Browse
Log in / Register
Share
A new study from iSeeCars highlights the SUVs that owners love so much they refuse to part with them—even after 15 years of daily driving. Released on April 7, 2025, the analysis examined over 929,000 vehicles from model years 1981 through 2009, calculating the percentage of 15-year-old or older SUVs that remained with their original buyers. The result is a list of 18 models that beat the industry average, with Toyota and Honda taking the lion’s share of spots.
The study’s benchmark is simple: the average across all vehicles is about 3.5% of original owners keeping a car for 15-plus years. The SUVs below all exceed that, some by a factor of two or more. Here’s the breakdown, from the highest retention rate down.
The king of long-term loyalty. Seven percent of original Highlander Hybrid owners still have theirs after 15 years—double the industry norm. The current model seats up to eight, returns 35 mpg combined, and offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Its reputation for reliability and strong resale value is a major draw. RepairPal gives it a 4 out of 5 reliability score, and owners routinely report passing 200,000 miles with little more than routine maintenance.
Just behind its hybrid sibling, the gas-only Highlander also boasts a 6.6% retention rate. It trades a bit of fuel economy (21–24 mpg combined) for up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity—1,500 pounds more than the hybrid. The quiet cabin and stylish design consistently earn praise from reviewers. J.D. Power rates the Highlander’s overall quality above average, and the 2025 model still offers a V6 option in some trims, appealing to buyers who want proven power.
Tied with the Ford Escape hybrid at 6.3%, the CR-V is a compact SUV that owners trust for the long haul. Non-hybrid versions get up to 30 mpg combined; the hybrid climbs to 40 mpg. J.D. Power scores it between 80 and 82 out of 100 for reliability, and the IIHS consistently awards it Top Safety Pick. Cargo space is generous for the class, and the CR-V’s ability to exceed 200,000 miles on regular maintenance makes it a favorite for owners who keep cars past a decade.
The Ford Escape hybrid has a loyal following, but 2026 will be its last model year. Ford first introduced a hybrid Escape in 2005, discontinued it in 2011, revived it in 2020, and now plans to retire it again. The current version returns 39 mpg combined with standard all-wheel drive and offers over 60 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Even after production ends, remaining 2026 inventory will be available on dealer lots. Owners who have held onto their older Escape hybrids often cite low maintenance costs and surprising off-road capability for a compact SUV.
America’s best-selling SUV has a retention rate of 6.2%. The current generation is all-hybrid, achieving 0–60 mph in about 7.5 seconds with front-wheel drive while still delivering strong fuel economy. Cargo space measures 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to nearly 70 cubic feet when folded. RepairPal rates the RAV4 4.5 out of 5 for reliability, and the IIHS has given it Top Safety Pick+ ratings. The RAV4’s combination of practicality, safety, and durability makes it a keeper.
