10 Longest-lasting SUV Models Available Today

By: Miles Norellin  | 
Your mileage may vary. corlaffra / Shutterstock

If you are researching the longest-lasting SUV, you are really asking which models keep running well past what an average SUV can handle.

Longevity in SUVs comes from conservative engineering, strong build quality, and platforms proven over decades. Data from reliability ratings, owner complaints, and high-mileage records shows that a small group of SUVs consistently outlasts most vehicles on the road.

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1. Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser consistently ranks among the most durable SUVs on the road. Designed for extreme conditions, it is common to see Land Cruisers exceed 250,000 miles (about 402,000 km) with proper care.

Its reputation for reliability comes from overbuilt components, four-wheel drive systems, and engines tuned for longevity rather than efficiency.

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2. Lexus GX

The Lexus GX shares much of its DNA with the Land Cruiser. Built on a body-on-frame platform, it combines luxury with off-road prowess. Owners report high mileage with relatively few major repairs, making it one of the longest-lasting luxury SUVs available.

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3. Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota Sequoia is one of the most reliable full size SUVs ever sold, with roughly 47 percent of Sequoias surpassing 250,000 miles.

Based on a pickup truck platform, it uses proven Toyota engines that rarely suffer major failures. While fuel costs are higher, maintenance costs tend to be predictable, which helps keep the vehicle running for decades.

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4. Chevrolet Suburban

The Chevrolet Suburban has been on the road for generations. Its long production history means parts availability and mechanical familiarity work in its favor.

When properly maintained, many Suburbans log extremely high mileage, especially older model years with simpler drivetrains.

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5. GMC Yukon XL

The GMC Yukon XL shares its foundation with other full size GM SUVs. It offers three spacious rows, large cargo space, and engines known for durability.

While reliability can vary by model year, well-maintained examples often outlast the segment average.

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6. Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner remains a standout in the midsize SUV segment.

Its body-on-frame design and proven powertrain contribute to outstanding long-term reliability, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles (321,869 km) even after years of off-road use.

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7. Lexus RX

The Lexus RX shows that unibody SUVs can also last. It boasts strong build quality and above-average reliability, with relatively few owner complaints and low long-term repair costs.

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8. Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a reliable midsize SUV built for families. It offers three rows of seating, good interior space, and engines known for longevity when serviced on schedule.

While not as rugged as truck-based SUVs, it still exceeds the average car lifespan.

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9. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander balances reliability and comfort.

Both gas and hybrid versions earn solid predicted reliability scores. The Highlander Hybrid, in particular, benefits from Toyota’s proven hybrid systems that hold up well over time.

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10. Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler earns its place through simplicity. Its design prioritizes off roading and mechanical access, which makes repairs easier over a long ownership period.

Rust issues can be a concern, but a well-maintained Jeep Wrangler can reliably last around 200,000 miles—and even beyond 300,000 to 400,000 miles (482,303 to 643,738 km) with excellent care.

What Makes an SUV Last So Long?

The long-lasting SUVs share clear traits: They rely on proven platforms, avoid overly complex features, and respond well to proper care.

Vehicles built with durability in mind consistently beat the segment average for reliability and high-mileage performance.

Choosing one of these models does not eliminate maintenance, but it greatly improves your odds of driving the same SUV long after others have moved on.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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