Even though people tend to consider a great number of factors when deciding on buying either a new or used car, some still prefer to rely on good old fashion road tests.
With that in mind, Consumer Reports put together a list of cars that you should avoid, unless you’d like to experience a strong case of buyer’s remorse that is.
All these nameplates were dubbed as being the lowest rated vehicles during road tests for 2018, although it’s possible not everybody will agree with these findings
Jeep Compass – Small SUV
If you’re in the market for a small, trendy and modern SUV, the 2018 Jeep Compass should, in theory tick all those boxes. And yet, CR says that you pretty much can’t do worse in this class than the Compass. It’s a good thing this is one of the most crowded automotive segments, leaving you spoiled for choice.
Jeep Wrangler – Midsize SUV
Need more size than you get in a compact crossover? Try something midsize, like the old Jeep Wrangler (not the redesigned one). Or better yet, don’t try it – is what CR would have you do. They say that it was by far the lowest rated midsize SUV they tested.
Cadillac Escalade – Luxury Large SUV
More of the same for the hip hop artist’s car of choice, the Cadillac Escalade. It too was at the very bottom of CR’s rankings with regards to its particular segment. During one of their reviews, the Escalade was bombarded for not being as comfortable as its full-size rivals, as well as for its cramped third row, poor reliability and more. Apparently, a Chevy Suburban might be the wiser choice.
Lexus IS300 – Luxury Compact Car
You know what? This one we sort of get. It’s not because the IS is a bad car, but more to do with how it’s not as comfortable, efficient, modern or as dynamic as its peers. That list would include the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Jaguar XE, among others.
Toyota Tacoma – Compact Pickup
During their review of the 2018 Toyota Tacoma, CR deemed it to be, and we quote, “primitive”. They also said that it had a stiff ride, poor handling, loud cabin and an awkwardly low driving position. Because of those reasons, the Tacoma became their lowest rated compact pickup.
Fiat 500L – Compact Car
A stiff ride, flat seats, upright driving position and a poor score in the IIHS small-overlap frontal test drove the Fiat 500L to the very bottom of CR’s rankings as far as this segment is concerned. They even went as far as to call it “undeveloped.”
Nissan Altima – Midsize Car
This is a tricky one. In their review of the Altima, CR pretty much mentions both positives as well as negatives, and yet it’s their lowest rated car for this segment. Reasons for its poor score include the overly light steering, fussy infotainment system and a CVT that “dilutes the driving experience in more demanding situations”.