Enduring Vehicles

The Long Haul

There’s an indescribable charm about cars that have clocked serious miles. Maybe it’s the stories they carry or the solid sense of reliability they project. Sure, the allure of a fresh-off-the-lot ride is tempting, but there’s merit to a vehicle that’s been around the block a few times—sometimes literally hundreds of thousands of miles. It’s the kind of vehicle you’d buy with over 200,000 miles on it and still rest easy at night.

Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser has become somewhat of a legend in the high-mileage realm. Known for its robust engineering, it’s like a piece of military hardware on wheels. Even with 200,000 miles under its belt, a properly maintained Land Cruiser feels like it’s just getting started. Particularly, the 100- and 200-series models are commanding hefty prices in the used car market, showing no fear of the 300,000-mile mark.

Lexus LS Series

Move over to Lexus, and the LS400 and LS430 models quickly come to mind. These sedans were pivotal in establishing Lexus’s reputation for luxury and reliability. With a 4.3-liter V8 engine, the LS430 offers a silky-smooth drive that remains powerful and poised. The automatic transmission complements its refinement, managing high miles with aplomb.

Honda Accord

For those who appreciate practicality, the Honda Accord—especially its four-cylinder models from the 2000s and 2010s—earn a spot on this list. The 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine inside these Accords is a marvel of dependability, often logging well over the 200,000-mile threshold without breaking a sweat. It’s a no-nonsense vehicle that often remains a reliable daily driver for many families.

Ford Crown Victoria

No conversation about high-mileage heroes would be complete without mentioning the Ford Crown Victoria. An icon of American car culture, it’s hard to miss in its unmistakable role as police car and taxi cab. With its robust 4.6-liter V8 engine and body-on-frame construction, this car is practically indestructible, outlasting many of its contemporaries.

These vehicles prove that reliability can often be more valuable than any new-car warranty. They’ve conquered roads and racked up miles with grace, all while gaining a loyal fanbase. So, the next time the question arises about which car to trust beyond 200,000 miles, there’s a good chance one of these will be the top choice.