Compact SUVs are projected to be the vehicle of choice for the majority of US drivers in 2025 as the market normalizes after four years of limited inventory and raised prices. Experts predict a shift in sales trends in the following year, expecting that bigger and more expensive models will take a backseat as consumers’ priorities shift.
Consumer data has been compiled into an analysis of the top five SUVs to avoid buying, according to GOBankingRates, and the information below gives drivers insight into why these models have been rated low.
Experts are predicting shifts in vehicle choices in 2025
Kelley Blue Book, a trusted resource for car values and pricing, says that consumers are looking to spend less on new vehicles, so the United States market is seeing increased compact SUV sales over midsize models or trucks.
In 2024, the sales figures revealed that the compact and subcompact SUV segments seized a larger market share in the US. Normally popular luxury midsize SUV sales dropped, and fewer trucks left the showroom floor as well.
SUVs (sports utility vehicles) appeal to a wide range of customers due to their spaciousness, versatility, and off-road capabilities. With such an expansive range of models to choose from, it’s not always clear which will deliver driver satisfaction and performance, and the information below will give you an idea of what to avoid.
5 SUVs experts advise to avoid buying in 2025
Experts say if you’re shopping for an SUV this year, the models below should be crossed off your list of options.
Volkswagen Taos
According to Consumer Reports, the 2025 VW Taos was rated the second-least reliable car in 2024, with only the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan impressing drivers less. This year’s model is $1,000 more expensive than the previous 2024 version and has had a thorough inside-and-out revamping. It comes with a more potent 174 hp engine and an 8″ touchscreen.
Ford Explorer
RepairPal reports that the costs of repairing and maintaining a 2025 Ford Explorer and the severity and frequency of repairs are comparatively low. However, the Explorer ranked only 19th out of their analysis of 26 midsize SUVs. CarsDirect analyzed incentives data and reported that this SUV is the worst to lease out of all the models they looked at.
Ford has more on its plate than bad reviews. After a billion-dollar lawsuit over its 1L EcoBoost three-cylinder engine just a few years ago, the auto powerhouse is being sued again in a class-action lawsuit over its bigger 2.7L V6 version.
Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L
Jeep’s reputation for reliability has taken a couple of knocks in recent years. Consumer Reports placed Jeep last in its rankings of all 34 vehicle brands surveyed and last again out of 15 mainstream brands (including high-end names). In addition to considering reliability, the criteria included satisfaction, road tests, and safety, and Jeep scored consistently low.
The fuel economy rates for the 2025 Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L (the three-row seat version) are a meager 20 miles and 19 miles per gallon, respectively. Both models are listed on Consumer Reports‘ list of 10 least reliable cars.
Land Rover Discovery
The luxurious 2025 Land Rover Discovery is not a bad option for drivers who do a lot of off-road traveling and is described as a capable all-terrain option. But it’s not drawing great reviews as an urban vehicle.
GOBankingRates spoke to an expert mechanic about the Discovery, and he reported that they are costly to maintain and when repairs need to be made, the parts and labor are expensive.
Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid
Last year’s 2024 Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid didn’t do well under review by Consumer Reports, scoring just 21 out of 100 for reliability. However, the 2025 version of the midsize hybrid SUV has drawn some positive reviews from other trusted motor industry sources, such as Edmunds, MotorTrend, and Car and Driver. Perhaps the issues that Consumer Reports picked up in last year’s model have been ironed out in the fresh one.
Tips for new car buyers
Considering the significant expense of buying a new car, drivers should do their research before purchasing. Here are some tips:
- Set a budget
- Identify your needs
- Compare prices and incentives
- Check safety and reliability ratings
- Investigate financing if you rely on that option
- Test drive the vehicle
- Check if the price can be negotiated
- Check if there are any hidden or additional costs
- Shop at times when dealerships offer specials
- Check the paperwork thoroughly
When you’ve finally purchased your car, here’s a hack to keep its windscreen from freezing that will take just a minute to prepare.