I’m on the fence. I spent the last 10+ fixing 2 money pit cars. Used 2009 Chrysler Sebring I had for 11 years & used 2011 Jeep compass I had for almost 4 years. I’m currently on the market for a brand new vehicle. What should I go for Toyota RAV4, Honda crv or Mazda cx5? I really leaning towards the Mazda bc of the look & cost but with my experience I usually pick the wrong car. What is the most reliable and will last me 10 plus years with minimum problems just the normally maintenance. I’m really great about oil changes and routine maintenance. I made a mistake I think on with Chrysler & Jeep.
If the goal is projected reliability and low cost maintenance, the RAV4 would be the first choice. The powertrain is basically a Camry, and Camry’s are known for their reliability.
The CX-5 and CR-V are decent choices as well. With relative projected reliability. And better interiors if you ask me.
My personal choice (not a recommendation) would be the CR-V or CX-5 because I like the interiors so much more than the RAV4. The simplicity, aesthetics, and ergonomics of the CR-V impress me so much.
RAV4
I hate the 8-speed transmission (they STILL feel fishy and I can get better MPG on the 6-speed 2018 and 2015 Rav4s). But Toyota reliability and repairs will always be victorious.
I dismissed Honda after 2016 on the CR-V. They went with poorer transmissions.
Mazda transmissions are still 6-speed and appear to be pretty darn OK. They're switching to Mexican made, so CX-5 ONLY. Smaller interior.
Mazda lots are all very full. Honda are too. Toyotas are still the hot ticket.
When you buy the RAV4, contact Jerry Johnson from Midwest Toyota for the 10-year transferable Platinum Vehicle Service Agreement from Toyota Financial Services. A single radio repair after 3 years/36k miles will pay for the service agreement. Optical/radar calibrations cost nearly as much as the warranty. It's a great deal from him compared to dealerships. The computers and tech are the motivating factor for the warranty, but mechanicals are covered as well.
