As the auto industry begins to normalize after four turbulent years of high prices and low inventory, SUVs are positioning themselves as the most desirable vehicle choice for U.S. drivers. And while recent trends have seen companies getting bigger and more expensive, some experts predict changes by 2025.
According to Kelley Blue Book, consumers’ yearning to spend less has seen compact SUVs outsell large trucks and midsize SUVs. In terms of sales in 2024, the compact and subcompact segments have elevated their market share. Meanwhile, transactions of midsize SUVs and large pickups from popular and luxury brands have declined.
Known for their versatility, roominess and off-road capability, SUVs appeal to a wide range of customers. However, with so many sport utility cars to choose from, not all of them fit the bill. Below, we’ll share a list of 5 SUVs you should avoid buying in 2025.
Volkswagen Taos
When ranking the cars with the least reliability for 2024, Consumer Reports placed the Volkswagen Taos at the bottom. It’s worth noting that the 2025 model has been refreshed inside and out, and comes equipped with a standard 8-inch tactical display. It also contains a more powerful 174 hp engine and costs $1,000 more than the 2024 model. We’ll have to see if this will be enough to convince U.S. drivers.
Ford Explorer
Although the cost of repairs and maintenance is claimed to be average, and the severity and frequency of repairs low, RepairPal ranked the Ford explorer 19th out of 26 midsize SUV models. On the other hand, according to CarsDirect’s analysis of incentive data, the 2025 Explorer is one of the SUV models you should avoid buying in 2025.
Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Jeep’s reliability and reputation have taken a hit over the years. According to Consumer Reports, Jeep ranked 34th among 34 car brands and 15th among the 15 most popular car brands. With fuel economy of just 20 and 19 miles per gallon, respectively, the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L made Consumer Reports’ list of the 10 least reliable vehicles. They should also be considered last resorts.
Discovery Land Rover
Luxurious inside and designed as an SUV, Land Rover’s Discovery is a quite capable vehicle. However, those who want a Land Rover with admirable highway and city road performance should look elsewhere. In conversation with GObankingRates, Chris Pyle, a virtual mechanic who works at JustAnswer, had this to say, “Discovery’s are expensive to maintain, just doing general maintenance, and when they fail, parts and labor are much more expensive.”
Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid
With a Consumer Reports reliability score of just 21 out of 100, the hybrid SUV has garnered significant criticism. Concerns about this vehicle are placed on the battery and charging for this type of car, in addition to the electric accessories and climate control system. Added to this are problems with the overall electronics of the vehicle. Also, industry heavyweights such as Edmunds, MotorTrend, Car and Driver, among others, point out that the brand is expected to invest more in improvements for this vehicle and that by 2025, they will have fixed all these problems.
Remember that once you have finished reading this article, you can always keep up to date on other motor-related news by visiting the specialized section of this newspaper.
