Key Takeaways

1. Both Honda and Toyota rank among the most reliable car brands in 2025, but Toyota edges Honda in long-term reliability and resale value, thanks to Toyota's reputation for dependability and high resale value.
2. Honda often wins on driving feel, tech features, and comfort in small cars, SUVs, and minivans, while Toyota dominates trucks, large SUVs, and overall durability.
3. For Jacksonville, FL buyers shopping used, the right choice depends more on specific model, year, and maintenance history than on brand name alone.
4. Toyota vehicles tend to depreciate around 35% over five years compared to 38–40% for many Hondas, giving Toyota a slight edge in long-term value.
5. Merit Auto Group in Jacksonville can show you side-by-side used Honda and Toyota options with free CARFAX reports, 70-point inspections, and financing support for all credit situations.

Honda vs Toyota Overview (2025 Perspective)

Toyota vs Honda stand as the two most trusted Japanese automakers in the world, and that reputation translates directly into the used car market. When Jacksonville drivers search for a reliable used vehicle, these two brands consistently rise to the top of the list.

This article focuses on used vehicles—roughly model years 2015–2024—that are most relevant to Jacksonville and North Florida drivers. Whether you’re commuting down I-95, hauling gear to the beach, or managing a growing family, understanding the differences between these great cars can save you money and headaches down the road.

At a high level, Toyota is known for conservative engineering and long-term durability. Honda is recognized for smart packaging, engaging driving dynamics, and family-friendly cabins. Both build excellent vehicles, but they excel in different areas, and each brand offers a diverse line of vehicles—from compact sedans and hybrids to SUVs, trucks, and minivans—ensuring there’s a model in each line to fit a wide range of needs and preferences.

The major comparisons in this guide reference 2025 reliability rankings, resale trends, and well-known models like the Toyota Camry, Corolla, RAV4, and Tacoma alongside the Honda Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, and Odyssey. At Merit Auto Group, we evaluate both brands using inspection data, CARFAX histories, and local ownership and repair patterns we see across Jacksonville every day.

Pricing and Cost of Ownership: Honda vs Toyota

When you’re shopping for a used car, the sticker price is just the beginning. Total cost of ownership includes depreciation, maintenance, fuel economy, and unexpected repairs—all factors that separate a good deal from a money pit.

Historically, comparable new Toyotas (Camry vs Accord, RAV4 vs CR-V) often start slightly cheaper than their Honda counterparts. This pricing difference filters into the used market, where you’ll frequently find Toyota models priced a bit lower for similar mileage and condition.

Looking at 5-year ownership costs, a Toyota Corolla typically runs around $30,000 total (including purchase, maintenance, fuel, and depreciation), while a Honda Civic lands a few hundred dollars higher. It’s a small gap, but it adds up over time.

Used Toyotas tend to depreciate about 35% over five years, compared to roughly 38–40% for Hondas. This gives Toyota a measurable resale advantage—something that matters whether you plan to trade in at Merit Auto Group in a few years or sell privately.

On the maintenance side, the picture is mixed:

Honda’s average annual maintenance cost runs slightly lower—around $420–$430 versus Toyota’s $440–$450. However, Toyota has a slightly lower rate of severe repairs over the long haul, which can offset those routine savings once you’re past 100,000 miles.

The good news? Buying from a Jacksonville dealer with a 70-point inspection and limited warranty can reduce the impact of these small brand-level cost differences. You’re not rolling the dice on an unknown vehicle history.

Reliability and Longevity

Both Honda and Toyota sit near the top of 2025 reliability rankings, with Toyota typically landing around 2nd place and Honda around 5th in major industry surveys. Both are far above average, but there are meaningful differences once you dig into the details. Some Honda models, especially older Odysseys, have had issues with broken transmissions, which can be a concern for buyers looking at high-mileage vehicles. In contrast, Toyota—and especially its Lexus luxury brand—has a reputation for durability, with many high-mileage models still running strong and often described as 'bulletproof.'

Toyota’s Reliability Edge

Toyota’s reputation for reliability stems from conservative engineering choices that prioritize durability over flash. Many Toyota models still use naturally aspirated engines paired with proven powertrains that have been refined over decades. The brand’s hybrid systems—found in the Prius, Camry Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid—have been perfected since the early 2000s and routinely run well past 200,000 miles without major battery or drivetrain issues.

Statistically, toyotas tend to have a 5–7% better chance of reaching 200,000 miles without major repairs compared to the industry average. Models like the Camry, Corolla, 4Runner, and Tacoma regularly surpass 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some SUVs reach 300,000–500,000 miles nationwide.

Honda’s Reliability Profile

Honda builds reliable vehicles, but the brand experienced some dips in quality around 2016–2018 model years. This period saw Honda transition to turbocharged engines and more complex transmissions in the Civic, CR-V, and some Accord trims. Some of these early turbo engines experienced oil dilution issues that later updates largely resolved.

That said, the CR-V, Accord, and Pilot remain recognized for long life, with many Florida owners easily clearing 200,000 miles when serviced on schedule. Honda’s repair severity tends to be slightly higher on certain turbo engines or older Odyssey transmissions, but well-maintained examples remain excellent long-term choices.

How Merit Auto Group Screens Used Vehicles

When we inspect used Hondas and Toyotas at Merit Auto Group, we avoid years and engines with known chronic issues when possible. If a vehicle has a documented concern, we flag it clearly in the description so you can make an informed decision with your eyes open.

Safety Features: What Jacksonville Drivers Should Know

When it comes to keeping you and your family safe on Jacksonville’s busy roads, both Toyota and Honda have built their reputations as reliable car brands by offering some of the most advanced safety features in the market. Toyota vehicles, in particular, have set the standard for safety innovation, with many models coming equipped with Toyota Safety Sense—a suite of technologies designed to help prevent accidents before they happen.

For example, the Toyota Camry and Toyota Tacoma both offer features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking, giving drivers extra confidence whether they’re commuting downtown or heading off road for a weekend adventure. The Toyota Corolla, another favorite among Jacksonville buyers, includes standard safety features that help it consistently rank among the most reliable car brands for families and commuters alike.

Honda models, such as the Civic and CR-V, are also highly regarded for their safety technology. Honda Sensing, available on many newer models, brings features like collision mitigation braking and road departure mitigation to the table. While both Toyota and Honda offer impressive safety tech, Toyota models often have a slight edge in terms of standard equipment and the breadth of features available across their lineup.

One reason Toyota wins in long-term safety and reliability is its focus on conservative engineering. Many Toyota vehicles use naturally aspirated engines, which are less prone to oil consumption issues than some of the turbocharged engines found in recent Honda models. This approach not only boosts reliability but also helps maintain high resale value—a key consideration for Jacksonville drivers who want a good car that holds its worth over the long haul.

Hybrid systems are another area where both brands excel. Toyota’s hybrid lineup, including the Prius and hybrid versions of the Camry and RAV4, is known for proven safety and efficiency, making them practical choices for drivers focused on fuel savings and low emissions. Honda’s CR-V Hybrid is a strong competitor, offering a blend of safety, value, and efficiency that appeals to many buyers in the market for a reliable SUV.

For families, minivans like the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey offer advanced safety features, spacious interiors, and strong reputations for reliability. The Toyota Sienna, with available all wheel drive and hybrid powertrain, is especially popular among Jacksonville families who need a practical vehicle for daily life and road trips.

Whether you’re searching for a rugged Toyota Land Cruiser for off road adventures, a fuel-efficient Corolla for city driving, or a versatile Honda Odyssey for family duties, both brands deliver great cars with a focus on safety and long-term value. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your specific needs, but Jacksonville drivers can feel confident knowing that both Toyota and Honda offer vehicles designed to keep you safe, comfortable, and satisfied for years to come.

Best Used Toyota Models to Consider

Some Toyota vehicles perform better than others in long-term reliability and resale, especially in Florida’s demanding climate. Here are the standout used Toyota models we regularly recommend to Jacksonville drivers:

Toyota Corolla (2016–2022) The Corolla is the quintessential reliable car—simple, efficient, and built to last. With over 43 million units sold worldwide since its U.S. debut in 1986, this model has earned its reputation through decades of consistent performance. Expect excellent fuel economy and minimal maintenance surprises.

Toyota Camry (2015–2022) The Toyota Camry remains America’s best-selling midsize sedan for good reason. The V6 and hybrid options deliver strong performance, while the platform is proven to handle high mileage without breaking a sweat. Roughly 12.4 million Camrys are on roads today, representing about 10.7% of all cars—a testament to their longevity.

Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid (2016–2022) The RAV4 is the compact SUV benchmark for reliability. The RAV4 Hybrid, in particular, has been praised in durability tests for its efficient powertrain and low long-term maintenance needs. Both versions handle Jacksonville’s heat and humidity without issue.

Toyota Highlander (2017–2022) For families needing three-row seating, the Highlander V6 paired with an improved 8-speed transmission (2017+) offers smooth performance and excellent durability. These hold value exceptionally well in the Florida market.

Toyota Tacoma (2016–2023) The Toyota Tacoma is the gold standard for midsize trucks. Its body-on-frame construction, off road capability, and legendary resale value make it a favorite among Jacksonville contractors and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Toyota 4Runner (2010–2023) The 4Runner’s body-on-frame construction makes it ideal for long life and serious off road use. While it sacrifices some on-road refinement, it rewards owners with decades of reliable service and some of the strongest resale value in the SUV market.

Why Toyota Shines for Jacksonville Buyers

Toyota models offer excellent corrosion resistance for Florida’s coastal humidity, strong resale if you later trade in, and robust cooling systems designed for stop-and-go heat. A 2018 Camry or 2019 RAV4 in Merit Auto Group’s inventory that passed our 70-point inspection and carries a clean CARFAX with regular dealer service represents the kind of long term value Jacksonville drivers appreciate.

Best Used Honda Models to Consider

Honda offers some of the best-driving and most comfortable used sedans and SUVs, especially for city and suburban commuting around Jacksonville. Here are the honda models we recommend:

Honda Civic (2016–2022) The Civic consistently earns top marks for compact efficiency, tech features, and driving engagement. Later model years (2019+) resolved early turbo engine concerns, making them excellent choices for daily commuters who want more than basic transportation.

Honda Accord (2015–2022) The Accord delivers midsize comfort with a sportier driving feel than most competitors. Models with the naturally aspirated 2.0L engine tend to be more robust than some early turbo versions. The interior quality and highway comfort make it ideal for long I-95 drives.

Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid (2015–2022) The Honda CR V remains one of the best-selling compact SUVs for good reason—practical space, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride. The CR-V Hybrid (2020+) resolved earlier oil dilution concerns and offers excellent fuel economy for city driving.

Honda Pilot (2016–2022) The Pilot offers three-row family space with better driving dynamics than many competitors. It’s noted for good reliability among Honda SUVs and handles Jacksonville traffic with ease.

Honda Odyssey (2015–2020+) The Odyssey is the minivan benchmark for families. Magic Slide seats and a well-designed cabin make it practical for everything from school runs to road trips. Older transmissions had some known issues, but well-maintained examples remain excellent family haulers.

Honda’s Ride and Cabin Advantages

Honda excels at supportive seats for long drives, quiet cabins, and intuitive infotainment systems. These features appeal to Jacksonville commuters who spend significant time behind the wheel. At Merit Auto Group, we pay special attention to known Odyssey transmission and older turbo-engine issues during our inspection process, with these details visible in the CARFAX and service notes.

Category Showdown: Cars, SUVs, Trucks, Hybrids, and Minivans

Toyota and Honda trade wins depending on the vehicle category, with differences in power and driving dynamics often influencing the choice—whether you’re looking for strong engine performance in a sedan, SUV, or truck. Understanding these patterns helps Jacksonville used-car shoppers narrow their search to the brand that actually fits their needs.

Small and Midsize Cars: Civic vs Corolla, Accord vs Camry

Compact and midsize sedans remain popular among budget-conscious buyers and commuters looking for efficiency and low ownership costs.

Small Cars: Honda Wins The Honda Civic lineup earns some of the highest scores among compact cars in 2025, with some trims scoring above 9/10 in major reviews. The Civic’s driving feel, interior quality, and fuel efficiency give Honda the clear win in this segment.

The Toyota Corolla and Prius remain extremely reliable and efficient, with slightly lower average scores than the Civic but excellent long-term durability and lower risk of major issues. If your priority is keeping the car for 200,000+ miles with minimal worry, the Corolla delivers.

Midsize Sedans: A Close Race Both the Accord and Camry are excellent choices. The Accord leans toward sportier driving and upscale cabins, while the Camry often wins in pure reliability and resale value. Most people comparing these two won’t make a bad choice—it comes down to whether you prioritize driving engagement (Accord) or maximum longevity and value (Camry).

Purchase Guidance: Civic and Accord appeal to drivers who prioritize driving feel and features. Corolla and Camry are better for buyers planning to keep the car well past 150,000–200,000 miles.

SUVs: Small, Midsize, and Large

SUVs dominate the used market in Jacksonville due to family needs, beach trips, and occasional towing. Here’s how the brands compare across size classes:

Small SUVs Honda’s HR-V and CR-V (including CR-V Hybrid) often earn slightly higher review scores than Toyota’s RAV4, Corolla Cross, and bZ4X, mainly for ride quality and cabin finish. That said, the RAV4 remains extremely popular and reliable, with better off road variants available.

Midsize SUVs Honda’s Passport and Pilot score well for comfort and everyday usability. Toyota’s Highlander and Land Cruiser bring excellent durability and off-road capability. The 4Runner trades refinement for toughness—a fair trade for buyers who need a vehicle that can handle both city commutes and weekend adventures.

Large SUVs Toyota wins by default in this class because Honda doesn’t build a true full-size body-on-frame SUV. The Grand Highlander and Sequoia work well for large families and towing boats or campers around Florida.

Recommendation: Choose Honda SUVs for comfort and everyday family use. Choose Toyota SUVs for long-term durability, off road use, and towing in hot Jacksonville conditions.

Trucks and Minivans

Many North Florida buyers need either a pickup for work and recreation or a minivan for larger families.

Trucks: Toyota Wins Honda offers the Ridgeline, a unibody truck praised for comfort and daily usability. Toyota offers the Tacoma and Tundra—more traditional body-on-frame trucks with stronger off road, towing, and resale reputations.

If you need a truck that acts more like an SUV with an open bed, the Ridgeline is excellent. But if you need capability, toughness, and maximum value retention, Toyota trucks are hard to beat—few competitors can beat Toyota in this segment for long-term value and reputation. Toyotas tend to command premium prices even past 100,000 miles, which is why they sell so fast—the Tacoma often moves off lots in under 30 days.

Minivans: Split Decision The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna are the key players. The Odyssey often gets a slight edge for features and driving feel, while the Sienna (especially newer hybrid models) wins for fuel economy and lower long-term repair risks.

Many Jacksonville families compare a used Odyssey (with Magic Slide seats and strong interior comfort) vs a used Sienna (with hybrid powertrain and available all wheel drive on recent models). Both are available in the used market at Merit Auto Group.

Recommendation: Choose the Odyssey if you prioritize features and interior flexibility. Choose the Sienna if you prioritize fuel savings and Toyota’s hybrid reliability.

Hybrids and EVs

Both brands pioneered efficient vehicles, and hybrid availability is strong in the used market from roughly 2016 forward.

Hybrids Toyota offers more hybrid choices overall—Prius, Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, and others. Honda has fewer but highly rated hybrid trims like the Civic Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid.

Some analyses give Honda a slight edge in average hybrid review scores, but Toyota’s hybrid systems have a longer track record and often lower perceived risk with high mileage. If you’re buying a used hybrid with 100,000+ miles, Toyota’s proven systems offer peace of mind.

EVs Used EV options are more limited for both toyota and honda. Toyota’s bZ4X and Honda’s Prologue are newer entries, and buyers should research range, charging infrastructure, and warranty coverage on the battery before purchasing used.

For Jacksonville buyers, consider the region’s growing public charging network and the importance of shorter commutes for EV practicality. A detailed inspection and CARFAX report can reveal previous fast-charging habits and battery warranty status.

Used Honda vs Used Toyota: Resale Value in Jacksonville

Resale value matters whether you plan to trade in with Merit Auto Group in a few years or sell privately. It’s the money you get back from your initial investment, and it varies significantly between brands and models.

As of 2025, used Toyotas tend to hold value slightly better than Hondas overall. Depreciation runs closer to 35% over five years for Toyota versus 38–40% for many Hondas. Exact numbers vary by model and trim, but the pattern is consistent.

High-Resale Toyota Models:

1. Tacoma (commands premium prices even past 100,000 miles)
2. 4Runner (strong demand from off road enthusiasts)
3. Land Cruiser and Sequoia trims (low supply, high demand)

Strong-Resale Honda Models:

1. Civic, Accord, CR-V, and Pilot all maintain solid resale, just slightly behind equivalent Toyotas when mileage and condition are similar.

How Merit Auto Group Sets Trade-In Values

We evaluate trade-ins based on brand reputation, mileage, service records, accident history, and Florida-specific condition issues like sun damage or flood exposure. A clean maintenance history and documented service records can significantly boost your trade-in offer.

Example Scenario: A Jacksonville owner trading a 2019 Toyota Tacoma versus a 2019 Honda Ridgeline with similar miles will typically see a higher trade-in offer for the Tacoma—sometimes by several thousand dollars—due to Toyota’s stronger resale in the truck market.

How to Choose Between a Used Honda and a Used Toyota

While Toyota generally wins on pure reliability and resale, the “right” choice depends on your lifestyle, driving habits, and budget. Here’s a decision framework:

Choose Toyota if you:

1. Plan to keep the vehicle 10+ years
2. Need to tow boats, trailers, or equipment regularly
3. Want maximum resale value when it’s time to trade in
4. Prefer proven powertrains with minimal complexity
5. Value off road capability (4Runner, Tacoma, Land Cruiser)

Choose Honda if you:

1. Prioritize driving feel and cabin comfort
2. Want slightly lower routine maintenance costs
3. Need a minivan with maximum interior flexibility
4. Prefer a sportier driving experience in sedans and SUVs
5. Value tech features and interior refinement

Focus on Model-Specific Research Don’t just compare Toyota or Honda as brands—compare specific models. A 2018 Camry vs 2018 Accord or a 2020 RAV4 vs 2020 CR-V will reveal different strengths and weaknesses. Check reliability data, recalls, and CARFAX history for the exact vehicle you’re considering.

Jacksonville-Specific Factors For drivers in our area, consider:

1. Stop-and-go traffic (hybrid systems can save significant fuel)
2. Summer heat (cooling system reliability matters)
3. Coastal humidity (rust resistance and interior material quality)
4. Afternoon thunderstorms (all wheel drive availability on some models)

Both brands build great cars for Florida conditions, but individual model features can make a real difference in daily comfort and longevity.

Ready to compare? Visit either Merit Auto Group Jacksonville campus to test drive used Honda and Toyota models back-to-back, review free CARFAX reports, use our payment calculator, and get an on-the-spot trade-in value.

FAQ: Honda vs Toyota for Used Car Buyers

Is Toyota really more reliable than Honda in 2025?

Most 2025 reliability rankings place Toyota slightly ahead of Honda overall—Toyota often lands around 2nd place while Honda sits around 5th. Both remain far above average compared to other brands, so neither is a bad choice.

The difference tends to show up after 150,000–200,000 miles, where Toyotas have a somewhat lower chance of severe repairs, especially in non-turbo engines and long-running hybrid systems. However, a well-maintained Honda can easily outlast a neglected Toyota. Service records and inspections matter more than the badge on the grille.

Which brand is cheaper to maintain: Honda or Toyota?

Average data shows Honda’s annual maintenance costs run slightly lower—by around $10–$20 per year—than Toyota’s. The gap is small enough that most buyers won’t notice it in their monthly budget.

Toyota’s lower severe repair rate can balance out slightly higher routine costs over the long term, especially past 100,000 miles. Merit Auto Group’s 70-point inspection and limited warranty on many vehicles can reduce the risk of expensive surprises no matter which brand you choose.

Are older Hondas (before 2016) more reliable than newer ones?

Many pre-2016 Hondas with naturally aspirated engines and simpler transmissions have excellent reliability records, especially the Accord, Civic, CR-V, and Pilot from this era.

Some 2016–2018 turbocharged Civic and CR-V engines experienced issues (like oil consumption and oil dilution) that later updates largely resolved. Buyers should pay close attention to model year and engine type, relying on CARFAX reports and mechanic inspections rather than just brand reputation.

Do Honda or Toyota hybrids cost more to repair when the battery fails?

Hybrid battery replacement costs for both brands are broadly similar once they’re out of warranty—often running into the low to mid-thousands of dollars depending on the model and whether a new or refurbished pack is used.

Toyota has the longer track record with hybrid systems, dating back to the early 2000s with the Prius, which gives some buyers more confidence for high-mileage used hybrids. Jacksonville shoppers should look for hybrid models with remaining battery warranty coverage and documented dealer service for maximum peace of mind.

Should I buy my used Honda or Toyota from a dealership or a private seller?

Private sales can sometimes be cheaper upfront but typically lack warranties, professional inspections, and easy financing options. You’re also taking the seller’s word on vehicle history and condition.

A dealership like Merit Auto Group in Jacksonville provides free CARFAX reports, a 70-point inspection, available limited warranty coverage, and flexible financing for buyers with a wide range of credit profiles. For most people—especially first-time buyers or those with imperfect credit—buying a used Honda or Toyota from a reputable dealer offers more protection and convenience than a private sale.

Whether you’re comparing a Camry to an Accord or weighing a Tacoma against a Ridgeline, the best used car is the one that fits your Jacksonville lifestyle and comes with a verified history. Both Toyota and Honda build vehicles designed for the long haul—your job is finding the right one with the right maintenance history at the right price.

Visit Merit Auto Group at either of our Jacksonville campuses to see used Honda and Toyota inventory side by side. Browse our selection online, pull free CARFAX reports, and use our financing calculator to find a payment that works for your budget. Our team is ready to help you drive home in a reliable car that meets your needs.