Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, with countless options available in today’s market. While many SUVs offer reliability, comfort, and versatility, some models fall short of expectations in terms of performance, safety, and overall value. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 15 SUVs that are widely regarded as the worst options for buyers.
From subpar handling to questionable reliability, these SUVs have earned a reputation for disappointing drivers and failing to meet expectations. Whether you’re in the market for a family hauler or an off-road adventurer, it’s essential to steer clear of these underwhelming SUVs.
We sourced all reliability info from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.
Fiat 500X
The Fiat 500X has garnered a reputation as one of the worst SUVs to buy due to its lackluster performance and reliability issues. Consumer Reports ranked the Fiat 500X as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, electrical issues, and overall build quality. According to J.D. Power, the 500X received below-average ratings for initial quality and dependability, further highlighting its reliability concerns. Additionally, the Fiat 500X has been criticized for its cramped interior, uncomfortable seating, and outdated infotainment system.
Mitsubishi Outlander
The Mitsubishi Outlander has faced criticism for its subpar build quality, lackluster performance, and dated interior design. Consumer Reports cited the Outlander’s below-average reliability and numerous owner complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions. J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study also gave the Outlander low ratings for overall dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its long-term reliability.
Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass has received widespread criticism for its underwhelming performance, cheap interior materials, and lack of standard safety features. Consumer Reports ranked the Compass among the least reliable SUVs, citing frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions. According to J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study, the Compass received below-average ratings for overall quality and reliability, further highlighting its reliability concerns.
Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke has been panned by critics for its polarizing exterior design, cramped interior, and lackluster performance. Consumer Reports ranked the Juke as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Juke low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its reliability. Its limited cargo space and uncomfortable seating make it a less practical choice for families or long-distance driving.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Land Rover Discovery Sport has faced criticism for its below-average reliability, high ownership costs, and cramped interior. Consumer Reports ranked the Discovery Sport as one of the least reliable luxury SUVs, citing frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions. J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study also gave the Discovery Sport low ratings for overall dependability, further highlighting its reliability concerns. The Discovery Sport’s cramped third-row seating and lackluster cargo space also make it a less practical choice for families or buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable SUV.
Chevrolet Trax
The Chevrolet Trax has been criticized for its underpowered engine, cheap interior materials, and lackluster handling. Consumer Reports ranked the Trax as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Trax low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its reliability. The Trax’s cramped rear seats and limited cargo space make it a less practical choice for families or buyers seeking a spacious and versatile SUV.
Buick Encore
The Buick Encore has faced criticism for its lackluster performance, cramped interior, and outdated technology features. Consumer Reports ranked the Encore as one of the least reliable SUVs, citing frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Encore low ratings for overall quality and dependability. The Encore’s sluggish acceleration and noisy cabin make it a less enjoyable choice for buyers.
Dodge Journey
The Dodge Journey has been criticized for its outdated design, lackluster performance, and subpar reliability. Consumer Reports ranked the Journey as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Journey low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its reliability. The Journey’s cramped third-row seating and lack of modern safety features make it a less appealing choice for families or buyers wanting a spacious and well-equipped SUV.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson has faced criticism for its lackluster performance, noisy cabin, and subpar interior quality. Consumer Reports ranked the Tucson as one of the least reliable SUVs, citing frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Tucson low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further highlighting its reliability concerns. The Tucson’s cramped rear seats and limited cargo space also make it a less practical choice for families or buyers seeking a spacious and versatile SUV.
Jeep Patriot
The Jeep Patriot has been panned by critics for its underpowered engine, cheap interior materials, and lackluster handling. Consumer Reports ranked the Patriot as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Patriot low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its reliability. On top of this, the Patriot’s cramped interior and outdated technology features make it an even less attractive choice for buyers who want a modern and comfortable SUV.
Ford EcoSport
The Ford EcoSport has faced criticism for its cramped interior, underpowered engine options, and lackluster handling. Consumer Reports ranked the EcoSport as one of the least reliable SUVs, citing frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the EcoSport low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further highlighting its reliability concerns. Additionally, the EcoSport’s outdated infotainment system and limited cargo space make it a less competitive choice in the subcompact SUV segment.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan has been criticized for its below-average reliability, high ownership costs, and uninspired driving dynamics. Consumer Reports ranked the Tiguan as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Tiguan low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its reliability. Additionally, the Tiguan’s cramped third-row seating and lackluster fuel economy make it a less appealing choice for families or buyers seeking a practical and efficient SUV.
Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee has faced criticism for its controversial styling, subpar reliability, and lackluster performance. Consumer Reports ranked the Cherokee as one of the least reliable SUVs, citing frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Cherokee low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further highlighting its reliability concerns. Additionally, the Cherokee’s cramped rear seats and limited cargo space make it a less practical choice for families or buyers seeking a spacious and versatile SUV.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage has been criticized for its lackluster performance, noisy cabin, and subpar interior quality. Consumer Reports ranked the Sportage as one of the least reliable SUVs, with frequent complaints about transmission problems, engine issues, and overall build quality. J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study also gave the Sportage low ratings for overall quality and dependability, further reinforcing concerns about its reliability. Additionally, the Sportage’s cramped rear seats and limited cargo space make it a less practical choice for families or buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped SUV.
