SUVs to Avoid Buying in 2025: Key Insights and Warnings for Car Buyers
As the automotive industry stabilizes after years of price hikes and limited inventory, SUVs remain the dominant choice for U.S. drivers. While many SUVs are known for their versatility, off-road capabilities, and spaciousness, not all are created equal. With the rise of compact and budget-friendly models, it’s important to be mindful of certain vehicles that may fall short in reliability, performance, or value. Here’s a detailed look at seven SUVs you may want to avoid buying in 2025.
1. Volkswagen Taos
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos has received mixed reviews despite some upgrades, including a new 8-inch touchscreen and a more powerful 174-hp engine. However, Consumer Reports (CR) placed the 2024 model Taos among the least reliable cars. The 2025 model might be an improvement, but its long-standing reliability issues and its position as one of the least reliable cars suggest it may not be worth the investment. Drivers should consider whether these changes will be enough to change the vehicle’s reputation.
2. Ford Explorer
While the Ford Explorer ranks moderately in terms of repair and maintenance costs, it doesn’t perform as well in terms of reliability. RepairPal places it 19th out of 26 midsize SUV models, signaling potential long-term issues. CarsDirect has also dubbed the Explorer the worst SUV for leasing, based on incentives data. If you’re looking for a reliable and financially sound SUV, the Explorer might not be the best option for 2025.
3. Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L
Despite Jeep’s rugged reputation, the Grand Cherokee and its larger variant, the Grand Cherokee L, have faced increasing reliability concerns. Consumer Reports ranks Jeep poorly across the board, including the Grand Cherokee, which suffers from low fuel efficiency (20 mpg for the standard model and 19 mpg for the L version). Additionally, the Grand Cherokee is part of CR’s list of least reliable vehicles. If you’re seeking an SUV that can stand the test of time, these models should be low on your list.
4. Land Rover Discovery
The Land Rover Discovery is known for its luxurious interior and off-road capabilities, but it’s not the best choice for those primarily seeking a reliable daily driver. While it excels in rugged terrains, it’s expensive to maintain, particularly when it comes to general maintenance and repair costs. As noted by Chris Pyle, a full-time virtual mechanic, the high price for parts and labor can be a major deterrent. For city driving or highway commutes, you may want to explore other options that are more budget-friendly and easier to maintain.
5. Volvo XC90
The 2024 Volvo XC90, despite receiving positive reviews from major automotive publications, earned a low reliability score from Consumer Reports due to issues with its EV battery, electrical systems, and climate control features. While Volvo’s mid-size hybrid SUV has gained attention for its design and performance, its reliability score leaves much to be desired. Whether the 2025 model improves upon these issues remains to be seen, but buyers may want to be cautious until Volvo addresses these concerns.
6. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a classic off-road vehicle, but it suffers from several significant reliability issues. According to CR’s analysis, no Jeep model received a predicted reliability score above 45 out of 100. The Wrangler in particular faces common problems with its steering and suspension systems, as well as issues with the electric system, engine, and drivetrain. While the Wrangler is a popular choice for off-roading enthusiasts, its tendency to break down on regular roads makes it a risky investment for those seeking a dependable everyday vehicle.
7. Hyundai Tucson
Despite receiving an above-average reliability rating from RepairPal, the Hyundai Tucson has been called a “ticking time bomb” by Mike Winter, a repair shop owner, due to frequent engine and transmission failures. Although the 2024 Tucson has performed better than older models, particularly the 2011, 2012, and 2015-2017 versions, the vehicle’s long-term reliability is still questionable. Buyers should be cautious when considering this SUV, especially if they are looking for a model that can deliver both short-term reliability and longevity.
Final Thoughts
As the automotive landscape shifts in 2025, many drivers are opting for compact and budget-friendly SUVs over larger, pricier models. With so many options on the market, it’s essential to carefully evaluate the reliability and performance of any vehicle before making a purchase. The seven SUVs listed above have shown signs of being less reliable or costlier to maintain than other models, making them less favorable choices for 2025. If you’re in the market for an SUV, it may be wise to explore alternative options that offer greater peace of mind, better fuel efficiency, and long-term value.
