When it comes to luxury SUVs, reliability matters as much as power, comfort, or tech. J.D. Power’s reliability score reflects the ownership experience of real buyers—how often problems crop up and how well vehicles hold up over time. Let’s take a look at the most reliable luxury SUVs, as J.D. Power reports.
Reliability scores based on the latest available J.D. Power data as of early 2026
The Smoothest-Riding SUVs Available Today
If you are looking for a cozy and luxury SUV, you want one that can ride out the bumps in the road with ease – here are the smoothest-riding SUVs.
2026 Tesla Model X
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100
The 2026 Tesla Model X enters this reliability ranking with a score of 81 out of 100. This rating from J.D. Power reflects owner-reported issues with design, build quality, electronics, and drivetrain systems that influence the overall dependability score. A score in the low-80s indicates that, among luxury SUVs, the Model X experiences more reported problems than many rivals. Unlike traditional automakers that rely on internal combustion engines, Tesla’s battery-electric tech and frequent software updates can contribute to both innovation and occasional reliability concerns.
The Model X is an all-electric SUV designed to compete with premium rivals on performance and range. It features dual electric motors and long-range battery options that promise brisk acceleration and substantial cruising distance on a single charge. The SUV’s distinctive falcon-wing rear doors and high-tech interior with a minimalist dashboard and large touchscreen reflect the brand’s futuristic philosophy. Despite its standout features, the Tesla Model X’s reliability score suggests buyers should be mindful of potential software glitches and electronic system issues over time.
In terms of ownership experience, reliability plays a critical role in long-term satisfaction. Because Tesla operates differently from legacy luxury brands—relying on over-the-air updates and fewer physical service centers—owner experiences can vary widely. For buyers prioritizing cutting-edge EV performance but also considering reliability, the Model X’s score is useful to weigh against other luxury SUVs that combine traditional engineering with premium credentials.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: NA
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $4,885
- Total Recalls: 3 (2025)
Find 2026 Tesla Model X and more cars for sale on our Marketplace
2026 BMW X5
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100
The 2026 BMW X5 ties with the Tesla Model X at an 81 out of 100 reliability score according to J.D. Power. This ranking places it solidly in the middle of the pack for luxury SUV dependability, indicating a balance of engineering excellence and occasional issues reported by owners. The X5 represents BMW’s flagship midsize SUV, blending performance, comfort, and technology in a package that competes directly with other European premium SUVs.
Under the hood, the X5 is offered with a range of powertrains, from turbocharged inline-six options to more powerful V8s in higher trims. All models typically come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and control. The interior is spacious and refined, featuring premium materials and a suite of connectivity and driver assistance tech that appeals to luxury buyers. Despite its engineering pedigree, the X5’s reliability rating reflects some owner-reported issues with tech complexity, electronics, and maintenance costs over time.
Buyers considering the BMW X5 should weigh its performance and refinement against its reliability score. While J.D. Power’s metric shows it performs reasonably well compared to the broader SUV market, potential owners should be prepared for maintenance that may be higher than average, particularly as model years progress. This makes the X5 a compelling but considered choice in the midsize luxury SUV segment.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $1,166
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $19,460
- Total Recalls: 4 (2025)
Find 2026 BMW X5 and more cars for sale on our Marketplace
2026 Lexus RX
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 82/100
The 2026 Lexus RX earns a reliability score of 82 out of 100 from J.D. Power, placing it just ahead of several competitors in terms of owner-reported dependability. Lexus has historically scored well in reliability studies, and the RX continues that trend. This score basically means fewer problems per vehicle compared to many European luxury models, making the RX a strong contender for buyers prioritizing long-term ownership without frequent issues.
The Lexus RX is powered by a choice of powertrains, including naturally aspirated V6 engines and available hybrid variants that emphasize efficiency alongside refinement. Standard features typically include advanced safety tech, all-wheel drive options, and a comfortable, quiet cabin with upscale materials. Lexus also gives the RX a healthy suite of driver assistance technologies.
Since the RX targets a market that values comfort and smooth operation, its J.D. Power score suggests owners report relatively few reliability concerns over the typical three-year evaluation period, which shouldn’t surprise anyone.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $550
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,842
- Total Recalls: 3 (2025)
10 Reliable Luxury SUVs You Won’t Regret Buying
What are some of the most reliable luxury SUVs avaiable? These ten top the list and offer the vareity to provide every driver with good choices.
Find 2026 Lexus RX and more cars for sale on our Marketplace
2026 Land Rover Defender
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 82/100
The 2026 Land Rover Defender also posts an 82/100 reliability score from J.D. Power. Land Rover’s reputation for rugged capability and off-road mastery is well established, but its reliability scores have lagged a bit since the relaunch. A score of 82 suggests that while the Defender is plenty capable and versatile, owners may encounter a similar number of reported issues as those who own a Lexus RX over a similar period. Honestly, an amazing thing that is.
The Land Rover Defender’s engineering centers around a durable yet sophisticated all-terrain chassis, multiple off-road driving modes, and available advanced technologies like adjustable air suspension and terrain response systems. Power usually comes from turbocharged engines ranging from inline-six options to more powerful V8s in performance trims. However, the complexity associated with these systems can sometimes contribute to reliability concerns, particularly with electrified components and advanced safety tech.
Despite the reputation, the Defender’s reliability score highlights a compelling spot between capability and long-term dependability in the luxury segment. For anyone who wants a bit of adventure and performance but still wants a vehicle that holds up over years of ownership, the Defender seems to be getting there. But there is still a chance that owning one may require more attention to maintenance and service than some other SUVs.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $1,174
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $18,097
- Total Recalls: 1 (2025)
Find 2026 Land Rover Defender and more cars for sale on our Marketplace
2026 Porsche Cayenne
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
The 2026 Porsche Cayenne achieves an 83 out of 100 reliability score from J.D. Power, placing it among the more dependable luxury SUVs on the list. Porsche continues to build on its reliability and utility reputation by making its SUVs better by the year. The Cayenne’s score reflects relatively low owner-reported problems compared to many premium peers, signaling strong build quality and component durability.
Available powertrains for the Cayenne are wide-ranging, from turbocharged V6 engines to performance-oriented V8s and plug-in hybrid variants. Porsche’s engineering emphasis on driving dynamics and handling remains evident, even in SUV form. Standard features typically include tuned suspension, fancy, smart braking systems, and plenty of tech in the cabin.
With a growing history of performance SUV design, the Cayenne blends luxury comfort with sporty driving dynamics. Its reliability score feels like a miracle, but there it is. It’s a strong contender for those who want sports-car fun with comfortable long-term ownership.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $1,231
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $12,494
- Total Recalls: 2 (2025)
2026 Genesis GV80
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
The 2026 Genesis GV80 earns an 83 out of 100 reliability score, placing it alongside the Porsche Cayenne in terms of owner-reported dependability. Genesis, as Hyundai’s luxury division, has been a rocketship of improvement and rebranding. The brand’s growing reputation for quality and long-term satisfaction is a force. The GV80, in particular, has been praised for its combination of comfort, technology, and value within the luxury SUV segment.
The GV80 typically features a choice between turbocharged four-cylinder engines and more potent V6 options, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. The interior layout combines upscale materials with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, infotainment interfaces, and comfort-focused amenities.
This reliability score suggests that the GV80 owners are happy with it. This shows fewer reported issues relative to many European rivals, especially impressive at the price point. Genesis’s focus on simplifying complex systems and emphasizing build quality appears to translate into positive real-world reliability, making the GV80 a killer alternative for buyers who want a fancy SUV without the highest price tag.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $565
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $9,836
- Total Recalls: 1 (2025)
Want A Reliable Jaguar? These 10 Models Have Proven Themselves
Jaguars don’t have the best reputation for being reliable, but these 10 models buck the trend and have proven themselves as dependable companions.
2025 Audi Q3
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 86/100
The 2025 Audi Q3 stands out in this ranking with a reliability score of 86 out of 100. Though a model year earlier than some other entries on this list, the Q3’s high score from J.D. Power reflects a strong ownership experience with fewer reported issues across key systems. Audi’s engineering focus on compact luxury and refined performance extends to the Q3, making it one of the most dependable SUVs in its class.
The Q3’s powertrain is a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine mated to a seven- or eight-speed transmission, depending on drivetrain configuration. Quattro all-wheel drive is often standard or available, contributing to confident handling and traction in varied conditions. Interior design emphasizes both quality materials and modern tech usability, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
With an above-average reliability ranking, the Q3 offers a compelling mix of premium features, is pretty quick, and has strong build quality. This makes it a standout among smaller luxury SUVs, appealing to buyers who want the prestige of a European badge along with above-average reliability.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $524
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $9,836
- Total Recalls: 1
2026 BMW X6
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 89/100
The 2026 BMW X6 earns an 89 out of 100 reliability score from J.D. Power, making it one of the higher-ranking luxury SUVs on this list. It’s absolute insanity that something so fast and powerful could earn this high score. The X6 has a coupe-like look with SUV functionality, combining distinctive design with engineering excellence. Its crazy reliability score suggests that owners experience very few problems relative to the rest of the field.
Available powertrains for the X6 range from potent turbocharged inline-six engines to beefy V8 options, all paired with BMW’s signature eight-speed automatic transmission and available xDrive all-wheel drive. The cabin is heavy with premium materials, advanced infotainment systems, and a driver-focused layout that reflects BMW’s performance ethos.
This strong reliability rating underscores BMW’s ability to balance performance and dependability, even in a segment where technology and luxury features can sometimes introduce complexity. For buyers seeking a sharp luxury SUV that also scores well in dependability metrics, the X6 is a knockout.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $1,260
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $19,624
- Total Recalls: 3 (2025)
2026 Buick Encore GX
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 90/100
Topping this list is the 2026 Buick Encore GX with a reliability score of 90 out of 100 from J.D. Power. This score indicates very few reported defects or issues among owners, putting it above all other luxury SUVs ranked here in terms of dependability. Buick has historically performed well in these surveys, often scoring high in build quality and owner satisfaction.
The Encore GX is a subcompact luxury SUV with a choice of efficient turbocharged engines, typically a 1.2- or 1.3-liter three-cylinder paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. Despite its smaller size, the Encore GX offers practical utility, modern safety tech, and user-friendly infotainment features.
Given its high reliability score, the Encore GX offers buyers confidence that their premium SUV will deliver a dependable ownership experience with fewer surprises. It combines approachable luxury with strong dependability, making it a standout choice for buyers seeking a reliable, well-built luxury SUV.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost According to RepairPal: $608
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,840
- Total Recalls: 4 (2025)
TopSpeed’s Take
At the end of the day, the most reliable luxury SUV isn’t just about avoiding repair bills. It’s about confidence. Confidence that your vehicle will start, drive, and deliver the premium experience you paid for year after year. Whether you prioritize comfort, understated design, or stress-free ownership, these J.D. Power standouts show that in the luxury SUV world, reliability isn’t a bonus feature. It’s the foundation.