2016 Vehicle Dependability Study: Most Dependable Midsize SUVs
To measure design- and defect-related problems with 3-year-old vehicles, J.D. Power annually surveys original owners of cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. These vehicle owners share with J.D. Power what has gone right and what has gone wrong with their aging vehicles.
Based on the collected data, J.D. Power analyzes the information and publishes its findings in the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). From the summarized data, the company also formulates Power Circle Ratings that consumers can reference when researching a vehicle purchase.
This buyer’s guide highlights the top-rated 2013 midsize SUVs that receive a Power Circle Rating of 4 or 5 out of a possible 5 for vehicle dependability after 3 years of ownership. To research 3-row SUVs, please see our separate guide covering Family SUVs.
2013 Ford Edge
A 5-passenger crossover SUV, the 2013 Ford Edge came in SE, SEL, Limited, and Sport trim levels. Buyers selected between three different engines: a turbocharged 4-cylinder; 3.5-liter V-6; or a 3.7-liter V-6, the latter exclusive to the Edge Sport. In 2013, Ford updated the MyFord Touch infotainment system.
The 2013 Ford Edge receives a Vehicle Dependability Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.
2013 Honda Crosstour
Based on the previous-generation Honda Accord platform, the Honda Crosstour was intended to become a rival to the Subaru Outback, but its fastback styling restricted cargo space, reducing the utility sought by buyers in this segment. For 2013, Honda freshened the Crosstour, adding numerous infotainment and safety technologies while updating the styling and optional V-6 powertrain.
The 2013 Honda Crosstour receives a Vehicle Dependability Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.
2013 Nissan Murano
Equipped to carry 5 people and a fair amount of cargo, the Nissan Murano was positioned as a premium crossover SUV. In 2013, Nissan made more equipment either standard or available for the popular SV trim level, and introduced new collision-avoidance technologies for the more expensive SL and LE versions.
The 2013 Nissan Murano receives a Vehicle Dependability Power Circle Rating of 5 out of 5 and earns a dependability award in the Midsize SUV segment.
2013 Subaru Outback
Essentially a Subaru Legacy station wagon equipped with a raised suspension and SUV styling cues, the Outback was one of the original crossover SUVs. In 2013, Subaru made minor modifications to improve fuel economy and the Outback’s ride and handling, and also introduced new collision-avoidance technologies to the vehicle.
The 2013 Subaru Outback receives a Vehicle Dependability Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.
2013 Toyota 4Runner
Built to go places and do things that most crossover SUVs can’t, the 4Runner—a traditional body-on-frame SUV—is also one of the most dependable SUVs you can buy. In standard format, the rugged 4Runner carries 5 people. A third-row seat is an option for this model. For 2013, Toyota made it easier to engage 4-wheel drive by swapping the transfer case lever for a switch.
The 2013 Toyota 4Runner receives a Vehicle Dependability Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.
2013 Toyota Venza
Based on the previous-generation Camry platform, the Toyota Venza is the exact opposite of the Toyota 4Runner. Seating 5 people in a roomy interior, the Venza is more like a station wagon than an SUV. Toyota freshened the Venza for 2013, adding standard equipment and touch-screen infotainment systems as well as revised styling details.
The 2013 Toyota Venza receives a Vehicle Dependability Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.
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