Consumer Reports (CR) generally ranks Hyundai and Kia higher in reliability and overall value compared to most North American automakers (Ford, GM, Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep), placing them in the upper-middle tier of brands. While Hyundai and Kia often achieve top-10, above-average reliability scores in recent surveys, their,
electric vehicle, (EV) models, like the EV6 and EV9, have shown lower reliability due to powertrain issues, with,
some models scoring as low as 24-25.
Key takeaways:
- Ranking: In 2026 reports, Hyundai has appeared in the top 10 brands, often alongside, Lincoln (the highest-ranked domestic) and ahead of, Tesla, Chevrolet, Ford, and Jeep.
- Vs. North American Brands: Hyundai/Kia generally outperform Detroit's "Big Three" in predicted reliability, with, Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodge frequently appearing in the bottom five, according to Consumer Reports.
- Strengths & Weaknesses: While traditional, hybrid vehicles from Hyundai/Kia rank high for reliability, their, electric vehicle and, {Link: plug-in hybrid models have faced, lower, , {Link: reliability scores for, infotainment, , {Link: or power equipment issues.
- Specific Models: The 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid achieved a high reliability score of 72, far exceeding competitors, according to data published in Driving.ca.
In summary, Consumer Reports views Hyundai/Kia as more reliable than most American brands, although they face stiff competition from Asian manufacturers like Subaru, Mazda, and Toyota, and their specific electric models have lagged in reliability.