The Most Reliable Performance SUVs, Ranked

Choose the performance SUVs you think is the most reliable!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 26, 2024 06:16
In the search for a performance SUV that won't let you down, reliability becomes a key factor. With multiple brands offering myriad options, each claiming superiority, it can be overwhelming to sift through the noise and find the truth. This is why a collective evaluation of reliability can guide prospective buyers towards a decision that balances both performance and peace of mind. Here, users can vote on which SUVs they believe are the most reliable based on their personal experiences or extensive research. These rankings evolve through community involvement, reflecting real-time shifts in public opinion and market performance. This dynamic voter-driven approach provides an insight into what actual users think, helping others make informed choices.

What Are the Most Reliable Performance SUVs?

  1. 1
    69
    votes
    Porsche Cayenne
    OSX · Public domain

    Porsche Cayenne

    Porsche
    The Porsche Cayenne is known for its impressive handling, powerful engine options, and luxurious interior. It consistently ranks high in reliability ratings and has a strong resale value.
    The Porsche Cayenne is a luxury mid-size performance SUV known for its exceptional performance, premium features, and elegant design. It combines the practicality of an SUV with the sportiness and luxury expected from a Porsche.
    • Engine: 3.0L Turbocharged V6 or 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
    • Power Output: 335 to 550 horsepower
    • Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic S Automatic
    • Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.7 to 3.6 seconds
    • Top Speed: 156 to 183 mph
    Porsche Cayenne in other rankings
  2. 2
    40
    votes

    Lexus RX

    Lexus
    The Lexus RX is a luxury SUV with a reputation for reliability and durability. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety features.
    The Lexus RX is a luxury performance SUV that combines sleek design, advanced technology, and exceptional comfort. It offers a stylish exterior, a spacious and refined interior, and a smooth driving experience.
    • Engine: 3.5L V6
    • Power: 295 horsepower
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Seating capacity: 5 passengers
    • Cargo space: 18.4 cubic feet
    Lexus RX in other rankings
  3. 3
    23
    votes
    Audi SQ5
    Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Audi SQ5

    Audi
    The Audi SQ5 is a performance-oriented SUV with a powerful engine, sporty handling, and advanced technology features. It has received high marks for reliability and safety.
    The Audi SQ5 is a high-performance SUV that offers a combination of luxury, comfort, and sportiness. With its stylish design and powerful engine, it provides an exhilarating driving experience.
    • Engine: 3.0-liter V6
    • Power: 349 horsepower
    • Torque: 369 lb-ft
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Drive Type: Quattro all-wheel drive
    Audi SQ5 in other rankings
  4. 4
    12
    votes
    BMW X5
    Vauxford · CC BY-SA 4.0

    BMW X5

    BMW
    The BMW X5 is a premium SUV with strong engine options, agile handling, and a refined interior. It has a reputation for reliability and is a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers.
    The BMW X5 is a luxury midsize SUV introduced in 1999 as the automaker's first SUV. It is now in its fourth generation. Considering its luxurious features, performance capabilities, and upscale interior, the BMW X5 is often regarded as one of the best midsize SUVs on the market.
    • Engine options: 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine or 4.4-liter V8 engine
    • Horsepower: 300 hp to 600 hp
    • Torque: 300 lb-ft to 553 lb-ft
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
    • Fuel economy: 22 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
    BMW X5 in other rankings
  5. 5
    11
    votes
    Mercedes-Benz GLC
    Vauxford · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Mercedes-Benz GLC

    Mercedes-Benz
    The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a luxury SUV with a comfortable ride, high-tech features, and impressive fuel economy. It has received high marks for reliability and safety.
    The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a luxury compact SUV that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. It boasts a sleek and elegant design, along with a well-crafted interior that provides a plush and refined driving experience. With its reliability and versatility, the GLC is highly regarded as one of the most reliable performance SUVs on the market.
    • Engine: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4
    • Power: 241 horsepower
    • Transmission: 9-speed automatic
    • Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds
    • Fuel Efficiency: City: 22 mpg, Highway: 29 mpg
    Mercedes-Benz GLC in other rankings
  6. 6
    12
    votes
    Volvo XC60
    IFCAR · Public domain

    Volvo XC60

    Volvo Cars
    The Volvo XC60 is a compact SUV with a reputation for safety and reliability. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology features.
    The Volvo XC60 is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a combination of style, comfort, and safety. It is known for its robust build quality and reliable performance.
    • Engine Options: Multiple engine options available, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid.
    • Power Output: Ranges from 187 horsepower to 400 horsepower.
    • Seating Capacity: Can accommodate up to five passengers.
    • Cargo Space: Generous cargo capacity of up to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
    • All-Wheel Drive: Available with all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and control.
    Volvo XC60 in other rankings
  7. 7
    15
    votes
    Land Rover Range Rover Sport
    Vauxford · CC BY-SA 4.0
    The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a luxury SUV with impressive off-road capabilities, powerful engine options, and a refined interior. It has received high marks for reliability and safety.
    The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a luxury performance SUV that combines the iconic styling of the Range Rover with enhanced sportiness and high-end features. It offers a perfect balance between rugged off-road capability and dynamic on-road performance.
    • Engine Options: 2.0L P400e Plug-in Hybrid, 3.0L i6 MHEV, 3.0L V6 Diesel, 5.0L V8 Supercharged
    • Power Output Range: 398 - 575 horsepower
    • Seating Capacity: 5 or 7 seats
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Terrain Response System: Multiple selectable driving modes for various terrains
  8. 8
    7
    votes
    The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is a high-performance SUV with a powerful engine, sporty handling, and advanced technology features. It has received high marks for reliability and safety.
    The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is a high-performance SUV that combines power, luxury, and off-road capability. It is the top-tier trim level of the Jeep Grand Cherokee model and is designed for drivers seeking both speed and versatility.
    • Engine: 6.4L V8
    • Horsepower: 475 hp
    • Torque: 470 lb-ft
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Drive Type: Four-wheel drive
    Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT in other rankings
  9. 9
    -1
    votes
    Acura MDX
    IFCAR · Public domain

    Acura MDX

    Acura
    The Acura MDX is a luxury SUV with a reputation for reliability and durability. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety features.
    The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV known for its reliable performance and comfortable interior. It offers a combination of practicality, style, and advanced technology. With its strong engine and smooth handling, the MDX delivers a balanced driving experience.
    • Engine: 3.5L V6
    • Horsepower: 290 hp
    • Transmission: 9-speed automatic
    • Seating Capacity: 7
    • Cargo Space: 15.0 cu ft behind 3rd row
    Acura MDX in other rankings
  10. 10
    8
    votes
    Infiniti QX50
    Kevauto · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Infiniti QX50

    Infiniti
    The Infiniti QX50 is a compact luxury SUV with a powerful engine, sporty handling, and advanced technology features. It has received high marks for reliability and safety.
    The Infiniti QX50 is a luxury performance SUV designed for exceptional reliability and performance. It is crafted by Infiniti, a Japanese luxury automobile manufacturer known for its attention to detail and innovation. The QX50 combines luxurious features with advanced technology to deliver a comfortable and thrilling driving experience.
    • Engine Type: 2.0L VC-Turbo inline-4
    • Horsepower: 268 HP
    • Torque: 280 lb-ft
    • Fuel Efficiency: Up to 23 MPG city / 29 MPG highway
    • Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
    Infiniti QX50 in other rankings

Missing your favorite performance SUVs?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for reliable performance SUVs

  1. Engine performance and power
    The engine should be able to deliver significant power and torque to provide a thrilling driving experience yet remain fuel efficient.
  2. Handling and ride comfort
    A good balance between handling capabilities and ride comfort should be achieved for both on-road and off-road conditions.
  3. Towing capacity and payload
    The SUV should have substantial towing capacity and payload for various cargo and towing needs.
  4. Safety features and ratings
    Advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, collision warning systems, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance should be included in the vehicle's design, and the vehicle should have a good safety rating from internationally recognized agencies.
  5. Reliability and build quality
    The SUV should be built with high-quality materials and components, with minimal chances of mechanical or electrical failures, reducing the frequency of repairs and ensuring a longer lifespan.
  6. Interior space and comfort
    The vehicle should offer an adequate amount of cargo space and passenger room, with comfortable seating and upscale amenities, like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced infotainment features.
  7. Off-road capabilities
    The SUV should be able to handle various off-road terrains and weather conditions, including mud, snow, and steep inclines.
  8. Resale value
    A high resale value indicates that the performance SUV retains its value and remains an excellent investment for the owner.
  9. Maintenance and ownership costs
    The vehicle should have reasonable long-term maintenance and repair costs, as well as good warranty coverage to protect owners from unexpected expenses.
  10. Customer and expert reviews
    Consider feedback from current owners and automotive experts to gauge the real-world performance, reliability, and satisfaction of the SUV.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable performance SUVs. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or performance SUV is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2495 views
  • 197 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each performance SUV once every 24 hours. The rank of each performance SUV is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most reliable performance suvs

Performance SUVs have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a combination of practicality and speed. These vehicles are designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience, while also providing ample space for passengers and cargo. When it comes to reliability, however, not all performance SUVs are created equal. To determine the most reliable performance SUVs on the market, it's important to consider a range of factors. This includes the vehicle's overall build quality, the reliability of its components and systems, and the manufacturer's track record for producing dependable vehicles. By taking these factors into account, it's possible to identify the SUVs that are most likely to provide a trouble-free ownership experience. Whether you're looking for a high-performance SUV for daily driving or adventure trips, choosing a reliable model is crucial. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Fortunately, by doing your research and taking the time to compare different models, you can find the perfect performance SUV to meet your needs.

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