13 Insanely Reliable Japanese Cars That Are Worth Every Penny

If you're looking for your next vehicle, there are many factors to consider. Along with price and safety, reliability is arguably even more important to account for in your next ride. After all, investing in a vehicle that'll keep you going for years is among the top smart money moves if you own a car.

When it comes to reliability, Japanese models have a well-established reputation for being dependable and often top the rankings and reviews. Here's a look at 13 options that combine reliability and affordability to be some of the most dependable cars on the road.

MSRP: $22,325

This popular Toyota vehicle often ranks among the best and most reliable rides in the industry. In addition, it's typically listed by reviewers as being among the most reliable among compact cars. 

With high marks for fuel efficiency, the Corolla gets up to an estimated 32 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. The affordable sticker price makes the vehicle attractive for buyers, too.

MSRP: $24,170

This sedan outshines many other compact cars, according to reviews. The Mazda 3 is known for great acceleration, smooth handling, and a gentle ride. 

Drivers will likely appreciate the combination of athletic handling and a comfortable suspension, too. The vehicle also comes standard with a 191-horsepower turbo engine.

MSRP: $24,250

It's probably not surprising to see the Civic on this list. After all, it's a popular vehicle known for being a solid and reliable ride that will last for years. The sedan has 14.8 cubic feet of storage space and responsive handling, and many drivers are fans of the HondaSensing suite of driver-assist features.

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MSRP: $25,195

Here's a subcompact crossover that's said to be a solid and smooth ride. Along with being reliable, the CX-30 comes with a suite of safety standards to make driving even more enjoyable. Many drivers also enjoy the premium interior of this crossover, although some reviews have noted a smaller cargo space and restricted rear legroom.

MSRP: $28,295

The Honda Accord continues to deliver a reliable ride that's popular with all kinds of drivers. It's often ranked among the top midsize sedans and comes out on top for the best midsize cars for the money. Drivers also praise the spaciousness of the Accord and its stellar fuel economy of up to 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

MSRP: $28,700

There's a reason the Camry is so popular. It's a vehicle that comes with great reviews and a reputation for being reliable. In fact, it's received top honors for quality and value, making it a solid car for both families and singles.

Reports praise its efficient hybrid powertrain and spacious interior. Additionally, the 2025 Camry gets up to an estimated 51 mpg combined.

MSRP: $28,770

This crossover has been called one of the top compact SUVs by reviewers. From comfort to style and fun driving dynamics, consumers praise its versatility and driving enjoyment. Additionally, the CX-5 is known for its excellent handling with precise steering, and the vehicle gets up to an estimated 28 mpg combined.

MSRP: $29,010

Here's another popular vehicle that has stellar ratings for reliability. This five-seater is a spacious vehicle and comes with a suite of safety features to give you peace of mind, including its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, emergency steering, and pre-collision braking. The Outback is also known for being a comfortable vehicle.

MSRP: $29,250

Toyota continuously produces reliable vehicles, including the RAV4. The vehicle is among the most dependable rides that offers the practicality of SUVs. From the spacious interior of up to 69.8 cubic feet to its fuel-efficient engine, drivers likely won't be disappointed when investing in one.

MSRP: $29,530

You may be surprised to see this vehicle on the list. After all, it's a stylish two-seater sports car. But it has a strong reputation for reliability and durability and has received high marks for being a fun and fuel-efficient ride. 

The MX-5 Miata has a 2-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and gets up to an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

MSRP: $33,000

Check out this compact luxury car if you're looking for a reliable ride. It's sporty and practical, along with being an upscale choice in compact vehicles. 

You can enjoy the comfortable interior and suite of tech features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You'll also find a slew of standard safety features, such as adaptive cruise control.

MSRP: $42,220

You may not find a lot of minivans making the list of the most reliable Japanese vehicles, but here's one to consider. This eight-seater has plenty of cargo space and is praised by reviewers for its comfortable interior. With its 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 280 horsepower, it has been ranked among the best minivans for the money.

MSRP: $49,945

Reviewers have said this hybrid offers overall excellent performance, and they've praised its excellent fuel economy. From the solid acceleration and composed ride, it's a powerful vehicle. In addition to being reliable, the CX-90 also comes with a luxurious cabin and a sleek design.

You might consider purchasing a Japanese car if you're in the market for a new vehicle and value reliability, and many models provide this peace of mind at an affordable price. In fact, many models from manufacturers on this list, such as Honda, Toyota, and Mazda, have topped iSeeCars' latest study on the most reliable new cars for the money.

And if you buy one that's ranked highly, you might be able to negotiate or find a cheaper auto insurance policy to secure an even better value for yourself.