The most and least reliable 4x4s and SUVs

Warranty Direct has been looking at the calendar and spotted that winter is well and truly on the way. And like many others, given the winter weather we've had over the past few years, the company has naturally turned its attention to 4x4s and SUVs.

The difference is that Warranty Direct maintains a Reliability Index, calculated using instances of failure, costs of repair and time spent in the garage noted in its very own aftermarket warranty books over the last 12 months.

This gives every 4x4 and SUV a reliability score, where the lower the figure the less likely the vehicle is to let you down when the going gets tough - and since that's the whole point of these machines this should make for interesting reading.

So if you're contemplating trading in your old wheels for some extra traction over the coming season you had best take a look at this list of the top 10 most reliable and the top 5 least reliable 4x4s over the past three to eight years before you commit that cash.

Especially since Warranty Direct also reveals that, regardless of anything else, these are some of the most expensive bits of machinery to run overall. Despite this, used prices are currently on the up - so act swiftly and sensibly if you want one.

Get a warranty quote for your car - from £15 per month
Winter Motoring Guide