You plan to keep a car for 15 years or more, so choosing a model that stays reliable and affordable matters more than trendy features. This article shows which vehicles consistently hold up over time and why they make smart long-term choices.
They’ll cover what to expect from hybrids, sedans, crossovers, and trucks, and explain the maintenance and ownership benefits that help a vehicle last. You’ll get clear guidance to pick a car that fits long-term needs and budgets without hunting through scattered reviews.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Highlander Hybrid earns a spot for long-term ownership thanks to Toyota’s reputation for reliability and a proven hybrid powertrain.
It offers three-row seating that suits families, though the third row fits kids best.
Owners save on fuel with excellent mpg and typically lower running costs over many years.
For details on specs and reviews, see a full 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid review.
Honda Accord
The Accord earns a reputation for longevity when properly maintained, with many examples reaching well past 200,000 miles.
Drivers appreciate its balanced ride, fuel-efficient engines, and roomy interior that hold up over time.
Recent generations add modern safety tech and stronger reliability scores, which help owners keep cars longer.
Check maintenance history and watch for model-year specific issues before buying used, and prioritize regular service to maximize lifespan.
Subaru Outback
The Outback stands out for buyers who plan to keep a car long-term thanks to proven longevity and strong resale value. It pairs standard all‑wheel drive with a rugged chassis that handles varied weather and light off‑road use.
Owners praise its safety features and comfortable cabin for daily driving and long trips. For reliability trends and model-year guidance, consult reviews like the Outback’s longevity and mileage record.
Lexus RX
The Lexus RX blends comfort, quietness, and proven reliability, making it a strong pick for someone who wants a car to keep long-term. Recent generations, especially 2018–2021 models, tend to hold up well and offer modern safety tech.
They offer gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, so buyers can prioritize fuel economy or simplicity. Check maintenance history and avoid years with recurring electronic or suspension complaints before committing.
Toyota Camry
The Camry earns a reputation for durability and low long-term ownership costs. Owners often report high mileage with routine maintenance, which makes it a strong pick for 15+ year plans.
Later generations improved safety and tech without sacrificing reliability. Consider well-maintained models from the mid-2000s onward and check common trouble spots before buying.
Look for detailed service records and a clean title to maximize longevity. Explore reliability overviews like this Camry reliability guide.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V earns a reputation for long-term reliability and practical packaging that suits owners who keep cars a long time.
Well-maintained examples from strong years like 2005–2006 and 2015–2016 often reach high-mileage without major issues; check consumer reports and aggregated reviews for specific model-year notes.
Its simple, durable drivetrain and plentiful parts make repairs straightforward, and resale value tends to hold better than many rivals.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 balances driving enjoyment with practical longevity, making it a solid pick for long-term owners. Mazda refined comfort, safety, and tech across updates, which helps later model years age better.
Owners praise its engaging handling and durable build, and Mazda’s factory warranties add early-care protection. For more on best and worst years to consider, see this guide to Mazda CX-5 buying and reliability.
Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma has a strong reputation for long-term durability and simple mechanicals that owners can maintain for many years.
It holds value well, which helps offset replacement costs over a 15-plus‑year ownership period.
Some model years had specific problems, so buyers should check recall and owner‑report history before buying used.
For new buyers, choosing a well‑maintained trim with the optional rust protection and routine service records improves the odds of trouble‑free ownership.
Ford F-150
The F-150 earns a spot for long-term ownership thanks to its simple, truck-centric engineering and widespread parts availability.
Owners report strong longevity, especially with conservative maintenance and avoiding heavy aftermarket tuning.
Recent generations added aluminum body panels and new tech; buyers should check for common issues on specific years before committing.
Research year-by-year reliability and recall history, for example using reviews like the 2026 Ford F-150 review, to pick the best candidate.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Silverado appeals to drivers who want a tough, long-lived truck with straightforward mechanics. It holds up well with regular maintenance and heavy use.
Many owners report high-mileage longevity, especially on older V8s and well-kept diesel versions. Choose model years carefully and check common trouble spots before buying.
For model-year guidance and reliability notes, consult a roundup of the best and worst Chevrolet Silverado 1500 years.