Consumer Reports is a vital site for autobuyers seeking car and truck-buying advice. CR’s “Best Of” is out, but their “Worst Of” is equally essential for anyone shopping for a new car, truck or SUV.
Here is their list of 5 models to avoid in 2024, and my take on each brand.
Rivian
Rivian was rightly seen as a welcome, innovative addition to the world of electric vehicles upon launch in 2009. However, some of their wheels to me seemed like concept cars that never progressed, especially when viewed from the front.
Rivian currently has just two models available, the R1S and the R1T. CR reports both models perform well but have low reliability, and thus deserve a place on the “5 worst” list. The company’s getting clobbered, too. Their stock tanked this year, and hit an all-time low this morning.
GMC
GMC doesn’t have a single model with good ratings, according to CR, but their Sierra 1500 in particular annoys owners.
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It is, of course, a hunky, intimidating and gorgeous vehicle. The 2023 model I tested had a galvanized grill with two mighty recovery hooks up front, power running boards and steel bumpers that look like they could move a rhinoceros if necessary. It’s also got a winch, additional skid plates, and beefier tires.
But those surveyed reported that the truck is way too noisy, with creaks, pops and rattles. Reliability is also an issue.
Jaguar F-Pace
Jaguar’s F-Type is a favorite among enthusiasts of the brand, including me. But their F-Pace, according to CR surveys, makes “too many noises,” and those surveyed reported that in one case, it took weeks to get an appointment with a service technician, and even after a thorough going-over, they failed to fix the noise problems.
My take? I think anything with the Jaguar badge on it should denote style, class, danger and 5-star living. The F-Pace neither excited nor repelled during a week’s drive.
Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The inside is the Range Rover Sport’s best side, with on-point cabin materials, a serenely quiet ride, comfortable seats and lots of cargo space. Leather upholstery and heated seats come standard.
Land Rover doesn’t have one vehicle on CR’s “Best” list, which isn’t necessarily terrible. The Range Rover Sport is toast, however. They call it the second worst brand overall on the new market for 2024 and a must to avoid.
Jeep
Jeep has its devoted, ferocious fans, especially among the Wrangler set. Count me in, too.
Though I found their 2023 Grand Cherokee a splendid family vehicle, easily capable of hauling a crew on a weekend getaway or handing a longer road trip in comfort and style, it is more expensive than rivals in its class and I found its power feeble.
Consumer Reports says the Jeep Grand Cherokee has particularly low reliability.
Conclusion – you may have great luck with any of the above, and I hope you do. Comments welcome, pro or con. JM
