Consumer Reports (CR) is a well-known American non-profit magazine that evaluates the properties and worth of consumer goods in the United States. In its latest assessment, CR highlighted nine crossover models as leaders in reliability and economy, signaling which small to midsize sport utilities stand out for everyday use and long-term value.
The rating process involved rigorous testing of a broad set of vehicles. Experts evaluated 129 different cars on a variety of criteria, from real‑world performance to maintenance costs. The final crossovers singled out by CR analysts span hybrid and traditional gasoline configurations, demonstrating that both powertrains can deliver solid efficiency and dependability when paired with modern safety features and durable components. Among the models named were widely recognized names like Hyundai Tucson, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 Prime, Subaru Crosstrek, Lexus NX, Honda CR-V, Lexus UX, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Toyota RAV4. These choices reflect a balance of everyday practicality, passenger space, and proven reliability across different driving conditions and regions, including Canada and the United States.
CR emphasized that the top picks not only performed well in road tests but also earned high reliability ratings and kept fuel consumption at or below 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers. This threshold helps prospective buyers compare ongoing ownership costs, including fuel and maintenance, in a clear, apples-to-apples way. In addition, every model on the list came with essential active safety features as standard, notably forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, reinforcing the value proposition of these crossovers for families and commuters alike.
Beyond the standout crossovers, former CR analysts also discussed reliable five-year-old sedans that offer cost efficiency and ongoing reliability, underscoring how a smaller, well‑maintained sedan can be an economical alternative for budget-conscious buyers in North America. The overall message from CR is simple: a strong combination of real-world efficiency, long-term dependability, and robust safety technology tends to produce the best overall ownership experience for a wide range of drivers.