How do we know when we buy a new car that it won't have similar problems that have been recalled or anticipated?

We're still driving a used Ford CMax with 115,000 miles on it - and no problems, but we know it can't last much longer. (Our previous Prius' wiring was chewed up by a rat, and after the dealer took the car apart to find the rat, the insurance company decided to total it. We live in the country). The C-Max was a 'make-do' choice, until we could afford something better. Surprisingly, it has been a 'nice car' for us. But, the soy-based coating on wiring, plus minimal road clearance, are two things we don't want in our next car.

Now we're car shopping:

We wanted to buy a Toyota Corolla Cross in lieu of the more expensive Rav 4, til we learned about all the major recalls of Toyota products in the last year - particularly the Rav 4. We then thought about getting a Honda CRV & learned that they're having similar problems. Mazda seems to be having similar difficulties.

Reviewers recently said they found the Hyundai SUV was an excellent ride, very quiet and comfortable. But, has Hyundai improved it's quality enough to consider another possible choice?

We're in our 80's - but more like we're in our 60's - and will be able to afford some of the 'luxurious' features that we understand are more likely to be found in the Hondas (& Mazdas?) like comfy heated seats , and a quiet cabin. A small turn radius would be a bonus.

In addition, for the near future, we're also considering a small hybrid pickup like the new Corolla Pickup, for my husband's hobbies & tools.

But it seems all our picks have really bad manufacturing problems recently.

How do we know when we buy a new car that it won't have similar problems that have been recalled or anticipated?

Thanks for your help!