The Worst New Car and SUV Deals You Should Avoid Right Now, According to Consumer Reports
Thinking that shiny new SUV deal is a steal? Consumer Reports warns buyers to think twice. Their 2025 rankings show vehicles with poor value, low reliability, and disappointing owner reviews. The Volkswagen Taos is the second least reliable car for 2024, priced $1,000 higher for 2025.
Jeep ranks last in reliability among all 34 brands, with no model scoring above 45/100. Even popular models like the Ford Explorer placed 19th out of 26 midsize SUVs in repair rankings.
Consumer Reports car rankings highlight how high prices and low reliability create worst value cars 2025. The Hyundai Tucson, despite some reliability praise, faces engine failure reports. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L join Consumer Reports’ 10 least reliable vehicles.
These findings matter as compact SUVs now dominate sales, per Kelley Blue Book data, but not all deliver promised value.
Key factors like fuel economy and total cost of ownership also play roles. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s 19 MPG and the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid’s 21/100 reliability score underscore gaps between marketing and reality. Buyer beware: even luxury models like the Lincoln Nautilus, priced near $84,000 fully loaded, face steep costs without matching performance claims.
Key Takeaways
- Consumer Reports worst value cars 2025 include the Volkswagen Taos and Jeep models
- Volkswagen Taos 2025 prices rose $1,000 despite low reliability ratings
- Jeep ranks last in brand reliability, with Grand Cherokee SUVs in worst car rankings
- Hyundai Tucson’s engine issues persist despite RepairPal’s mixed ratings
- Luxury SUVs like Lincoln Nautilus face high costs vs. competitors
Consumer Reports Reveals Surprising Findings on Worst New Car Deals 2025
Consumer Reports’ 2025 report highlights worst new suv deals and cars to avoid buying. It challenges common beliefs about popular models. The report shows bad new car prices and new cars with problems, based on thorough testing.
How Consumer Reports Evaluates Vehicle Value
Every vehicle is tested in four main areas:
| Criteria | Scale | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Owner Satisfaction | 1–5 | Based on real-owner feedback |
| Road Test Score | 0–100 | Measures handling, tech, and safety |
| Total Cost of Ownership | Custom score | Includes depreciation, fuel, and maintenance |
Why Popular Models Can Be Poor Values
Even popular models like the Jeep Wrangler and Infiniti QX50 are cars not worth the price. They may look appealing, but high maintenance costs and low road test scores hurt their value. For example, the Ford Edge has a 43/100 road test score but is a worst auto financing deals choice due to hidden costs.
The Gap Between Marketing and Reality
“Marketing often ignores long-term ownership costs,” says Consumer Reports’ auto team. “A flashy worst lease deals offer might hide poor reliability.”
Automakers may promote bad new car prices, but Consumer Reports focuses on facts. Their worst cars by consumer reports list shows even luxury models like the Infiniti QX50 struggle in real life.
Understanding What Makes a Vehicle a Bad Deal
“If you’re shopping in 2025, be cautious—these models may look appealing on the surface, but dig deeper and you’ll find better alternatives elsewhere.”
Not all cars are good investments. Overpriced SUVs and cars with bad reliability can cost more in the long run. Look at the price-to performance ratio first.
The Ford Explorer, ranked 19th by RepairPal, shows a big gap between price and performance. CarsDirect data also lists it as one of the worst car purchases due to its high cost and low features.
Price-to-Performance Ratio Problems
Some 2025 cars to avoid charge too much without delivering enough. The Ford Explorer’s engine is not as strong as others, yet it costs a lot. The Nissan Rogue is cheap at first but loses a lot of value because of repair costs.
Reliability Concerns That Cost Owners
Some cars are expensive to fix, making them bad deals. Nissan Rogue owners face big repair bills. The Toyota Tundra’s engine is not good for fuel, costing owners a lot each year.
BMW 3 Series owners also deal with high repair costs, like turbocharger failures. This makes it a bad vehicle investment.
High Depreciation and Poor Resale Value
Some SUVs lose value quickly. The Nissan Rogue loses 25% of its value in the first year. Luxury cars like the BMW 3 Series lose 30% each year, making them worst value for money.
Kelley Blue Book says new cars lose 20% of their value in the first year.
Total Cost of Ownership Calculations
Buying cars with bad reliability means spending more on repairs and insurance. Insurance costs have gone up 12% in two years, adding $300+ yearly. The Tundra’s poor fuel economy adds another $1,500 each year.
Buyers need to think about long-term costs to avoid being least satisfied car owners.
SUVs That Fail to Deliver Despite Their Popularity
Popular SUVs often hide costs and flaws that make them worst new vehicle reliability choices. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L, despite their rugged image, rank among 2025 unreliable suvs. They have the worst mpg suv ratings at 20 and 19 MPG. These models also feature prominently in cars with expensive maintenance due to frequent mechanical issues.
| Model | Key Flaw | Consumer Reports Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Poor fuel economy, high repair costs | Bottom 10% for reliability |
| Tesla Cybertruck | 8 recalls, structural defects | Worst car brands 2025 due to safety failures |
| Toyota Avanza | Rapid depreciation | Ranked #1 in cars that lose value fast |
Midsize SUV buyers should avoid bad midsize suv deals like the Grand Cherokee L. It has worst mpg suv performance and cars with expensive maintenance. The Tesla Cybertruck is a clear example of automotive buyer beware advice. It has 46,096 units recalled for safety defects, making it a worst new vehicle reliability option.
Even compact SUVs like the Avanza face criticism for rapid depreciation. They are bad small suv picks. Shoppers should look at long-term costs, not just marketing, to avoid these traps.
The Jeep Wrangler: Iconic Design Masking Significant Value Issues
The Jeep Wrangler is known for its tough look but falls short in consumer reports worst list. It has reliability issues, making it a bad deal for many buyers.
Reliability Problems Plaguing Recent Models
Jeep is at the bottom (34/34 brands) for reliability, according to Consumer Reports. Owners face problems with:
- Steering and suspension malfunctions
- Electrical system failures
- Engine and drivetrain defects
These issues make the Wrangler one of the most complained about cars. Repair costs are also higher than average.
High Ownership Costs Beyond the Purchase Price
| Cost Category | Jeep Wrangler | Segment Average |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Economy | 19 MPG | 25 MPG |
| Annual Repair Costs | $1,200+ | $750 |
| Insurance Premiums | $1,800/yr | $1,200/yr |
The Wrangler is a bad investment due to its poor fuel economy and high maintenance. These factors increase long-term costs significantly.
Where the Wrangler Falls Short in Testing
In road tests, the Wrangler shows its weaknesses:
- Poor cabin quietness compared to competitors
- Outdated infotainment system
- Subpar handling on paved roads
While it excels off-road, its bad new sedans rivals are better for daily driving. The 2024 Consumer Reports tests show it lags behind in comfort and tech.
Ford Edge: Why This Midsize SUV Made Consumer Reports’ Worst List
The 2025 Ford Edge has a road test score of 81/100. Yet, it’s seen as an untrustworthy car brand because of its overpriced cars 2025 status. Consumer Reports notes a big gap between its performance and long-term value. It has a 74/100 reliability score and 3/5 owner satisfaction, making its price hard to justify.
Many owners face expensive car repairs for issues with the transmission and electrical system. Almost 25% of Edge owners need major repairs within three years, often not covered by warranty. Its worst depreciation cars status is evident: it loses 50% of its value after three years, 10% more than average.
Surveys show bad owner satisfaction due to frequent mechanical problems. 20% of owners report severe issues.
- Poor quality cars 2025: Many models suffer from electrical malfunctions and transmission defects.
- Car shopping mistakes include ignoring high repair costs and rapid value loss.
- Avoid these cars if you value long-term savings over short-term appeal.
The Edge has poor fuel economy (21 MPG city vs. 24 MPG average) and a 3/5-star safety rating. Its drawbacks outweigh its advantages in space and power. Buyers should look at the Toyota Highlander or Subaru Ascenta for better total cost of ownership. The Edge’s expensive car repairs and worst depreciation cars performance make it a risky choice for 2025 buyers.
Luxury Disappointments: Infiniti QX50 and Other Premium Models
Many are criticizing the Infiniti QX50 for its underwhelming performance and poor value auto. Consumer Reports advises buyers to be cautious of models like the QX50. It has a variable compression engine and CVT transmission that don’t impress.
Despite its high price, the QX50 feels more like a budget car than a luxury one. This is a big disappointment for many.
When Premium Prices Don’t Equal Premium Experience
The QX50’s underwhelming performance is a major concern. Its 2024 reliability score is lower than its competitors. Owners have reported issues with the transmission, leading to recalls.
Land Rover’s Discovery also falls short in city driving, despite its off-road claims. In contrast, Lexus and Audi models offer better value and performance.
Comparing Luxury Alternatives With Better Value
| Model | Reliability Score | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Infiniti QX50 | 32/100 | Styling only |
| Lexus NX Hybrid | 89/100 | Higher mpg, better tech |
| Genesis GV70 | 91/100 | Lower ownership costs |
The Lexus NX Hybrid leads with a high reliability score, while the QX50 lags behind. CR says buyers should expect more for their money.
Hidden Costs of Luxury Vehicle Ownership
- Depreciation: QX50 loses 30% value yearly vs. Lexus’ 20%
- Specialized parts: Infiniti service costs 15% higher than Audi
- Insurance: Luxury SUVs cost 20% more to insure
Buying the QX50 can lead to unexpected expenses. In contrast, the Genesis GV70 has lower maintenance costs and better resale value.
Sedans and Compact Cars That Underdeliver on Promises
Compact cars are often seen as affordable. But, many don’t live up to their promise. Consumer Reports reliability shows some sedans and compacts have worst build quality and expensive ownership cost.
The Volkswagen Taos, for example, got a $1,000 price hike for 2025. Yet, it’s on the bad car review list because of transmission and electrical issues. Even with an 8-inch touchscreen, it has vehicles with low safety scores in key areas.
Small Cars With Big Problems
The Volkswagen Taos and Hyundai Tucson are examples of disappointing new models. The Tucson is called a “ticking time bomb” because of engine and transmission problems. Despite some good RepairPal rankings, its worst build quality leads to many repairs.
This makes it one of the vehicles not recommended. In Consumer Reports’ 2024 tests, the Taos was second-worst in reliability, just behind the Pacifica Hybrid.
Economy Models That Cost More in the Long Run
| Vehicle | Reliability Score | Ownership Cost Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Taos | 21/100 | High |
| Hyundai Tucson | 30/100 | High |
These cars show how expensive ownership cost can be a big problem. Owners often regret buying them because of the need for frequent repairs and poor fuel efficiency. The 2025 Taos’s $1,000 price hike didn’t fix its main issues, leading to unexpected costs.
When shopping, it’s wise to think about long-term costs, not just the initial price. This way, you can avoid the bad car review list.
Technology Features That Don’t Justify the Price Tag
Car makers add lots of tech, but some don’t offer good value. Consumer Reports points out cars where fancy features don’t justify the cost. The Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid, for example, gets a low 21/100 reliability score.
Its EV battery, climate control, and infotainment systems have problems. This makes it a clear example of unreliable luxury cars that cost too much.
Luxury car buyers often pay too much for tech that doesn’t work well. The Lamborghini Urus costs $250,000, $100k more than the Porsche Cayenne. But it doesn’t offer a clear reason for the extra cost.
Audi’s E-Tron GT also charges a lot but has worst ev range. The Lucid Air Touring does better by 168 miles. These evs not worth price show a big gap between what’s promised and what’s delivered.
Even safety tech can fail. Some cars that flunked crash tests push fancy driver aids. But these don’t guarantee reliability. Consumer Reports advises to steer clear of certain 2025 suvs with bad ev choices or poor systems.
The Volvo’s 2025 model, despite updates, is on the consumer reports avoid list. It’s because of ongoing tech issues.
Buyers should focus on what works, not just what looks good. Overpriced crossovers and EVs often focus on style over substance. Look at the facts, not just the fancy ads—real-world performance matters more than show.
Performance Issues Behind the Worst New Car Deals 2025
Car makers often focus on horsepower and tech in ads. But, real-world tests show many cars don’t live up to the hype. Cars with worst new car resale values often have problems like slow engines, weak brakes, or broken transmissions. These issues are key reasons why some cars fail to meet expectations in 2025.
Underpowered Engines and Poor Fuel Economy
Some SUVs claim to be great off-road but fall short in basic areas. The Genesis GV80, for example, has 8 inches of ground clearance but only gets 20 MPG in the city. This is far from what you’d expect from a luxury car.
The Hyundai Tucson’s 2.5-liter engine also doesn’t meet EPA estimates, leading to a bad driving experience on long trips. Consumer Reports warns against many new models because their engines don’t perform well at high speeds or when towing.
Handling and Braking Concerns
Family-friendly cars like the Kia Forte often sacrifice comfort for lower prices. The Nissan Kicks has a poor weight distribution, causing it to lean too much during sharp turns. The Chevrolet Trax’s braking distances are longer than average, raising safety concerns.
These problems are reflected in Consumer Reports vehicle scores, which rank these cars low.
Transmission Problems Affecting Drivability
“The Hyundai Tucson’s transmission failures are predictable by year three,” said Mike Winter, a Michigan mechanic. “CVTs in this class degrade faster than advertised.”
Many cars with low J.D. Power scores, like the Genesis GV80, have weak transmissions. The Toyota Corolla’s turbocharged engine is also criticized for its rough shifts in city traffic. These issues make bad used car predictions more likely, as the value of these cars drops after repairs.
Owner Satisfaction: What Buyers Regret Most About These Vehicles
Consumer Reports’ data shows big gaps between what buyers want and what they get. Owners of overpriced 2025 cars often complain about most expensive maintenance and cars with failing transmissions. More than 40% of owners gave worst car brand satisfaction ratings below 2.5/5.
Common Complaints From Recent Owners
- Interior quality: Many owners are unhappy with cars with poor interiors and bad seating comfort cars. Issues like leather peeling and creaking plastics are common.
- Technology struggles: Problems with worst cvt vehicles and cars with bad electronics lead to costly repairs.
- Long-term costs: Most expensive maintenance and frequent transmission failures increase ownership costs.
| Issue | Average Satisfaction Score |
|---|---|
| Transmission reliability | 1.5/5 |
| Electronics functionality | 1.8/5 |
| Interior durability | 2.0/5 |
| Service cost transparency | 1.9/5 |
Dealership Experiences That Compound Problems
Owners have bad experiences with worst dealership experience when dealing with recalls and repairs.
“After three transmission repairs, the service refused to acknowledge the cars with failing transmissions pattern,” said one owner.
High repair costs and delayed parts deliveries make things worse.
Models like certain overpriced 2025 cars have poor quality and bad post-sale support. Consumer Reports data shows average most expensive maintenance costs over $2,500 a year for some SUVs listed here.
Alternative Models Worth Considering Instead
“Choosing vehicles with proven reliability and safety ensures long-term savings over models prone to consumer reports auto fails.” – Consumer Reports
Instead of worst new AWD SUVs, look at the Subaru Forester (98/100 reliability) or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (83/100). These models skip cars that failed crash test and have low-quality interiors.
- Subaru Forester: 98/100 reliability score with standard AWD and 5-star crash ratings.
- Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid: 84/100 reliability, better resale value than least satisfying new cars.
For those on a tight budget, used SUVs under $15k often come with safety tech missing in some cars missing safety features. The 2023 Subaru Forester or Toyota 4Runner are better values than suv with lowest ratings. Check consumer auto guide reviews to steer clear of car brands to avoid.
- Used Subaru Forester: 2.5L engine, 170 hp, under $15k with 80k miles.
- Toyota 4Runner: Reliable off-road option with better resale than worst new AWD SUVs.
Lease deals like the Kia Niro EV ($129/month) or Toyota Venza offer good savings. Use the consumer auto guide to compare prices and avoid overpaying for suv with lowest ratings.
How to Research Properly Before Your Next Vehicle Purchase
Looking for a new car? It’s more than just a test drive. Steer clear of cars with loud cabins and bad infotainment systems by doing your homework. Start with consumer reports test results and read what owners say. This can reveal issues like cars with poor ergonomics or evs that disappoint in everyday use.
Avoiding the worst automotive value means prioritizing data over hype.
Beyond the Test Drive: Critical Research Steps
First, check consumer reports test results for reliability scores (0–100) and owner satisfaction (1–5). Look for patterns: cars that feel cheap often have cars with poor warranty terms. Also, read forums and reviews for complaints about bad customer satisfaction or bad infotainment systems. Find out about evs that disappoint in range, charging, or build quality.
Using Consumer Reports Data Effectively
- Compare consumer reports test results for road performance, comfort, and tech features.
- Avoid models flagged for bad monthly payments due to high depreciation or repair costs.
- Review cars with poor ergonomics or cars with loud cabins in their detailed reviews.
Questions to Ask Before Signing Any Deal
Ask dealers: “Does this model have a history of bad customer satisfaction?” or “Are there known issues like cars with poor warranty coverage?” Use Consumer Reports’ tools to compare bad monthly payments with other options. Make sure the car is a good value by checking long-term costs.
Conclusion: Navigating the Car Market With Consumer Reports’ Insights
Consumer Reports’ 2025 analysis shows that some cars are not worth the money. Models like the Jeep Wrangler and Infiniti QX50 are expensive but don’t perform well. They are pricey without the performance or value expected.
Some cars have many recalls or low resale values, hiding extra costs. On the other hand, better suvs to buy are durable and cost-effective. They offer long-term savings.
Trade policies make smart buying even more important. Buyers should look at used car alternatives or vehicles with good consumer reports ratings. This way, they can avoid models that don’t last.
Consumer Reports’ research helps buyers see through marketing tricks. By looking at total cost, reliability, and resale value, buyers can find good deals. They can choose vehicles that meet their needs and budgets, avoiding cars that fail real-world tests.
FAQ
What vehicles does Consumer Reports consider the worst value for 2025?
Consumer Reports has listed some vehicles as poor value for 2025. The Jeep Wrangler, Ford Edge, and Infiniti QX50 are on this list. They face issues with reliability, high costs, and underwhelming performance.
How does Consumer Reports determine vehicle value?
Consumer Reports looks at several factors to judge vehicle value. They consider the initial price, reliability, road test results, fuel economy, and depreciation. They also take into account real-world owner experiences.
Why can popular vehicles be a bad investment?
Even if a vehicle is popular, it might not be a good investment. This is because its long-term reliability, resale value, and total costs could be low. Marketing can make a vehicle seem appealing, but it’s important to look beyond that.
What should I look for when evaluating the total cost of ownership of a vehicle?
When looking at the total cost of ownership, consider more than just the purchase price. Look at fuel economy, insurance, maintenance, repair costs, and depreciation. These factors add up over time.
Which SUVs have been identified as failing to deliver good value?
SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee are seen as poor value. They have low fuel economy, high costs, and reliability issues. Despite their popularity, these problems make them a bad deal.
What are some common problems owners experience with the Jeep Wrangler?
Jeep Wrangler owners often face reliability issues. Problems include steering, suspension, and electrical system failures. These issues lead to high maintenance costs over time.
Why is the Ford Edge considered a bad deal?
The Ford Edge is seen as a poor value. It depreciates quickly, has mechanical issues like transmission failures, and scores low in owner satisfaction. These factors make it a bad investment.
What hidden costs should buyers be aware of when considering luxury vehicles like the Infiniti QX50?
Luxury vehicles like the Infiniti QX50 have hidden costs. These include rapid depreciation, expensive maintenance, and high insurance premiums. These costs are not always clear at first glance.
How can buyers avoid making costly mistakes when purchasing a small car?
To avoid mistakes with small cars, research their reliability and total costs. Look for known issues that could lead to high expenses. This way, you can avoid the financial burden of owning a small car.
What technology features in modern vehicles have received criticism?
Modern vehicles often have criticized technology features. Issues include complex infotainment systems, unreliable driver assistance, and systems that don’t work as promised. These problems don’t justify the added cost.
What performance issues are commonly found in vehicles on Consumer Reports’ worst list?
Vehicles on the worst list often have performance issues. Problems include underpowered engines, poor fuel economy, and inadequate handling and braking. These issues negatively affect the driving experience.
What common regrets do vehicle owners report with the models on the worst deals list?
Owners of vehicles on the worst list often regret their purchase. They are unhappy with comfort, reliability, performance, and dealership service. These issues lead to frustrating ownership experiences.
What alternatives should buyers consider instead of poorly-rated vehicles?
Instead of poorly-rated vehicles, consider alternatives that are reliable and satisfy owners. For example, the Subaru Forester is a good choice instead of the Jeep Wrangler. The Toyota Venza is a better option than the Ford Edge.
What are some essential steps for researching vehicles effectively before purchase?
To research vehicles effectively, check their reliability and total costs. Use Consumer Reports’ data for scores and ratings. Also, ask specific questions before making a purchase. This will help you make an informed decision.