Known for their reliability: the best Japanese car brands are named

Japanese cars have long been a symbol of quality. Automakers offer reliable, efficient, and durable models that are characterized by an ideal price-performance ratio.

Usually, when people talk about Japanese cars, two brands come to mind – Honda and Toyota. Experts have published a rating of the best Japanese cars that meet the needs of the most demanding customers and demonstrate high reliability.

Mitsubishi

• Year of foundation: 1870
• Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
• Total sales in the United States for 2023: 87,340 units
• Category: compact sedans and SUVs

Mitsubishi was originally founded as a shipping company, and only in the 1970s did it start making commercial vehicles. In 2024, their lineup consists of only two compact sedans and four SUVs. For many decades, Mitsubishi occupied a stable niche in global markets before being pushed out by larger Japanese brands. The Outlander SUV is still a great, reasonable option for the average budget.

Nissan

• Year of foundation: 1933
• Headquarters: Yokohama, Japan
• Total sales in the United States in 2023: 898,796 units
• Category: Sedans and SUVs

Nissan has been at the forefront of Japan's automotive exports around the world. These cars are stylish, reliable, enjoyable to drive, and very well-equipped with technology. The brand's Altima model, the leader in the Nissan lineup, offers an incredible value for money. The Titan and Frontier pickups are consistently successful in the car market. Their robust construction combined with powerful engines make them ideal for any type of use.

Infiniti

• Year of foundation: 1989
• Headquarters: Nishi-ku, Yokohama
• Total sales in the United States in 2023: 64,699 units
• Category: Luxury sedans and SUVs

For many years, Infiniti has been competing with Lexus for the title of Japan's most luxurious automaker. This luxury brand is a subsidiary of Nissan. However, Infiniti has a long way to go to catch up with Lexus and their reliability status.

Subaru

• Year of foundation: 1953
• Headquarters: Ebisu, Shibuya, Japan
• Total sales in the United States for 2023: 632,086 units
• Category: sedans and station wagons

Subaru was a huge success in its golden years. In 2024, its cars are not among the top best or fastest, but the brand's heritage undoubtedly attracts loyal drivers and fans. Subaru is known for its symmetrical all-wheel drive system and high reliability. The Forester and Outback models are among the market favorites.

Mazda

• Year of foundation: 1920
• Headquarters: Hiroshima, Japan
• Total sales in the United States for 2023: 363,354 units
• Category: upscale sedans and SUVs

Mazda occupies a unique position among Japanese and global manufacturers. As one of the largest car manufacturers in the world, it is able to bridge the gap between economy and luxury. Models such as the Mazda3, CX-30, and CX-90 are proof that it is possible to get luxury elements in an affordable segment. By using more expensive materials, such as high-quality leather and a variety of woods, Mazda aims to attract buyers from Lexus, Infiniti, and even BMW.

Honda

• Year of foundation: 1946
• Headquarters: Minato, Tokyo, Japan
• Total sales in the United States for 2023: 1.16 million units
• Category: reliable sedans and SUVs

The Honda emblem is an absolute synonym for Japanese cars. These vehicles are popular all over the world due to their outstanding style and, most importantly, reliability. The Honda Civic and Accord are cars that can be seen in all corners of the world. The brand also offers safe and ultra-reliable SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot.

Acura

• Year of foundation: 1986
• Headquarters: Torrance, California
• Total sales in the United States in 2023: 145,655 units
• Category: luxury sedans and SUVs

As Honda's luxury division, it's no surprise that Acura is highly ranked in the global market. Two of the most popular models in the Acura lineup are the MDX and RDX SUVs and TLX sedans. These models offer a combination of high-end safety features and technological innovations that come as standard.

Toyota

• Year of foundation: 1937
• Headquarters: Toyota City, Aichi, Japan
• Total sales in the US for 2023: 2.24 million units
• Category: reliable sedans and SUVs

The Toyota name is a major symbol of reliability. Toyota has been a huge success for many decades. Even the brand's resale value is one of the best, which is of great importance in today's car market. The best flagship models are the Toyota Tacoma, Highlander, Camry, and Corolla.

Lexus

• Year of foundation: 1989
• Headquarters: Nagoya, Japan
• Total sales in the United States for 2023: 824,258 units
• Category: luxury sedans and SUVs

Lexus is the most luxurious and reliable Japanese brand. A 2023 Consumer Reports survey shows that Lexus is even ahead of its parent company Toyota. Of course, the brand does not have the same sales volume as Honda or Toyota, because it is a completely different premium segment.

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