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When a trusted source like Consumer Reports releases a new set of reliability scores, the automotive world takes notice. The latest list focuses on sedans that have proven themselves in real‑world use, with some models earning near‑perfect ratings. Below is a look at the top performers, why they stand out, and what buyers can expect from each.
The Underrated Champion: Mazda 3
At the top of the list sits the 2025 Mazda 3, a car that many consider a hidden gem. Priced under $20,000, it feels far more upscale than its price tag suggests. Owners praise the interior for its near‑luxury feel, and the vehicle has earned a 74‑point score from Consumer Reports. Safety is another strong point: the Mazda 3 received an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus, the highest safety rating available. The car offers two engine options—a 2.5‑liter naturally aspirated unit that delivers 191 horsepower and 186 lb‑ft of torque, and a turbocharged version that provides more power but may introduce more complexity. Mazda’s decision to forgo a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in favor of a traditional automatic has paid off, as CVTs are often cited as a source of long‑term headaches. Fuel economy is solid, with a combined rating of 30 miles per gallon, and the overall reliability score reflects the car’s durability over time.
Hybrid Leaders: Camry, ES Hybrid, Accord, Crown
Hybrid technology is a major factor in modern sedan reliability, and several models shine in this category. The 2026 Toyota Camry, now a full hybrid across all trims, earned a 74‑point score. Its new fifth‑generation hybrid system delivers 48 miles per gallon combined, thanks to lighter motors and improved battery heat management. The system feels noticeably smoother than the older gasoline versions, and the Camry’s long‑standing reputation for reliability remains intact.
The 2025 Lexus ES Hybrid, while still using the 2019‑2025 platform, achieved a 77‑point score. It offers 42 miles per gallon combined and a cabin that owners describe as a quiet, leather‑lined haven. The new 2026 redesign introduces an all‑electric hybrid system, but it remains unproven, as no owners have yet accumulated enough mileage to confirm long‑term durability. Nevertheless, the outgoing model’s high reliability rating and strong fuel economy make it a compelling choice.
Honda’s 2025 Accord stands out with a 96‑point score, a rare achievement for a mainstream sedan. The hybrid powertrain places electric motors side by side with the gasoline engine, improving cooling and long‑term durability. The Accord delivers 32 miles per gallon combined and offers generous legroom, making it feel more like a near‑luxury car than a family sedan. Owners note the smoothness of the brakes—a feature that often disappoints in hybrids—making the Accord a standout in its class.
Finally, the 2025 Toyota Crown tops the list with a 99‑point score. The Crown is positioned between a practical family sedan and a near‑luxury cruiser, priced around $35,000. Its hybrid system, based on Toyota’s proven planetary‑gear setup, delivers 42 miles per gallon combined. The Crown also benefits from Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes advanced driver‑assist features. The high reliability rating signals that buyers can trust the Crown to perform consistently over many years.
Luxury and Sport: Lexus IS and Mercedes‑Benz C‑Class
The 2026 Lexus IS, trimmed down to a sport‑only lineup, earned an 84‑point score. The model retains a naturally aspirated 3.5‑liter V6 and a traditional automatic transmission, avoiding the complexity of turbocharging or hybrid systems. While fuel economy is modest at 22 miles per gallon combined, the IS offers a smooth, drama‑free driving experience. Build quality is praised for tight panel gaps and intentional paintwork, reflecting Lexus’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Mercedes‑Benz’s 2025 C‑Class received an 88‑point score, a significant improvement over the 2022‑2023 models that suffered from software glitches. The new generation runs a more stable 48‑volt mild‑hybrid system, and the IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick. Fuel economy is solid for a rear‑wheel‑drive sport sedan, with 29 miles per gallon combined. Owners appreciate the steering feel, interior materials, and the improved performance of the MBUX voice assistant. The price, however, climbs quickly as options are added, so buyers should stay in lower trims to keep costs manageable.
Practical and Reliable: Ultima, Corolla, Impreza
Nissan’s 2025 Ultima, the last year of this midsize sedan, earned an 89‑point score. The model features a chain‑driven CVT with improved cooling and upgraded pumps, eliminating the early‑generation shutter issue that plagued the brand. Owners report 31 miles per gallon combined and near‑40 miles per gallon on the highway, a remarkable figure for a non‑hybrid. The zero‑gravity seats, inspired by NASA research, provide exceptional comfort on long drives.
The Toyota Corolla, a perennial favorite, also received an 89‑point score. Priced around $22,500, it offers 36 miles per gallon combined and a unique dual‑injection system that eliminates the carbon buildup common in direct‑injection engines. The Corolla’s reliability allows it to reach 200,000 miles with minimal maintenance, making it a dependable daily driver.
Subaru’s 2025 Impreza, now a hatchback, earned a 92‑point score. The model comes standard with all‑wheel drive on every trim and offers 29 miles per gallon combined. Subaru increased the use of structural adhesive by 300%, tightening the body and reducing rattles. The EyeSight 4.0 safety system has been refined to eliminate phantom braking issues, and the Impreza’s overall reliability makes it a standout in its segment.
Across the board, Consumer Reports’ 2025 sedan reliability list highlights vehicles that combine strong safety ratings, efficient powertrains, and durable construction. Whether you’re looking for an affordable, well‑built sedan like the Mazda 3, a hybrid powerhouse such as the Toyota Crown, or a practical everyday car like the Corolla, the list offers clear guidance on which models are most likely to keep you on the road for years to come.