When it comes to buying a car for the long haul, the engine is everything. You want something that’s powerful, efficient, and—most importantly—reliable.
Whether you’re looking for an everyday commuter, a family SUV, or even a bit of muscle, a durable engine can make all the difference in how long your vehicle lasts without headaches.
Here’s a rundown of the 20 best reliable engines out there for long-term ownership, so you can hit the road knowing your engine won’t quit on you.
1. Toyota 2.5L I4 (Toyota Camry, RAV4)
Toyota’s 2.5L inline-4 engine is legendary for its reliability and efficiency. Found in the Camry and RAV4, it’s a low-maintenance powerhouse known for crossing the 200,000-mile mark without breaking a sweat. It’s a fantastic option if you’re after a long-lasting daily driver.
2. Honda 1.5L Turbo I4 (Honda Civic, CR-V)
Honda’s 1.5L turbo inline-4 engine blends efficiency with Honda’s known durability. Found in models like the Civic and CR-V, this engine is built to last with minimal fuss, and owners love its punchy feel combined with outstanding fuel economy.
3. Ford 5.0L V8 “Coyote” (Ford Mustang, F-150)
This V8 engine packs serious power and reliability. Known as the “Coyote,” Ford’s 5.0L V8 has proven itself in the Mustang and F-150. It’s both powerful and surprisingly durable, delivering solid performance for the long haul.
4. Chevrolet 6.2L V8 (Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra)
Chevy’s 6.2L V8 is a workhorse, known for powering trucks like the Silverado and Sierra. If you want an engine that can handle heavy loads and high mileage, this V8 is one of the most dependable choices for trucks and SUVs.
5. Mazda 2.5L Skyactiv-G (Mazda3, CX-5)
Mazda’s 2.5L Skyactiv-G engine is efficient and extremely reliable. Found in models like the Mazda3 and CX-5, it’s famous for its smooth operation and long life expectancy, giving drivers plenty of worry-free miles.
6. Toyota 4.0L V6 (Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner)
For off-road fans, Toyota’s 4.0L V6 is almost iconic. Used in the Tacoma and 4Runner, this engine is tough, known for its ability to tackle rugged terrain without trouble. It’s an engine that keeps going, no matter where you take it.
7. Subaru 2.5L Boxer Engine (Subaru Outback, Forester)
Subaru’s 2.5L Boxer engine has built a reputation for long-lasting reliability. It’s in everything from the Outback to the Forester and is ideal for those in tough climates or who love adventure. Plus, its low center of gravity gives you a smoother drive.
8. Honda 3.5L V6 (Honda Accord, Odyssey)
Honda’s 3.5L V6 is smooth, efficient, and practically indestructible. It’s the engine behind the Accord and Odyssey, giving minivans and sedans the power they need to handle families, long trips, and plenty of cargo without compromising on longevity.
9. BMW B58 3.0L Turbo I6 (BMW 3-Series, Toyota Supra)
The BMW B58 inline-6 turbo engine has earned a name for itself as a robust and dependable powerhouse. It’s found in the BMW 3-Series and even the Toyota Supra, providing a fantastic blend of performance and long-term reliability.
10. Nissan 3.5L V6 “VQ35DE” (Nissan Maxima, 350Z)
Nissan’s VQ35DE engine is practically a legend. Known for powering cars like the Maxima and 350Z, this V6 is durable, smooth, and known for its high performance while staying reliable even at high mileage.
11. Ford 2.3L EcoBoost (Ford Mustang, Ranger)
Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 turbo engine offers impressive power and fuel efficiency. You’ll find it in the Mustang and Ranger, where it’s proven to be durable and efficient, making it a reliable choice for those who want a balance of performance and economy.
12. Volkswagen 2.0L TSI (Volkswagen Golf GTI, Jetta)
Volkswagen’s 2.0L TSI engine is a compact turbocharged option that’s fun to drive and known for longevity. It powers models like the Golf GTI and Jetta, delivering great performance without sacrificing reliability.
13. Hyundai 2.4L Theta II (Hyundai Sonata, Santa Fe)
The 2.4L Theta II engine from Hyundai is a solid choice for a family sedan or crossover. It’s reliable, efficient, and designed to last, making it a popular engine in models like the Sonata and Santa Fe.
14. Mercedes-Benz 3.0L I6 Turbo (Mercedes E-Class, GLE-Class)
Mercedes’ inline-6 turbo engine is smooth, powerful, and known for its durability. It’s used in the E-Class and GLE-Class and represents German engineering at its best, providing a blend of luxury and long-term reliability.
15. Toyota 3.5L V6 (Toyota Highlander, Lexus RX)
This Toyota 3.5L V6 engine is found in many Toyota and Lexus models, including the Highlander and RX. It’s a highly reliable engine that performs well over hundreds of thousands of miles, making it a popular choice for SUV owners.
16. Chevrolet 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 (Chevrolet Tahoe, Silverado)
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine from Chevrolet is built for trucks and SUVs that need to handle tough conditions. Known for reliability and strength, it’s ideal for high-mileage, heavy-duty use, making it a favorite for trucks like the Tahoe and Silverado.
17. Kia 3.8L V6 “Lambda II” (Kia Telluride, Sorento)
Kia’s 3.8L V6 Lambda II engine is all about power and dependability. It’s used in models like the Telluride and Sorento, giving these SUVs plenty of muscle and reliability, making it one of the most respected engines in the mid-size SUV world.
18. Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar V6 (Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Wrangler)
The Pentastar V6 from Chrysler is a versatile and reliable engine. It powers the Pacifica and Jeep Wrangler, delivering strength for both family life and rugged trails. This engine is well-known for its resilience and low-maintenance needs.
19. Audi 2.0L TFSI (Audi A4, Q5)
Audi’s 2.0L TFSI engine is a turbocharged, fuel-efficient option that powers many of its models, like the A4 and Q5. Known for its performance and durability, this engine is perfect for those who want a balance of power and long-term reliability.
20. GM 2.0L Turbo I4 (Chevrolet Malibu, Cadillac CT4)
The 2.0L Turbo inline-4 engine from GM is compact, efficient, and surprisingly powerful. It’s found in models like the Chevrolet Malibu and Cadillac CT4 and is known for delivering reliable performance over the years.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking for power, efficiency, or a mix of both, these engines have proven themselves reliable for long-term ownership. From Toyota’s legendary 2.5L I4 to BMW’s B58 inline-6, there’s a dependable engine out there for every driver.
Choosing one of these engines means fewer trips to the shop and more miles on the road, which is exactly what long-term ownership is all about.
So, the next time you’re in the market for a new car, keep these engines in mind, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with true reliability!
