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What are America’s Most Disappointing Cars in 2024?
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Cars are such a fundamental part of American life, that certain brands or models can attract abject tribalism from their fans and blind judgment from critics.
Meanwhile, there are some car owners who simply do not jive well with their auto of choice, and would not be hitching their wagon to the brand any time soon.
We rank the 10 most disappointing cars to own, based on the results from an annual survey by Consumer Reports which asked 330,000 members whether they would buy or lease their same vehicle again.
Ranked: The Least Satisfying Cars to Own in the U.S.
The Infiniti QX50 is the least satisfying car to own, according to those polled at Consumer Reports. An overwhelming three quarters polled said they would not buy or lease their car again.
The QX50 is Infiniti’s compact crossover offering, currently in its second generation (introduced in 2019). Major criticisms from auto reviewers revolve around the car’s fuel economy and loud engine, especially compared to rival cars from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
“The QX50’s attractive styling and interior may entice luxury shoppers, but the powertrain’s shortcomings mean it can’t quite match the upscale experience offered by numerous rivals.” — Car and Driver Magazine
For a car priced between $42,000–$60,000, these fundamental flaws explain why most owners would not want to buy again.
| Rank | Brand | Model | % of Buyers Who Wouldn't Buy Again |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Infiniti | QX50 | 75% |
| 2 | Volkswagen | Taos | 62% |
| 3 | Nissan | Sentra | 61% |
| 4 | Kia | Sorento Hybrid | 58% |
| 5 | Nissan | Kicks | 56% |
| 6 | Kia | Seltos | 55% |
| 7 | Mercedes-Benz | C-Class | 54% |
| 8 | Volkswagen | Jetta | 53% |
| 9 | Kia | Forte | 53% |
| 10 | Nissan | Altima | 52% |
Note: Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury vehicle division.
At second place, more than 60% of respondents said they would pass on purchasing the Volkswagen Taos if given the chance. While the 2024 model is reasonably reviewed, previous models appear to be mired with engine issues, including stalling and acceleration lag.
Between August 2021 and March 2023, a total of six recalls were issued for the Taos.
Volkswagen has another car on the disappointment list (the Jetta, ranked 8th), but Nissan is underperforming Consumer Reports’ members the most. More than 50% of the respondents would not buy or lease either the Sentra, the Kicks, or the Altima again.
Interestingly there isn’t a noticeable correlation between price and displeasure for survey respondents. The Infiniti QX50 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (ranked 7th) are the only two cars on the list priced above $40,000. The other range between $20,000 (Kia Forte) and $39,000 (Kia Sorento Hybrid).
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