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15 Most Long Lasting Vehicles One Can Buy Today

Vukasin Herbez September 29, 2017

Everybody knows today’s cars are a lot more durable than vehicles of the past. Quality materials, modern build processes and technology ensure all cars in recent years are long-lasting, while offering safety and usability to car owners. However, some cars are more durable than others, simply because of their construction and intended use. As such, they are more likely to travel hundreds of thousands of miles. This list includes the best cars to buy if you need a dependable machine for years to come.

It is no secret that big SUVs and pickup trucks make up most of the vehicles on this list. The reason is quite simple. Big SUVs are common family transport and even some law enforcement agencies use them. Manufacturers know buyers of such models need dependability. So, they invest in materials, construction, design and quality components during the production of a specific model.

In fact, research shows that a big SUV’s average mileage is much higher than that of a regular passenger car. In these modern days, people use this kind of vehicle for all purposes, from regular daily commute to family trips or going off-road. Pickups also have a long list of duties and do hard work and heavy lifting, so manufacturers equip them with a strong chassis and a durable engine, which contributes to a longer life and high mileage.

The other important aspect of the longevity of a vehicle is maintenance. It is important for proper functioning of any vehicle, especially those that need to travel thousands of miles each year. Modern cars are capable of many miles if owners meticulously maintain them. But, most car owners are not that careful. With big SUVs that are the main family transport or pickups that are work tools rather than just transportation devices, owners tend to invest more in maintenance and spare parts.

This helps increase the durability and dependability, which makes those vehicles on top of this list. Here are the 14 most durable vehicles that are most likely to go over 200,000 miles. The information includes a statistic to show the percentage of all model years that have earned the mileage of over 200,000. If you buy the same car, SUV or truck, you can expect the same durability, quality, and longevity if you maintain your car properly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

1. Acura MDX – 1.3 Percent

The only crossover on this list is the Acura MDX which they first introduced in 2001. It is currently available in its third generation. With over 700,000 cars sold since its introduction, the MDX is quite popular, even though the crossover market is not as hot as it was a few years ago. The regular SUV managed to kill the minivan segment, as well as crossovers.

Honda is one of the manufacturers known for quality and the Acura MDX supports that claim. It is interesting how this is one of the rarest vehicles on our list. This is because it comes without the heavy ladder-typez chassis and tough suspension like full-size trucks or SUVs. Instead, this is a regular-built crossover with normal technology and components, yet it is still capable of traveling over 200,000 miles. This shows how efficient engineering, quality materials and high assembly standards can go a long way.

2. Cadillac Escalade – 1.4 Percent

In the world of luxury SUVs, the Cadillac Escalade is a well-known and respected name. The big, opulent, flashy, heavy and powerful full-size SUV is the king of the streets and one of the coolest vehicles General Motors makes today. It is also durable and built with quality since 1.4 percent of all Escalades have over 200,000 miles on the clock.

In case of luxury vehicles, this number is even more significant since luxury models are not built for high mileage. Also, most users don’t tend to own them for long or put them through tough tasks during ownership. So, this big SUV with body-on-frame technology, powerful engines and acres of leather is still quite a durable and long-lasting vehicle.

3. Dodge Durango – 1.5 Percent

The Dodge Durango is a well-known full-size family SUV that is quite popular in the North American market. Dodge introduced it in 1999, and it is still in production in its third generation. The first two generations, which they produced from 1993 to 2003 and from 2004 to 2009 were based on a Dodge Dakota chassis. This means they have strong underpinnings and a ladder-type chassis. This provides strength and durability to the Durango.

It also comes with a roomy cabin providing lots of space inside. Under the hood, buyers can find a selection of Chrysler V6 and V8 engines. Along with the mighty 5.7 Hemi with 350 HP, there is even a Hemi hybrid version in later models. Since the Durango was and still is a bit less expensive than its competitors and obviously a quality item, consider this model as your next big family SUV.

4. Toyota Tacoma – 1.5 Percent

The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size truck which they introduced in 1995. It soon became a popular vehicle for its compact size, strong engine, tough mechanics and durability. Currently, in its third generation, the Tacoma sells as a single or double-cab model with rear or four-wheel drive. Under the hood is a straight four-cylinder or V6 gasoline engine. Buyers have a long list of optional extras.

The construction includes a simple but tough ladder chassis and a well-constructed suspension. There is not much more to share about this truck except that it is dependable and will go a lot of miles.

5. Honda Accord – 1.6 Percent

It is a rare occurrence to see an ordinary passenger sedan in a long-lasting vehicle list. But, the Accord deserves to be in their company. In fact, 1.6% of Accords have passed the magical 200,000-mile mark and many more Accords will soon do the same.

There is no need to introduce the Accord to the car-buying public since the car has been on the market since 1976. Honda produced it in nine generations with the tenth coming next year. The Accord is a common, affordable passenger sedan with lots of options and dependable mechanics. Although it started as a compact car, Accord moved to the mid-sized segment and now is in the full-size segment.

6. Toyota Sequoia – 1.7 Percent

Another full-size SUV with truck underpinnings is the Toyota Sequoia, which is built on a Toyota Tundra chassis. Toyota introduced it in late 2000 and it is still on the market today. The Sequoia is the right choice if you are looking for a big, tough and dependable form of family transport. Available with a selection of V8 engines, there is plenty of power to move this big vehicle.

Even though it is not as popular as some domestic competitors, the Sequoia is still in demand among Toyota fans. For the 2018 model year, Toyota prepared a fully redesigned model with new features and upgrades.

7. Ford Taurus – 1.8 Percent

The first Ford Taurus appeared in 1986 at a time when big, full-size, rear-wheel drive American sedans were in charge of the passenger car market. Ford introduced this sleek, aerodynamic, front-wheel drive sedan that looked like it came from the future. It was a big success for the company and paved the way for other manufacturers. Today, over 30 years later, the Taurus is still one of Ford’s top sellers and one of the best sedans on the market.

Ford paid attention to design, quality engineering and drivetrain options. You can get the Taurus with a four-cylinder engine, as well as with a turbocharged V6 and up to 360 hp. But, the quality is certain. Out of all registered Ford Taurus cars, 1.8 percent have gone over 200,000 miles and they don’t plan to stop.

8. GMC Yukon – 1.9 Percent

The epitome of a big family SUV is the GMC Yukon. Identical to the Chevrolet Suburban, but positioned a little above it due to higher prices and better equipment, the Yukon is a status symbol truck. Big, spacious, powerful and quality made this is one of the best domestic vehicles and a true American car.

The current fourth generation has electronic safety systems, third-row seating, a tough chassis, four-wheel drive, heavy-duty suspension and much more. With two gasoline-powered V8 engines and a choice between a six or eight-speed automatic transmission, the Yukon is a car for every purpose. It is no surprise almost 2.0 percent of all Yukons from the early 1990’s to today have gone over 200,000 miles.

9. Lincoln Navigator – 2.0 Percent

When the first Navigator rolled off the assembly line in 1998, nobody could expect it would be such a successful, influential model. It wasn’t the first full-size luxury SUV or the biggest, but its combination of luxury, style, power, and performance were so captivating, it influenced the industry. Soon, General Motors and Chrysler put out similar models. In fact, the Navigator existed before the Cadillac Escalade, which came out a year later.

Currently, in its fourth generation, the Navigator is still one of the best models around and statistics prove that. Using the best of Ford’s technology, rugged underpinnings, tough components and quality materials, 2.0 percent of all Navigators have crossed the magical 200,000-mile mark.

10. Chevrolet Tahoe – 2.1 Percent

Most car enthusiasts know that the Chevrolet Tahoe is a virtual clone of the previous item on this list – the GMC Yukon. Aside from a few design details and the name, everything else is the same. So, it is no surprise that Tahoe is on this list.

With 2.1 percent of all Tahoes from early 1991 to late 2017 making it over 200,000 miles and still running, it shows how good the basic concept and components are. This is one of the best-selling family SUVs on the market. It comes with a V8 engine and automatic transmission, so it is capable of every task.

11. GMC Sierra 2500 HD – 2.7 Percent

This list continues with GM’s truck division, so next is the GMC Sierra 2500 Heavy Duty with a respectable 2.7 percent of all registered vehicles still going strong. This heavy-duty truck is among the most popular models on the market. It features durable components, a thick chassis, a strong suspension and a choice of V8 gasoline or diesel engine. It is also capable of towing and carrying a lot of weight.

The drivers who buy this kind of truck usually will put them to work. However, they still care about the condition and usability of their trucks. This is one of the reasons why the Sierra 2500 HD is so durable. They are made for tough tasks and can endure long drives. Also, owners care for their vehicles and keep them in the best condition possible as valuable workhorses.

12. Ford Expedition – 3.0 Percent

The Ford Expedition is one of the quintessential SUVs on the American market. With three percent of all Expeditions currently registered going over 200,000 miles, this model has a solid longevity record. With over 20 years on the market, the Expedition was always a great option for drivers looking for a big SUV capable of transporting people, as well as towing and carrying stuff.

Ford put it on rugged truck chassis. They also gave it a lineup of durable engines and a selection of interior equipment. With an affordable price, updated styling and high quality, it is no wonder Expeditions are popular cars among family buyers. Models like this singlehandedly killed those big station wagons and minivans. Simply, they were better looking, more capable and more durable than any of those.

13. Toyota 4Runner – 3.5 Percent

The 4Runner has been on the market for a long time. Toyota introduced in 1984 as a midsize off-road SUV with an emphasis on usability and capability, even in extreme conditions. Over the years, it grew and became more luxurious, but didn’t forget its off-road roots. The 4Runner has managed to avoid the evolution of many SUVs that started as capable machines but ended as highway cruisers. This is because it hasn’t traded its off-road credentials for comfortable seats or a plush ride.

Toyota invested a lot of time and effort in designing the 4Runner to be a usable machine and quality item. That paid off for them since 3.5 percent of all made 4Runners have done over 200,000 and are still going strong.

14. Chevrolet Silverado – 3.6 Percent

The main truck from Chevrolet is the famous Silverado. Despite the fact they introduced it in 1987, this is a derivate of a long line of Chevy trucks dating back to 1920’s. Produced in numerous versions and trim levels, the Silverado is a capable and durable machine. Chevrolet paid a lot of attention to chassis strength and suspension components.

Although the Silverado had some initial engine problems, Chevy sorted them out. This pickup is a highly dependable work machine which can easily go over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance and care. Available with a choice of V6 and V8 gasoline engines, the Silverado is also available with a diesel engine. This powerplant provides great fuel economy and a lot of torque.

15. Ford F-250 Super Duty – 4.2 Percent

Ford’s F-Series has been the best-selling domestic vehicle for years. It is one of the most dependable, which statistics clearly show. The success of the F-250 Super Duty is even bigger if you consider the number of vehicles Ford sold. In that case, 4.2 percent is a lot of trucks on the road that have covered 200,000 miles and are still going strong.

Ford knows this product is important, so they design and engineer every F-Series generation to offer the best quality to their customers. Their F-250 and F-350 Super Duty models are industrial-grade trucks Ford built for the toughest jobs out there. Of course, the F-250 Super Duty comes with a wide selection of standard and optional equipment. Consumers can enjoy it as a pure working truck, as well as a luxury machine with great usability.

If you want to get more miles for your money, consider one of these long-lasting vehicles. With proper care and maintenance, they’ll last for many years to come.

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