Every year it’s good to learn which brands make the best cars, the cream of the crop if you will, so you have a better idea of what to shop for. You can also reasonably discern which makes or models have improved from previous years, and consider which used models might be worth shopping for in a year or so – given that they get great scores. Some of these brands include Subaru, BMW, Porsche, Honda, Toyota, Lexus and Lincoln. But it’s also good to know the opposite end of the spectrum: which cars were the worst of the worst.
By reviewing the worst cars on the market, you know which makes and models to stay away from, and ultimately which brands might be on the decline year over year, which is definitely great to know if you already own a vehicle from that brand. You might be surprised to know some of the brands that make the worst vehicles, according to Consumer Reports. Interestingly, some of these brands also sell EV models that you should probably avoid, for various reasons.
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1. Jeep
Jeep Wrangler climbing rocks outdoors with open cab. – Jeep
Ranked last on Consumer Reports’ “Brands That Make the Best Cars” list, 2026 Jeep models are among the least recommended by auto experts. With Consumer Reports citing problems with poor fuel economy, lots of cabin wind noise and uncomfortable interiors, they’re not as driver- and passenger-friendly as one might expect. But what really brings them down is that the 2026 Jeep models have low user reliability scores. This is a collective note for all models, but worth noting if you’re considering getting one.
Of course, that doesn’t mean they aren’t popular. Jeeps are still some of the best selling vehicles on the market today. It is a company well known for its rugged and off-grid models such as the Wrangler and Compass. Those looking for a more classic ride can opt for the Wagoneer and Grand Cherokee models. However, don’t expect to be as ultra-comfortable as when riding competing models according to CR. It’s probably a good time to note that Jeep is also one of the last in CR owner satisfaction ratings.
2. Land Rover
Range Rover Evoque from the side parked outside the Land Rover. – Land Rover
Land Rover earns a spot on the list, but it may seem strange at first. That’s because the brand is known for its luxury vehicles, and Consumer Reports praises its comfortable and spacious interiors, powerful engines and executive styling that impresses. The problem, it seems, is that the brand has also long been known for frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs, and the 2026 models do nothing to alleviate those concerns.
Land Rovers are considered more expensive to maintain and repair because they rely on labor and specialized parts. In addition, Consumer Affairs reviews list common problems like engine failures or transmission problems, which, when it comes to vehicle problems, are some of the more expensive concerns to treat on both new and used vehicles. This definitely lowers the perceived value of used Land Rovers – no one wants to buy a like-new vehicle that has serious engine problems.
3. GMC
2026 GMC Terrain parked outdoors next to a barn. – GMC
Consumer Reports praises GMC’s lineup of SUVs and trucks, but also points out that they’re basically restyled versions of Chevrolet models with slightly different badges and upgrades. Then again, Chevrolet scored slightly higher on the list, while GMC gets hit with its “below average” reliability ratings. Another GM brand, Buick, ranks even higher, which makes GMC’s ranking all the more unfortunate. GM is also one of the best-selling automakers, although Chevy was responsible for much of that performance.
However, it probably won’t take the wind out of GMC’s sails. The GMC Sierra is one of the best-selling American trucks for 2026, and that’s despite the fact that the brand is consistently included in the top five automakers. For 2026, the brand’s crossovers appear to be the biggest reliability offenders, with the Terrain, Acadia and Canyon receiving below-average scores. Despite the GMC’s lower scores, it has decent owner satisfaction ratings. It all comes down to whether or not the 2026’s features are ideal for your family and lifestyle. GMC only has a few exclusive Consumer Affairs reviews, but they’re less than stellar.
4. Dodge
Dodge Charger BHP in red, parked outside the retro restaurant, indicator light off. – Dodge
One brand you might be surprised to see lower on the list is Dodge. Known for its muscular and powerful cars like the Charger and Challenger in recent years, the brand has absorbed that energy into its cars and SUVs like the Durango.
As to why it didn’t earn a higher position, Consumer Reports cites the brand’s consistently low reliability scores, pointing to poor performance in crash and road tests and past user satisfaction ratings. The Dodge Hornet’s scores are particularly low, dragging the brand down overall, but there’s not really much else to note in terms of positive scores.
In particular, the Dodge Durango ended 2025 with one of its best quarters in the previous year. It could signal a disconnect between what Consumer Reports says is a poor value vehicle — which aggregates user satisfaction ratings — and what people are willing to spend money on. We’ll have to wait until this year’s sales numbers are tallied to see if the Durango continues to sell well and makes it to the top-selling cars of the year along with Dodge’s additional offerings.
5. Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo Stelvio in red driven on a road with mountains behind. – Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo seems to follow the same pattern as the other low-scoring brands on the list. Its vehicles are nimble, powerful and fun to drive, according to CR, but they also have lower reliability ratings, making them a tough recommendation for most.
Alfa Romeo is the quintessential Italian luxury car manufacturer based in Europe. For this reason, the company uses “unusual details” that manifest themselves in functions and controls that are not as convenient for modern drivers. Like a B-pillar on the Giulia that holds in the way — the vertical side support pillar that protects the center of the cabin.
Tonale and Giulia have lower reliability and user satisfaction scores from the brand. On the other hand, about 95% of Kelley Blue Book reviewers recommend the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Many of these reviewers cite the vehicle’s love for its unique driving feel, unique styling, and fun driving experience. That said, there are still plenty of lower scores that question and comment on the brand’s reliability.
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