10 Cars That Outlast the Average Vehicle

Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Buying a car is a big deal. Whether you opt for a brand-new model or one that’s simply new to you, it’s important to invest in a vehicle you can count on.
Check Out: 3 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000
Some people trade cars in every few years, but this typically isn’t the most economical choice. Instead, it’s best to conduct research to find car brands known to last.
The average age of light vehicles — cars and light trucks — in the U.S. is 12.5 years, according to S&P Global Mobility. Of course, you can’t only measure a vehicle’s average life span in terms of years, as mileage is likely the biggest indicator.
From a mileage perspective, cars should be able to last 200,000 miles or more, according to Consumer Reports. However, much of this depends on the make and model of the vehicle.
For example, some used vehicles with a minimum of 160,000 miles or more, such as the Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner and Lexus GX, still sell at competitive prices due to their reputation of being reliable and having longevity, according to Consumer Reports.
Clearly, it’s important to do your homework if you’re looking for a car that can get you around for years to come. Doing so can help you save a lot of time, money and headaches.
10 Cars That Outlast the Average Vehicle
Some vehicles are built to last, while others aren’t quite as durable. If you’re shopping for a new car or planning to do so in the near future, now is the time to learn which brands are the best investment.
The average vehicle has an 11.8% chance of lasting more than 250,000 miles, according to an iSeeCars.com study. Overall, this isn’t great, but plenty of top performers typically drive well past this time frame.
New cars certainly aren’t cheap. As of January 2024, the U.S. new-vehicle average transaction price was $47,401, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Conducting research in advance to learn which vehicles tend to stay on the road longest can help you make an investment that has a positive impact on your budget for years to come.
Here’s a look at the 10 cars most likely to last more than 250,000 miles, according to iSeeCars.com. Also listed is the manufacturer’s suggested retail price for a brand-new 2024 model.
10. Toyota 4Runner
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 41%
- Compared to average: 3.5 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $40,705
9. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 41.2%
- Compared to average: 3.5 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $36,800
8. GMC Sierra 2500HD
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 41.3%
- Compared to average: 3.5 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $45,400
7. Toyota Tacoma
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 41.7%
- Compared to average: 3.5 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $31,500
6. Honda Pilot
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 42.7%
- Compared to average: 3.6 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $37,090
5. Ford F-250 Super Duty
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 43.6%
- Compared to average: 3.7 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $44,970
4. Toyota Sequoia
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 47.1%
- Compared to average: Four times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $61,275
3. Toyota Tundra
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 47.9%
- Compared to average: 4.1 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $39,965
2. Toyota Land Cruiser
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 47.9%
- Compared to average: 4.1 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $55,950
1. Ford F-350 Super Duty
- Percent chance of lasting past 250,000 miles: 49.1%
- Compared to average: 4.2 times longer
- 2024 starting MSRP: $44,970
As you can see, Toyota vehicles are built to last. Dominating five out of 10 spots, both the company’s SUVs and trucks made this list. Also worth noting, two Ford models made the list, taking both the first and fifth spots.
Another interesting takeaway — eight of 10 vehicles on this list are priced at less than $47,401. Only the Toyota Sequoia and Toyota Land Cruiser are more expensive, meaning a higher price tag doesn’t necessarily buy a higher-quality vehicle.
Ultimately, when it comes to buying a car, nothing is more important than safety and reliability. Opting to purchase one of the 10 cars above will likely be a decision you won’t regret.
Our in-house research team and on-site financial experts work together to create content that’s accurate, impartial, and up to date. We fact-check every single statistic, quote and fact using trusted primary resources to make sure the information we provide is correct. You can learn more about GOBankingRates’ processes and standards in our editorial policy.
- S&P Global Mobility. 2023. "Average Age of Light Vehicles in the US Hits Record High 12.5 years, according to S&P Global Mobility."
- Consumer Reports. 2024. "What Is a Reasonable Life Span for a Modern Car?"
- Cox Automotive. 2024. "Kelley Blue Book Reports New-Vehicle Transaction Prices Continue to Tumble, Down 3.5% Year Over Year in January."
- iSeeCars.com. "The Longest-Lasting Cars, Trucks and SUVs To Reach 250,000 Miles and Beyond."