Consumer Reports Turns 90, and Nissan Is Having a Standout Year
Consumer Reports has been testing and rating products independently since 1936. As the organization marks its 90th anniversary with its May/June 2026 special issue, the car reliability data carries the weight of nearly a century of rigorous, owner-reported research. For Nissan shoppers in the Valley, this year's findings are worth a close look.
A Top Pick, Then a Top Brand
The story actually starts with last year's issue. In its April 2025 Auto Issue, Consumer Reports named the Nissan Sentra one of its 10 Top Picks for 2025. It's the publication's highest honor, awarded to models that excel in road testing, reliability, safety, and owner satisfaction. CR praised the Sentra for its comfortable ride, nimble handling, strong fuel economy, intuitive controls, and impressive standard safety features, noting that it delivers more than most shoppers expect at its price point.
That same issue also named the Nissan Rogue a CR Recommended model in the competitive compact SUV category, and listed the 2020-2021 Rogue among the 10 safest used cars CR recommends. That distinction was earned through strong crash test results, standard safety features across all trims, and solid reliability scores.
Fast forward to the 90th anniversary issue, and Nissan builds on that momentum with a brand reliability score that puts it at No. 6 out of 26 brands ranked. For a brand competing in the value and mainstream segments, that is a genuinely strong result.
What the Score Actually Means
CR's reliability rankings are not based on opinions or manufacturer claims. Every year, CR surveys its members about real problems they experienced with their vehicles over the previous 12 months. This year's data covers about 380,000 vehicles across up to 20 problem areas, ranging from minor issues like squeaky brakes and trim problems to serious concerns involving the engine, transmission, EV battery, and charging system. Scores range from 0 to 100, with 41 to 60 considered the average range. With the top-ranked brand scoring 66 and Nissan scoring 57, the distance between first place and sixth is less than 10 points, a tight field by any measure.
Several individual Nissan models posted strong scores in the reliability predictions chart. The Nissan Kicks scored 76 in the subcompact SUV category. The Nissan Rogue scored 61 in the compact SUV segment. The Nissan Frontier came in at 62 among mid-sized pickups. The Nissan Pathfinder scored 54 in the three-row SUV category.
What It Means for Shoppers and Owners
A strong reliability score has real consequences over the life of a vehicle. Fewer unexpected repairs mean fewer dealer visits, lower out-of-pocket costs once the warranty ends, and more confidence in the vehicle you drive every day. For used-car shoppers, reliability data is especially valuable. A brand that scores well in CR's survey is one whose vehicles tend to hold up over time, not just in the first year or two.
CR also noted in the anniversary issue that Asia-based automakers continue to lead the industry in reliability overall, and Nissan fits comfortably within that tradition.
Find Your Nissan at Coulter Nissan in Surprise
Whether you are shopping for a new Nissan, exploring certified pre-owned options, or just want to talk through what the data means for your next purchase, the team at Coulter Nissan in Surprise is here to help. Stop by, give us a call, or reach out online. We would love to help you find the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Nissan rank in Consumer Reports' 2026 reliability survey?
Nissan ranked 6th out of 26 brands in Consumer Reports' 2026 reliability predictions. With the top-ranked brand scoring 66 and Nissan scoring 57, the distance between first place and sixth is less than 10 points -- a tight field by any measure.
Which Nissan models scored highest in Consumer Reports' reliability predictions?
In the 2026 CR reliability predictions chart, the Nissan Kicks scored 76 in the subcompact SUV category, the Nissan Frontier scored 62 in the midsized pickup category, the Nissan Rogue scored 61 in the compact SUV segment, and the Nissan Pathfinder scored 54 in the three-row SUV category.
Did Consumer Reports ever name a Nissan a Top Pick?
Yes. Consumer Reports named the Nissan Sentra one of its 10 Top Picks for 2025 -- the publication's highest honor. The Sentra was recognized for its comfortable ride, nimble handling, strong fuel economy, intuitive controls, and impressive standard safety features at its price point.
Is the Nissan Rogue a reliable used car according to Consumer Reports?
Yes. Consumer Reports named the 2020-2021 Nissan Rogue one of the 10 safest used cars it recommends, citing its consistent IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings, standard safety features across all trims, and solid reliability scores. A 2021 update brought additional upgrades.
How does Consumer Reports calculate its reliability scores?
Consumer Reports surveys its members each year about real problems they experienced with their vehicles over the previous 12 months. The 2026 data covers approximately 380,000 vehicles across up to 20 problem areas. Scores run on a scale of 0 to 100, with 41 to 60 considered the average range.
Where can I find a reliable Nissan in the Phoenix area?
Coulter Nissan in Surprise carries new and pre-owned Nissan inventory. Our team can help you find the right model based on your needs and budget. Stop by, call, or reach out online.