble rates and multi-year dependability, and the RX is consistently one of the brand’s strongest performers. It couples that track record with a calm ride, quiet cabin, intuitive safety tech, and excellent resale value—attributes that matter daily and compound over years of ownership. While some rivals offer sharper handling or flashier cabins, few match the RX’s total-quality equation for most drivers.

Key trade-offs to consider

Choosing “the highest quality” SUV also means balancing competing strengths. The picks below highlight common trade-offs so you can align the vehicle’s character with your priorities.

• Ride comfort vs. handling: Lexus RX prioritizes isolation; Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5 feel sportier but can ride firmer on big wheels.
• Reliability vs. cutting-edge tech: First-year redesigns or complex infotainment can increase teething issues; proven powertrains typically fare better.
• Efficiency vs. capability: Hybrids (CR-V, RX 350h) cut fuel costs; body-on-frame SUVs (GX, LX) excel at towing and off-road durability but drink more fuel.
• Upfront price vs. ownership cost: Luxury models cost more to buy and insure; reliable hybrids can deliver lower total cost over time.

Clarifying these trade-offs ahead of time helps you pick an SUV that feels high quality not just in the showroom but throughout its life cycle.

How to choose the highest-quality SUV for you

Use a structured approach to avoid being swayed by surface impressions. The following checklist focuses on the elements that most affect ownership satisfaction and long-term value.

1. Set priorities: Rank reliability, comfort, performance, efficiency, and tech in order of importance.
2. Favor established powertrains: Proven engines and hybrids tend to have fewer problems than first-year designs.
3. Verify safety: Look for top IIHS/NHTSA ratings and driver aids that operate smoothly and intuitively.
4. Test usability: Evaluate seat comfort, visibility, cargo flexibility, and infotainment responsiveness.
5. Total cost: Compare fuel, insurance, maintenance, and expected resale; hybrids often win here.
6. Warranty and support: Longer coverage (e.g., powertrain warranties, hybrid system warranties) adds peace of mind.

A disciplined, data-first selection process surfaces SUVs that remain satisfying well beyond the first year of ownership.

Bottom line

If you want the safest overall bet on quality in 2025, choose the Lexus RX. For mainstream buyers, the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester deliver a similar quality ethos without luxury pricing. Shoppers seeking a high-precision luxury feel should consider the Porsche Cayenne or BMW X5, with the caveat that long-term reliability typically favors Lexus.

Summary

The highest-quality SUV for most buyers in 2025 is the Lexus RX, reflecting an unmatched blend of reliability, build integrity, safety, comfort, and ownership economy. Mainstream leaders include the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, while the Lexus NX, Porsche Cayenne, BMW X5, and Lexus GX/LX excel for specific preferences and use cases. Define your priorities, verify safety and reliability data, and choose proven powertrains to ensure your “highest quality” SUV stays that way for years.

What is the best quality luxury SUV?

The “best quality” luxury SUV depends on your specific needs, but top-rated options for 2025 include the Genesis GV80 for mid-size luxury, the Lincoln Navigator for full-size, and the BMW iX as a strong electric choice. For compact segments, the Genesis GV70 is highly rated, while the BMW X1 leads the subcompact luxury SUVs. Brands known for reliability and quality in the luxury segment include Lexus, Acura, and BMW. 
Top Picks by Category

• Mid-Size Luxury: Opens in new tabThe Genesis GV80 receives high praise for its quality and features, while the BMW X5 is a consistently strong performer. 
• Full-Size Luxury: Opens in new tabThe Lincoln Navigator offers a blend of luxury, capability, and space, making it a top choice for families. 
• Compact Luxury: Opens in new tabThe Genesis GV70 is a standout for its excellent mix of style, technology, and value. 
• Electric Luxury: Opens in new tabThe BMW iX is considered one of the best electric SUVs, offering significant range and performance. 
• Subcompact Luxury: Opens in new tabThe BMW X1 is recognized for its practicality, quality, and enjoyable driving dynamics. 

Brands Known for Quality & Reliability

• Lexus: Consistently ranks high for its reliability. 
• Acura: Also known for producing high-quality and reliable luxury SUVs. 
• BMW: A strong performer in both quality and driving experience across various segments. 
• Genesis: Has quickly established itself as a high-quality luxury brand, with the GV80 and GV70 earning top ratings. 

What is the number one most reliable SUV?

There is no single “number 1” most reliable SUV, as reliability varies by vehicle class and is measured by different organizations like U.S. News & World Report and J.D. Power. However, models frequently cited for high reliability include the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the Honda CR-V, the Cadillac XT5, and the Infiniti QX80. Toyota and Honda are consistently ranked among the most reliable brands.
 
Here are some of the top-rated reliable SUVs by category: 
For Overall Reliability (Brand): 

• Toyota: and Honda are consistently ranked among the most dependable brands, with models like the Highlander, Sequoia, 4Runner, and CR-V frequently appearing on reliability lists.

By Vehicle Type: 

• Most Reliable Hybrid SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
• Most Reliable Compact SUV: Honda CR-V
• Most Reliable Midsize SUV: Cadillac XT5
• Most Reliable 3-Row SUV: Infiniti QX80

Key Factors to Consider:

• Vehicle Size: Reliability ratings are often segmented by vehicle size, such as compact, midsize, and full-size. 
• Brand Reputation: Brands with strong long-term reliability records, like Toyota and Honda, are often good choices. 
• Hybrid vs. Gas: Hybrid models, such as the Highlander Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid, are frequently highlighted for their proven reliability. 

What brand SUV lasts the longest?

Toyota and Honda are known for producing some of the longest-lasting SUVs, with models like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Sequoia, and Toyota 4Runner frequently appearing on lists of durable vehicles likely to exceed 250,000 miles. These models benefit from proven powertrains and robust construction, with the Toyota Highlander Hybrid also highlighted for its reliability and potential to reach 500,000 miles or more. 
Top Brands & Models

• Toyota: Opens in new tabThe brand consistently ranks high for SUV longevity, with several models like the Land Cruiser, Sequoia, and 4Runner known for their durability and high mileage potential. 
• Honda: Opens in new tabThe Honda Pilot is another SUV that frequently appears on lists of long-lasting vehicles, demonstrating strong performance and reliability. 

Specific Models Known for Longevity

• Toyota Land Cruiser: Opens in new tabThis model is recognized as one of the most reliable SUVs, with a significant chance of reaching 250,000 miles or more, according to Business Insider. 
• Toyota Sequoia: Opens in new tabAnother Toyota SUV, the Sequoia is noted for its durability and ability to last for extensive periods. 
• Toyota 4Runner: Opens in new tabThis rugged SUV is built to last, maintaining its reputation for reliability and high mileage capabilities over many years. 
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Opens in new tabThe hybrid version of the Highlander is particularly praised for its reliable powertrain, which can significantly extend the vehicle’s lifespan. 
• Lexus LX: Opens in new tabSharing its foundation with the Land Cruiser, the Lexus LX combines luxury with exceptional durability, with some models reportedly reaching 400,000 to 500,000 miles or more. 

Factors Contributing to Longevity

• Proven Powertrains: Models with established and refined engines, like the hybrid systems in certain Toyota models, tend to be more reliable. 
• Robust Construction: SUVs built with strong frames and durable components, such as the Land Cruiser and 4Runner, are more likely to withstand the demands of long-term use. 
• Effective Maintenance: Following the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals, such as regular oil changes and check-ups, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of any vehicle. 

What is the best quality SUV on the market?

The “best quality” SUV depends on your specific needs, but leading choices for overall quality and user satisfaction include the Kia Telluride, praised for initial quality and its mid-size SUV capabilities, and the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, a top-rated choice for its fuel efficiency and three-row functionality. Other high-quality options include the luxurious Genesis GV80, the practical and efficient Honda CR-V Hybrid, and the well-rounded Hyundai Santa Fe. 
Top Choices by Category

• Mid-Size & 3-Row: The Kia Telluride is a top-rated option for its multi-talented features and quality in the mid-size segment. 
• Fuel Efficiency & Hybrid: The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid stands out for its exceptional fuel economy and practicality in a large SUV. 
• Compact SUVs: The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a consistent benchmark, offering efficiency, practicality, and strong resale value. 
• Luxury: The Genesis GV80 is a premium option, noted for its luxury and high quality. 
• Value & Innovation: The Hyundai Santa Fe is recognized for its bold design, family-friendly features, and overall value. 

Factors to Consider for Quality

• Initial Quality: J.D. Power studies, like the one for the 2025 Kia Telluride, measure the number of problems owners experience in the first 90 days of ownership, indicating build quality. 
• Reliability: Brands like Toyota and Honda have a long-standing reputation for reliability, which contributes to the long-term quality of their vehicles. 
• Expert Reviews: Sources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and U.S. News provide expert ratings and awards based on a comprehensive review of features, performance, and overall value. 
• Resale Value: A strong resale value, as seen with the Honda CR-V Hybrid, can be an indicator of long-term desirability and quality. 
• Brand Reputation: Established brands known for building durable and well-engineered vehicles often offer higher quality.