Consumer Reports Car Brand Rankings: Who’s on Top?

Consumer Reports Car Brand Rankings: Who’s on Top?

Posted on January 13, 2025

Consumer Reports has done it again—dishing out the ultimate rankings on which car brands truly deliver. From road tests to owner satisfaction, this report is a must-read if you’re serious about your next car. Spoiler alert: Subaru has taken the crown, edging out BMW for the top spot. When reliability and safety meet driving perfection, you know it’s a brand worth exploring.

Why Subaru Owns the Throne This Year

Say hello to the new king of the road: Subaru. With an impressive Overall Score of 79, this brand continues to dominate with its focus on safety, all-wheel drive, and everyday reliability. Models like the Subaru Outback and Forester aren’t just cars—they’re companions for any adventure. It’s not just about driving; it’s about driving smarter, safer, and with more confidence.

BMW Is Not Ready to Give Up Yet

Although dethroned, BMW isn’t backing down. With an Overall Score of 78, it remains a top contender for luxury enthusiasts. BMW’s blend of sleek designs, cutting-edge tech, and unmatched driving experience ensures it’s still a heavyweight. And let’s be honest, if you’re in the market for a car that turns heads, BMW’s lineup is hard to ignore.

The Rise of Lexus and Audi

Lexus climbed to third place this year, proving that luxury doesn’t mean compromising on dependability. Lexus has shown it can deliver smooth rides and satisfy customers while keeping maintenance costs surprisingly reasonable. Meanwhile, Audi was the showstopper, jumping six places to snag the sixth spot. With a mix of bold designs and innovative engineering, Audi is making waves for both mainstream and luxury shoppers.

Not Every Brand Is Winning Hearts

Let’s talk about the bottom of the barrel. Brands like Jeep, Land Rover, and Rivian are struggling, and it’s not a great look. Reliability is a major issue, with these brands ranking lower in almost every category. If you’re considering one of these, maybe rethink your options—or at least dig deep into individual model ratings.

The Cost of Excellence

High scores and exceptional performance don’t always come cheap. Subaru’s line-up, while affordable, holds its value in the mid-$30,000* range, while BMW starts at $50,000* and climbs from there. But remember a reliable car saves you money in the long run by dodging those costly repairs.

What This Means for You

Here’s the takeaway: even the highest-rated brands have hits and misses. Toyota’s Camry is an all-star, but Tacoma? Not so much. Consumer Reports is your cheat sheet for navigating these nuances. Whether it’s a high-performance BMW or an all-terrain Subaru, always look beyond the badge to the individual model’s ratings.

Make the Smart Choice with Rally Subaru

When it comes to finding a vehicle that checks all the boxes—safety, reliability, and owner satisfaction—Rally Subaru is the destination you can count on. With Subaru crowned as the top brand by Consumer Reports, this is your chance to invest in a car that not only meets your needs but exceeds expectations on every level. Explore our inventory today and see why Subaru truly is the smarter choice.

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