It is not a secret that Japanese car industry has always been associated with uncompromising quality, reliability and longevity. Therefore, many cars from Land of the rising sun still use the title of “eternal”, overcoming on some hundred thousand km without failures and serious problems. In this rating, we will select 10 highest-quality Japanese cars, which can be called a model of reliability.
Honda Accord
At one time, the front-wheel drive sedan Honda Accord revolutionized the industry of family cars and changed the public’s view of the cars of this class. He managed to do it long before the mass distribution of crossovers and SUVs. Note that in America, the Accord has long been considered the most popular vehicle, starting in the 1980s.
All generations of the Honda Accord, with the exception of the sixth and partly the seventh, are the epitome of durability and quality. It is also one of the best-selling midsize models, in fact, only for the last five years, the car has received a high score of 82 points out of 100 from the J.D Powers think tank.
And although some units are recalled by the manufacturer due to problems with the exterior lighting and fuel pump, the experts from Consumer Reports give the brand the leading place among all automakers in terms of reliability.
Mazda 3 I (BK) restyling
Even 17 years after its introduction to the market, this car stands out from the crowd against other cars, including newer ones.
The distinctive quality of the lineup is the reliable engines. If you do not need special acceleration properties and dynamics, you can consider a copy with an automatic transmission and a two-liter unit.
According to owner reviews, this is the most successful tandem that needs no special introduction. If to observe basic requirements on maintenance, to change oil and a set of timing gear in time, the car will go long and without “vagaries”.
In terms of finishing there are no claims to the model, except for “musical” plastic, which makes creaks and sounds after 150-200 thousand km run. The body is prone to corrosion. But if the previous owner paid proper attention to care and treated the body in time, most likely serious troubles will not bother you.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback was a continuation of the legendary Legacy model, but soon became a distinctive project and even positively influenced the popularity of the elevated station wagon.
During its existence on the market, the car changed six generations and almost never caused any doubts among car owners about the reliability and quality of the used assemblies. Only in the period from 2011 to 2013 there were negative reviews regarding problematic piston rings, which often became the cause of the failure of the power unit.
The reliability of the model is confirmed by the high rating of the analytical center J.D. Power, where its rating is positioned as “above average”.
Toyota Corolla X (E140, E150)
Continues the rating of “eternal” Japanese cars is the iconic Toyota Corolla, which still enjoys great popularity.
In terms of cabin ergonomics and reliability of components (engine and suspension) there are no claims to the model. True, the robotized box does not arouse much confidence among motorists, and many recommend bypassing it.
The best option is a 1.6-liter Toyota Corolla X (E140, E150) with an automatic transmission or a time-proven manual gearbox.
The engine lineup is presented by reliable and fail-safe units. True, for their correct work over a long service life you need to change the timing in time – at least by 150 thousand km mileage. It is also necessary to consider such a problem, as increased oil consumption due to the specifics of the engine. According to other parameters Toyota Corolla X is a reliable Japanese car, which deserves only positive feedback.
Toyota Camry VI (XV40)
The legendary car enjoys enormous popularity. In particular, this is a credit to its reliability, quality components and rich on-board equipment.
If we forget about the huge tax on the 3.5-liter monster engine, as well as problems with the transmission, Toyota Camry VI (XV40) is the best buy.
Components to the Camry have always been famous for their durability and reliability, and the cost of consumables and spare parts is quite affordable for the average consumer. Basically, the car is chosen for a quiet and comfortable travel from point “A” to point “B”. And if you are looking for an inexpensive “sports car” and plan to conquer high-speed tracks, most likely, this option will not suit you.
Honda Jazz II
The miniature Honda Jazz II is not the cheapest representative of this rating and its class in general, but it can be called one of the “eternal” Japanese cars.
For this sum you can count on the comfortable car for city operation. Already in base the Jazz is completed with climate control, complete set of airbags, “cruise control”, electric heating of seats and mirrors, and other options of comfort and safety. By the way, in terms of safety, the model has collected 5 stars of 5 possible in the authoritative rating.
An important advantage of the line is the restrained fuel consumption, which is about 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers when using a smooth driving style.
As for the disadvantages, only the problematic variator is mentioned among them. CVT-box Honda Jazz II is a very fragile invention, requiring careful care and timely maintenance. It reacts negatively to frost and aggressive driving style. “Robot” is more reliable and durable, but it is not cheap to maintain.
Honda Civic VIII
The eighth generation Honda Civic VIII boasts a futuristic design and sporty character. One gets the impression that this car is timeless, as it still looks very fresh and good-looking.
Buyers have complaints about the visibility from the driver’s seat. Being behind the wheel, you can notice a significant slope of the windshield and the pillars with vents. But, most likely, it is a matter of habit. According to other parameters the interior looks stylish and unusual.
Lexus RX 350 II
If you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive crossover with a price tag up to 1 million rubles, it hardly makes sense to consider something else but the Lexus RX 350 II. But don’t look at it as an SUV. It is an urban SUV, which feels itself comfortably both on even asphalt, and on minimum off-road.
The combination of the 3,5-liter motor with automatic gearbox Aisin is considered a legendary tandem of simplicity and reliability. True, it is necessary to be ready for consumption of 20 liters at dynamic style of driving.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 120
Off-road Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 120 does not need a long introduction. This is the embodiment of Japanese quality and reliability, tested by harsh Russian winters in the Far North, extreme off-roading and other incredibly difficult operating conditions.
There are facts, when people have driven it over 900 thousand km, and, except for basic maintenance, have not done anything. Thus it is not necessary to expect from “Japanese” special dynamics, steering and especially economical fuel consumption. It is a frame SUV, designed for absolutely other problems.
Lexus ES
The Lexus ES, which belongs to the premium segment, but now costs much cheaper than its starting price at the secondary market, closes the ten “eternal” Japanese cars. The car managed to get the highest reliability score (96 out of 100) according to J.D. Power. This allows you to classify it as one of the most high-quality and durable models of the Japanese car industry.