Longevity You Can Count On
Longevity isn’t a bonus with some cars—it’s the whole point. Known to outlast their competition by hundreds of thousands of miles, a few cars keep performing long after others fade out. Those models have proven themselves in the taxi business, on job sites, in family driveways, and across tough terrain. If endurance and value matter more to you than the badge on the hood, here are 20 of the most durable cars to ever grace the roads.
1. Toyota Land Cruiser
The Land Cruiser easily tops 300,000 miles with regular care. Built to conquer tough lands, this car is trusted in deserts and war zones worldwide. Even decades later, demand remains high. In Africa and Australia, many Land Cruisers keep rolling strong after 25 years.
2. Honda Accord
Honda Accord routinely reaches 250,000 miles on its original drivetrain, and it’s been featured in iSeeCars’ “Longest-Lasting Cars” studies. Across North America, older models still handle daily drives. Bonus: Even at high mileage, upkeep stays surprisingly affordable.
3. Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner, known for its rugged truck chassis, takes on brutal trails with ease. The car holds its resale value exceptionally well and remains a top pick for adventurers and off-road enthusiasts. Many push well beyond 300,000 miles without major issues.
4. Toyota Tacoma
Tacomas are known to exceed 300,000 miles, backed by a rock-solid frame and powertrain. Even after years, its resale value stays high, and it consistently ranks as the most reliable midsize truck. Tacomas are highly trusted by tradespeople and off-roaders who demand durability.
5. Lexus LS 400
Built during Toyota’s golden age of overengineering, the LS 400 was designed to go the distance—and it does. With proper maintenance, it can reach 500,000 miles. Decades later, the car still runs smoothly fav. It’s a favorite among high-mileage luxury drivers.
6. Subaru Outback
The Outback routinely crosses 200,000 miles, thanks to its reliable symmetrical all-wheel drive. Owners love its long-lasting body, which resists rust better than most cars in its class. This car is built for tough winters, rough roads, and steep climbs.
7. Volvo 240
The Volvo 240’s engine was designed to surpass 400,000 miles, and many have done just that. Its legendary, tank-like body helped earn cult status among vintage car lovers. Today, the 240 is still proudly cited in “Million Mile” car clubs for its staying power.
8. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Diesel (W124)
This turbo diesel icon, built in the late '80s and early '90s, still cruises European roads with ease. Engineered to outlast newer luxury models, it remains a benchmark for long-term reliability. With consistent care, many confidently reach over 500,000 miles or more.
9. Ford Crown Victoria
Taxi and police fleets trusted the Crown Vic to run past 300,000 miles. With its tough body-on-frame construction, it handled wear better than most. Retired models often keep going, and repairs are simple, which makes them favorites among DIY mechanics.
U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Wikimedia
10. Mazda MX-5 Miata
This lightweight roadster keeps stress off its parts with a simple, durable design. It’s still a staple in amateur racing circles and resists wear better than expected. Due to its bulletproof engine, many owners report 200,000+ miles with original components.
Shadman Samee from Dhaka, Bangladesh on Wikimedia
11. Chevrolet Suburban
America’s longest-running nameplate, the Suburban, is built for the long haul—literally. It’s commonly used by government and military fleets and often hits 250,000 miles. Thanks to its size and strength, this Chevy remains a go-to for families and heavy-duty drivers alike.
12. Honda Civic
Civics easily break 200,000 miles with minimal fuss. The car is loved for its reliability, low costs, and no-nonsense design. Common in rideshare fleets, the Honda Civic racks up serious mileage. With cheap, accessible parts, keeping them on the road is refreshingly simple.
13. Mercedes-Benz W123
This German icon was built during an engineering golden era, and it shows. Diesel versions often pass 500,000 miles. Still active as taxis in some countries, the W123 is one of the few luxury sedans that reliably keeps moving across decades and borders.
14. Honda CR-V
Built on the dependable Civic platform, the CR-V features an upgraded drivetrain that delivers strong long-term value. Retirees and commuters rely on its smooth ride and low-cost upkeep. Even in later years, it stays budget-friendly and often surpasses 250,000 reliable miles.
15. Acura MDX
The MDX shares its rock-solid V6 with Honda and is often seen crossing the 250,000-mile mark. Despite its age, resale value stays strong. Owners rave in forums about its long-term dependability and minimal drivetrain trouble, even after heavy use.
16. Jeep Cherokee XJ
With its legendary 4.0L inline-6 engine, the XJ has hit over 300,000 miles in countless cases. The car’s simple mechanics make fixes easy and affordable. Still popular off-road, it enjoys cult status for dependability and durability in difficult conditions.
17. Lexus GX 470
A cousin to the Land Cruiser, the GX 470 blends a rugged V8 with refined comfort and everyday drivability. It tackles off-road trails with confidence yet remains smooth on pavement. Crossing 300,000 miles is common, which makes it a hot commodity in the used SUV market.
18. Toyota Prius
Hybrid batteries in the Prius often last well beyond 200,000 miles, with taxi fleets logging over 300,000. Maintenance stays cheap and simple. After years on the road, its fuel economy remains consistent, which is why the Prius still dominates hybrid sales.
19. Nissan Frontier
The Frontier flies under the radar, but older models earn serious respect for their mechanical durability and grit. Thanks to a simple engine and few failure points, it outlasts many rivals. With regular use and care, these trucks often push well past 300,000 dependable miles.
20. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
A favorite among farmers and haulers, the Silverado’s legendary reliability keeps it going strong year after year. As one of the most enduring full-size pickups ever made, its parts and service are easy to find. Many continue running well past 250,000 miles without major issues.
