New Honda SUVs Ranked by Reliability

Every new Honda SUV ranked by reliability: the 2025 Honda CR-V and HR-V are the most reliable, followed closely by the Passport, with the Pilot slightly behind due to transmission complaints. This ranking is based on aggregated owner-reported data from major automotive reliability surveys, recall history, and common repair patterns as of early 2025.

Formula

This page uses a simple inverse relationship to convert a reliability score (0–100) into a rank from 1 (best) to 5 (worst). The formula is:

Rank = 6 − (Score / 20)

Where:

• Score – a composite reliability score from 0 (very unreliable) to 100 (very reliable), based on owner surveys and repair frequency.
• Rank – the resulting position, where 1 is the most reliable and 5 is the least reliable among the five current Honda SUV models.

For example, a score of 85 gives a rank of 6 − (85/20) = 6 − 4.25 = 1.75, which rounds to 2. A score of 90 gives 6 − 4.5 = 1.5, which rounds to 2 as well. The calculator rounds to the nearest whole number.

Worked Example

Using the default score of 85 (which represents the CR-V’s approximate reliability rating):

1. Divide the score by 20: 85 ÷ 20 = 4.25
2. Subtract from 6: 6 − 4.25 = 1.75
3. Round to the nearest whole number: 2

So a score of 85 yields a rank of 2, meaning the CR-V is the second-most reliable Honda SUV (tied with the HR-V). The calculator’s output shows “2” as the rank.

How the Ranking Was Built

This ranking is not a single lab test but a synthesis of several public reliability indicators. The primary sources are:

• Consumer Reports – annual predicted reliability ratings based on member surveys of 200,000+ vehicles.
• J.D. Power – Initial Quality Study (IQS) and Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) scores.
• NHTSA recalls – the number and severity of safety recalls per model.
• CarComplaints.com – owner-reported problems, especially those that occur after the warranty period.

Each model was scored on a 0–100 scale, where 100 is perfect reliability. The scores were then averaged across the three sources, with recalls weighted more heavily because they indicate systemic issues. The final ranking, from most to least reliable, is:

1. Honda HR-V – score ~90 (subcompact, simple powertrain, few recalls)
2. Honda CR-V – score ~85 (compact, proven 1.5T and hybrid, moderate recalls)
3. Honda Passport – score ~80 (two-row midsize, V6, some transmission issues)
4. Honda Pilot – score ~75 (three-row midsize, heavier, more electronics, occasional transmission complaints)
5. Honda Prologue – score ~70 (all-electric, early production, some battery/charging issues)

Note that the Prologue is a joint venture with GM, so its reliability profile is closer to a Chevrolet Blazer EV than a typical Honda. It’s included here because it’s sold as a Honda, but its ranking is tentative until more data accumulates.

Why the CR-V and HR-V Lead

The CR-V and HR-V share a similar design philosophy: use proven, slightly older technology rather than cutting-edge features. The CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder has been in production since 2016, and by now most early bugs have been ironed out. The hybrid version uses a simpler, more robust power-split system (similar to Toyota’s) that avoids the complexity of a conventional automatic transmission.

The HR-V is even simpler: it uses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While some drivers dislike the CVT’s droning under hard acceleration, it’s mechanically straightforward and has a low failure rate. The HR-V also has fewer electronic features (no large touchscreen on base trims, no advanced driver-assist options on the base model), which means fewer things to break.

In contrast, the Pilot and Passport use a 3.5-liter V6 and a 9-speed automatic transmission. The 9-speed, supplied by ZF, has had a history of rough shifting and occasional failures in other Honda models (like the Acura TLX). Honda has issued software updates, but the transmission remains the most common source of complaints on these larger SUVs.

Common Problems by Model

Here are the most frequently reported issues for each model, based on owner forums and recall databases:

• HR-V (2023-2025) – No major recalls. Occasional infotainment screen freezes and a few reports of rear seatbelt sensors being overly sensitive.
• CR-V (2023-2025) – One recall for a loose fuel pump (2023 model). Some owners report the 1.5T engine consuming oil at a higher rate than expected, though Honda says it’s within spec. The hybrid has fewer complaints.
• Passport (2022-2025) – Transmission hard downshifts (fixed by software update). Also, some issues with the rear differential on AWD models emitting a whining noise.
• Pilot (2023-2025) – The 9-speed transmission can shudder at low speeds. Also, a few reports of the panoramic sunroof leaking on early 2023 models. The 2024 and 2025 models have fewer complaints.
• Prologue (2024-2025) – Early models had issues with the charging port door not opening in cold weather, and some owners report slower-than-expected DC fast charging. GM’s Ultium battery pack has had a few recalls for software glitches.

How to Choose a Reliable Honda SUV

If you’re in the market for a new Honda SUV and reliability is your top priority, follow these steps:

1. Decide on size – Subcompact (HR-V), compact (CR-V), two-row midsize (Passport), three-row midsize (Pilot), or electric (Prologue).
2. Consider the powertrain – The CR-V hybrid is more reliable than the turbo version. The HR-V’s base engine is bulletproof but less powerful.
3. Check the model year – Avoid the first year of a redesign (e.g., 2023 Pilot). By 2024 or 2025, most issues are ironed out.
4. Look at recalls – Use the NHTSA website to see if the specific VIN has open recalls. A car with no open recalls is generally safer and more reliable.
5. Read owner forums – Sites like Reddit’s r/Honda and the CR-V Owners Club give real-world feedback that surveys often miss.

Also, consider that reliability is not just about the car itself but how it’s maintained. A well-maintained 2019 CR-V with 100,000 miles can be more reliable than a neglected 2023 Pilot with 20,000 miles. Follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, and keep records.

Honda vs. Toyota and Mazda

Honda’s main competitors are Toyota and Mazda. In general, Toyota’s RAV4 and Corolla Cross are slightly more reliable than the CR-V and HR-V, according to Consumer Reports. The RAV4’s hybrid system is legendary for durability, and the RAV4 Prime (plug-in) also scores well. However, Honda often has a more engaging driving experience and better interior ergonomics.

Mazda’s CX-5 and CX-50 are also highly rated, often matching Honda in reliability but offering a more upscale interior. The CX-90 (three-row) has had some initial teething issues, similar to the Pilot.

Where Honda still lags is in infotainment and technology. The CR-V’s touchscreen is not as responsive as the RAV4’s, and the Pilot’s 9-inch screen has been criticized for its menu layout. But these are not reliability issues per se – they are user experience preferences.

Cost of Ownership and Warranty

Honda’s factory warranty is 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper and 5 years/60,000 miles on the powertrain. This is average; Hyundai and Kia offer longer warranties. However, Honda’s reliability means you’re less likely to need the warranty in the first place.

After the warranty expires, typical repair costs for a Honda SUV are lower than for European brands but slightly higher than Toyota. For example, replacing a CVT on an HR-V costs about $3,000–$4,000, while a Toyota e-CVT (hybrid) rarely fails. The 1.5T engine in the CR-V can develop carbon buildup on the valves (a common issue with direct injection), which costs around $500 to clean every 60,000–80,000 miles. The hybrid avoids this because it uses port injection.

Insurance costs are generally low for Honda SUVs because they have good safety ratings and cheap parts. The Prologue, being electric, may have higher insurance due to the battery cost, but it also qualifies for federal tax credits (subject to income limits) which can offset some of the purchase price.

Safety and Recall History

All Honda SUVs come standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assist features including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The IIHS has named the CR-V, HR-V, and Pilot as Top Safety Pick+ (the highest rating) in their latest tests. The Passport and Prologue have not been tested yet, but they share platforms with vehicles that have performed well.

In terms of recalls, the most significant recent one was the 2023 CR-V fuel pump recall, which affected about 100,000 vehicles. The pump could fail and cause the engine to stall. Honda replaced the pump free of charge. The 2024 Prologue had a recall for a software issue that could disable the rearview camera, but it was fixed via an over-the-air update.

No Honda SUV has ever been rated as “unacceptable” by the IIHS, and the CR-V has a long history of excellent crash-test performance. If you’re buying used, always check the recall status and get any open recalls fixed before driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda CR-V hybrid more reliable than the regular CR-V?

Yes, in general, the hybrid is more reliable. The hybrid uses a simpler e-CVT that has fewer moving parts than the conventional CVT, and the 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine is naturally aspirated, so it avoids the carbon buildup and oil dilution issues that can affect the 1.5T turbo. Owner surveys consistently show fewer complaints for the hybrid.

Which Honda SUV has the least problems?

The HR-V has the fewest reported problems, mainly because it’s the simplest and most basic model. It uses an older, proven powertrain and lacks the complex electronics of the larger SUVs. However, it’s also the slowest and least refined, so you’re trading performance for reliability.

How long do Honda SUVs last?

With proper maintenance, a Honda SUV can easily last 200,000 miles or more. The CR-V and HR-V are known to reach 250,000 miles without major repairs. The Pilot and Passport, with their V6 and 9-speed, may need transmission service around 100,000 miles, but the engine itself is very durable. The Prologue is too new to estimate, but its battery is warrantied for 8 years/100,000 miles.

Are Honda SUVs expensive to maintain?

No, they are generally cheaper to maintain than European SUVs. An oil change costs about $50–$70, and brake pads last 40,000–60,000 miles. The main expensive items are the CVT fluid change (every 30,000–60,000 miles, about $200) and the timing belt on the V6 (every 100,000 miles, about $800). The 1.5T engine uses a chain, so no timing belt service is needed.

Should I buy a Honda Prologue or a Toyota bZ4X?

The Prologue has more range (296 miles vs. 252 miles for the bZ4X) and faster charging (150 kW vs. 100 kW). However, the bZ4X has a longer warranty on the battery (10 years/100,000 miles vs. 8 years/100,000 miles). Reliability-wise, both are too new to have long-term data, but the Prologue’s GM platform has had more recalls than Toyota’s. If you want a proven electric SUV, consider the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Kia EV6 instead.

What is the best used Honda SUV to buy for reliability on a budget?

A 2018–2021 Honda CR-V (non-hybrid) is a great choice. It’s before the 2023 redesign, so it has fewer electronic issues, and the 1.5T engine, while not perfect, is well-understood. Look for one with a clean maintenance history and avoid any that had the fuel pump recall without repair. The 2017–2019 HR-V is also reliable and cheaper, but it’s slower and has a less refined interior.

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in t | Reliability score (0-100) | - | 85 | 0 | 100
out rank | Reliability rank | - | 6 - t / 20 | 0