Lexus, Toyota, and Mazda vehicles were considered the most reliable in the 2018, while Volvo's vehicles were rated as the least reliable by Consumer Reports in their annual reliability report. The Lexus GX luxury SUV was named the most reliable vehicle, and three Toyota Prius models made the top 10.

Seven of the top 10 most reliable brands are from Japan and Korea, including Subaru, Kia, Infiniti, and Hyundai. European brands Audi, BMW, and Mini round out the top 10.

The domestic automakers finished lower on the list of 29 brands. Ford ranks the highest at 18, followed by Buick at 19. Cadillac is the worst-rated domestic manufacturer at 28. European brands Porsche, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz finished in the middle of the rankings.

Tesla fell six spots from a year ago to 27 and its Model S fell to below average. The vehicle is no longer recommended by CR, as it has been for several years. Tesla's Model X luxury SUV was rated "much worse than average" for reliability with ongoing problems with its falcon-wing doors. The Model 3 is considered average.

Several Detroit vehicles arrived on the list of recommended models, including the Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Suburban, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Lincoln Continental.

Ford's Taurus delivers "much better than average" reliability, while the Fusion falls to below average mostly due to problems with its Sync 3 infotainment system. GMC's Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL deliver average or above reliability. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles vehicles considered average or above include the Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Renegade, and Chrysler 300. Ram ranks 26 on the list.

Volvo fell six spots in part due to an infotainment system that's common to several models. XC60 owners reported problems with the climate system and interior cabin rattles.

Consumer Reports conducts an annual consumer survey and reports its findings. It also attempts to incorporate a prediction of new-car reliability in the overall score.