The Unceremonious Downfall: 15 Once-Sought-After SUVs That Lost Their Way

gray Jeep SUV parked on road — Photo by Travis Essinger on Unsplash

The automotive world, much like a high-stakes poker game, is a brutal arena where reputations are built on a foundation of precision engineering, shrewd marketing, and a healthy dose of good fortune. SUVs, once the undisputed kings of the road for families and adventurers alike, have felt the full force of this merciless competition. It’s a segment where even the mightiest can falter, and a single misstep can send a once-sought-after model tumbling from its lofty perch, leaving behind a trail of disillusioned owners and scratched reputations.

We’ve seen it time and again: a new model bursts onto the scene with all the fanfare of a rock concert, promising unparalleled performance, groundbreaking design, and bulletproof reliability. Yet, the road to lasting success is paved with more than just good intentions. It demands consistent quality, a keen understanding of evolving consumer tastes, and the agility to adapt to ever-changing technological landscapes. Fail on any of these fronts, and even a storied nameplate can find itself relegated to the automotive history books for all the wrong reasons.

So, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a candid, no-holds-barred journey through the annals of SUV history. We’re not just talking about minor hiccups; we’re talking about the significant misfires, the genuine head-scratchers, and the models that, despite their initial promise or the weight of their badges, utterly lost their way. Here are the first seven contenders in our list of once-celebrated SUVs that ended up driving straight into the automotive twilight zone.

1. **Pontiac Aztek**Ah, the Pontiac Aztek. Where do we even begin? It’s often cited as the poster child for design missteps in the automotive industry, a vehicle so polarizing it practically arrived with its own warning label. Launched with grand ambitions to capture the hearts and wallets of younger, active buyers, the Aztek instead became a lightning rod for criticism, largely due to its… shall we say, ‘unconventional’ appearance. It was a bold statement, certainly, but one that left most scratching their heads rather than reaching for their checkbooks.

From its awkward proportions to its oddly placed plastic cladding, the Aztek seemed to defy every aesthetic convention, sparking widespread criticism the moment it rolled off the production line. General Motors, in their hopeful foresight, envisioned a versatile crossover that could tackle suburban commutes and weekend camping trips with equal aplomb, offering innovative features like a built-in tent and a removable cooler. These unique selling points, however, were tragically overshadowed by a design that many simply couldn’t get past, proving that even the most practical features can’t save a car from a visual identity crisis.

Ultimately, the numbers told a stark story. Over its five-year production run, the Aztek managed to sell only 119,692 units, a figure that fell significantly short of GM’s optimistic expectations. Its fate serves as a rather brutal lesson that in the competitive world of SUVs, first impressions truly are everything. While some might argue it was simply ahead of its time, pioneering the crossover segment, its notorious design has forever cemented its place as one of the most infamously unloved vehicles ever conceived.

Car Model Information: 2004 Pontiac Aztek 4dr All Purpose FWD
Name: Pontiac Aztek
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: July 2000 – December 2004
Assembly: Ramos Arizpe
Designer: Tom Peters (chief designer: 1997)
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: GM U platform
Related: Buick Rendezvous
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Engine: General Motors 60° V6 engine#LA1,V6
Transmission: GM 4T65-E transmission,Automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 108.3 in (2,751 mm)
Length: 182.1 in (4,625 mm)
Width: 73.7 in (1,872 mm)
Height: 66.7 in (1,694 mm)
Weight: 3,779–4,043 lb (1,714–1,834 kg)
Predecessor: Pontiac Sunrunner
Successor: Pontiac Torrent
ModelYears: 2001–2005
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from October 2013, Articles with short description
Summary: The Pontiac Aztek is a mid-size crossover SUV marketed by General Motors introduced in 2000 for the model years 2001 through 2005. As a four-door crossover with front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, the Aztek featured a four-speed automatic transmission with a V6 engine. Marketed by Pontiac as a “sport recreational vehicle,” the Aztek used a shortened platform shared with GM’s minivans (e.g., the Pontiac Montana) featuring 94 cubic feet of cargo room with its rear seats removed. The design employed conventional rear outswing doors rather than sliding doors, and a split rear tailgate, the lower section formed with seat indentations and cupholders. Other features included a front center console that doubled as a removable cooler, optional rear stereo controls in the cargo area, optional sliding cargo floor with grocery compartments, and optional camping package with an attachable tent and air mattress.

Get more information about: Pontiac Aztek

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Brand: Pontiac Model: Aztek
Price: $995 Mileage: 0 mi.

2. **Mazda Navajo**In the early ’90s, when the SUV craze was just beginning to simmer, Mazda decided to throw its hat into the ring with the Navajo. It was an earnest attempt by a brand typically known for its nimble sports cars and practical sedans to carve out a slice of the burgeoning utility vehicle market. However, Mazda’s foray into the rugged world of SUVs didn’t quite pan out as planned, becoming a classic case of good intentions meeting an unforgiving market.

The Navajo, essentially a rebadged two-door Ford Explorer, suffered from a crucial identity crisis and a glaring lack of options. It arrived with limited configuration choices, severely hamstringing its appeal in a segment where buyers increasingly craved versatility and customization. Mazda, perhaps inexperienced in the nuanced art of marketing these larger, more robust vehicles, struggled to articulate a compelling reason for customers to choose a Navajo over its more established, and often better-equipped, rivals.

The result was predictable, if unfortunate. Over its brief three-year production span, fewer than 45,000 units found homes, making it one of the shortest-lived SUV models of that era. The Navajo’s quick departure highlights a key truth in the automotive world: simply slapping your badge on someone else’s car isn’t always a recipe for success, especially when you fail to differentiate it or understand the specific demands of a new market segment. It was a lesson learned the hard way for Mazda, and the Navajo quickly faded into obscurity.

3. **Subaru Tribeca**Subaru, a brand synonymous with rugged dependability, all-wheel-drive prowess, and an almost cult-like following, decided in the mid-2000s that it needed a larger, three-row family SUV to compete with the big boys. Enter the Tribeca, a vehicle that, despite its noble intentions, never quite found its stride. It was an ambitious stretch for Subaru, but one that ultimately proved to be a bit of a misjudgment on the design and engineering front.

The Tribeca’s journey began with an ‘awkward design,’ particularly its polarizing ‘baja snout’ front fascia, which was quickly revised after initial critical backlash. But beyond the aesthetics, its problems ran deeper. The performance was, to put it mildly, ‘mediocre.’ In an era when competitors were offering more potent and refined powertrains, the Tribeca’s engine felt perpetually ‘underpowered,’ struggling to motivate its substantial mass with any real conviction. This was hardly the thrilling driving experience buyers expected from a family hauler.

Adding insult to injury, its ‘less-than-stellar fuel efficiency’ further hampered its appeal. In a market increasingly conscious of rising fuel costs and environmental concerns, a thirsty, underperforming SUV was a tough sell. These combined factors inevitably led to ‘lackluster sales’ and, eventually, its unceremonious discontinuation. The Tribeca stands as a testament to the fact that even a brand with Subaru’s sterling reputation can stumble when it tries to stretch too far from its core identity, failing to deliver the performance and efficiency that modern families demand.

Car Model Information: 2008 Subaru Tribeca
Name: Subaru Tribeca (WX)
Aka: Subaru B9 Tribeca (2006–2007)
Manufacturer: Subaru
Production: 2005–2014
ModelYears: 2006–2014
Assembly: Lafayette, Indiana
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel drive layout
Engine: List of Subaru engines#Six Cylinder,flat-six engine
Transmission: automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 108.2 in
Abbr: on
Length: {{convert,189.8,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Width: 73.9 in
Height: {{convert,66.5,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Weight: 4245 lb
Disp: flip
Successor: Subaru Exiga
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles needing additional references, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Subaru Tribeca is a mid-size crossover SUV that was made from 2005 to 2014. Released in some markets, including Canada, as the Subaru B9 Tribeca, the car derives its name from the Tribeca neighborhood of New York City. Built on the Subaru Legacy platform and sold in five- and seven-seat configurations, the Tribeca was intended to be sold alongside a slightly revised version known as the Saab 9-6X. Saab, at the time a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), abandoned the 9-6X program just prior to its release subsequent to GM’s 2005 divestiture of its 20 percent stake in FHI. Inspired by the B9X concept car, the Tribeca’s original design was criticized at launch and subsequently revised in 2007 for the 2008 model year, and the model name was shortened to simply Tribeca in all markets. North American markets received the Tribeca in 2005 for the 2006 model year, and it was introduced to Australasia and Europe in late 2006. In addition to these markets, the Tribeca was also sold in South America, South Africa, China, the Middle East, and parts of Southeast Asia. It was not sold in Japan.

Get more information about: Subaru Tribeca

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Brand: Subaru Model: Tribeca
Price: $5,995 Mileage: 131,287 mi.

4. **Jeep Compass (2023 Model)**Jeep. The name conjures images of unyielding off-road capability, legendary ruggedness, and a spirit of adventure. So, when a model bearing the iconic seven-slot grille finds itself in a reliability pickle, it’s not just a disappointment; it’s practically sacrilege. Unfortunately, the Jeep Compass, particularly its 2023 iteration, has had a decidedly ‘rocky reputation regarding reliability,’ casting a long shadow over its adventurous aspirations.

According to the unimpeachable arbiters of automotive dependability, Consumer Reports, the 2023 Compass received a dismal ‘predicted reliability rating of just 2 out of 5.’ This isn’t just a number; it’s a flashing red light for anyone considering putting their hard-earned cash down. Such a low score, derived from the brand’s historical performance and the persistent issues reported in previous models, signals a strong likelihood of ‘potential issues for prospective buyers’ – problems that could range from minor annoyances to significant, wallet-draining headaches.

For a brand that prides itself on go-anywhere, do-anything capability, consistent unreliability is a fatal flaw. It fundamentally undermines the trust that buyers place in the Jeep badge, suggesting that this particular Compass might get you to the trailhead, but there’s a worrying chance it won’t get you back. The 2023 Compass, therefore, serves as a stark reminder that even the most iconic brands must tirelessly uphold their commitment to quality, or risk seeing their adventurous spirit tarnished by mechanical woes.

Car Model Information: 2024 Jeep Compass Latitude
Name: Jeep Compass
Caption: 2019 Jeep Compass
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: 2006–present
ModelYears: 2007–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description
Summary: The Jeep Compass is a compact crossover SUV, introduced in 2006 for the 2007 model year. The first generation Compass and Patriot, its rebadged variant, were among Jeep’s first crossover SUVs. The second-generation Compass debuted in September 2016 in Brazil and at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in November 2016, sharing a modified platform with the Renegade. It is positioned between the smaller Renegade and the larger Cherokee globally or the Commander in South America. The third-generation Compass debuted in May 2025, built on the STLA Medium by Stellantis, shared with other PSA Groupe vehicles.

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Brand: Jeep Model: Compass
Price: $19,861 Mileage: 53,969 mi.

5. **Nissan Rogue**Now, the Nissan Rogue presents an interesting conundrum. It’s unequivocally ‘one of Nissan’s top-selling models,’ a staple on suburban driveways across the country. By all accounts, it should be a roaring success story, a testament to Nissan’s ability to tap into the compact SUV market. However, dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that popularity doesn’t always equate to universal adoration, especially when the driving experience leaves a significant amount to be desired.

The Rogue has faced persistent ‘criticisms for underwhelming power and lack of agility on the road.’ For drivers who appreciate a bit of zest in their daily commute or a responsive feel when navigating tight corners, the Rogue often falls short. Its powertrain, while perfectly adequate for mundane tasks, simply doesn’t inspire, leaving many to wonder if Nissan prioritized efficiency and practicality at the expense of any genuine driving engagement. It’s the automotive equivalent of a perfectly fine, but utterly forgettable, cup of coffee.

These ‘performance issues have left some drivers wanting more from this compact SUV.’ While it nails the brief for spaciousness and family-friendly features, the absence of any discernible driving excitement means it struggles to truly connect with enthusiasts or those who spend a significant amount of time behind the wheel. The Rogue’s story isn’t one of outright failure, but rather a subtle decline in its ‘status’ as a truly desirable vehicle, proving that sometimes, being good enough isn’t quite good enough to hold a commanding reputation in the long run.

Car Model Information: 2021 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Nissan Rogue
Caption: 2023 Nissan Rogue SV (US)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Aka: Nissan X-Trail
Production: 2007–present
ModelYears: 2008–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Unbulleted list
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles lacking reliable references, Articles lacking reliable references from November 2017, Articles with short description
Summary: The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Nissan. It made its debut in October 2007 for the 2008 model year. Beginning in 2013 for the 2014 model year, the model has been merged with the X-Trail sold outside the North American market, making them identical. As of 2023, the Rogue was manufactured at the Nissan Smyrna Assembly Plant in Tennessee, United States and at the Nissan Motor Kyushu plant in Kanda, Fukuoka, Japan. Between August 2014 and March 2020, it was also built at the Renault Samsung Motors plant in Busan, South Korea under contract.

Get more information about: Nissan Rogue

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Brand: Nissan Model: Rogue
Price: $20,699 Mileage: 60,669 mi.

6. **Cadillac XT4**Cadillac, America’s luxury standard-bearer, has been on a transformative journey, keenly aware of the seismic shifts occurring in the automotive landscape. The Cadillac XT4 was a critical part of that effort, a compact luxury SUV designed to bring new, younger buyers into the fold. It ‘certainly touted premium features,’ aiming to blend Cadillac’s signature refinement with the practicality demanded by modern families. Yet, after a relatively brief seven-year run, General Motors decided to discontinue the XT4, redirecting its considerable resources towards the burgeoning electric vehicle revolution.

While the official narrative focuses on GM’s strategic ‘shift toward electrification,’ the XT4’s departure from the lineup ‘possibly indicating that it didn’t meet all expectations during its run’ is an intriguing undercurrent. In the fiercely competitive luxury compact SUV segment, merely being good isn’t enough; you need to be exceptional, to stand out with a compelling combination of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology. The XT4, despite its admirable qualities and an attempt to modernize Cadillac’s image, perhaps didn’t quite capture the imagination or market share that GM had hoped for.

Its cessation signals not just a change in corporate direction, but perhaps a quiet acknowledgment that the XT4, while a valiant effort, wasn’t quite the home run Cadillac needed to dominate its segment. In the race to an all-electric future, hard choices must be made, and for the XT4, the checkered flag waved a little earlier than anticipated, making way for the electrified stablemates that GM believes will truly define the brand’s next chapter.

Car Model Information: 2023 Cadillac XT4 AWD Sport
Name: Cadillac XT4
Caption: Cadillac XT4
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2018–present
ModelYears: 2019–present (China),2019–2025 (North America)
Assembly: Kansas City, Kansas
Designer: Therese Pinazzo (exterior)
Class: Subcompact luxury crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Platform: GM Epsilon platform#E2XX
Related: Buick Envision
Engine: ubl
Transmission: GM 9T50 transmission
Wheelbase: 109.4 in
Abbr: on (FWD, est.)
Length: 181.1 in
Width: 74.1 in
Height: 64.1 in
Weight: 3660 lb
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with dead external links from August 2025, Articles with permanently dead external links
Summary: The Cadillac XT4 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors since the 2019 model year under the luxury Cadillac marque.

Get more information about: Cadillac XT4

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Brand: Cadillac Model: XT4
Price: $27,497 Mileage: 49,941 mi.

“2020 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro (Netherlands) front view” by Dennis Elzinga is licensed under CC BY 2.0

7. **Volkswagen ID.4**Volkswagen’s entry into the all-electric SUV market with the ID.4 was heralded as a pivotal moment, a clear statement of intent from a brand with global ambitions for electrification. The ID.4 ‘aimed to boost the brand’s presence in the U.S. market,’ representing a massive strategic investment and a bold bet on the future. On paper, it had all the ingredients: a spacious interior, respectable range, and a commitment to sustainable mobility. However, the reality of its launch and subsequent performance has been a more complicated, and at times, frustrating story.

Despite the significant buzz, the ID.4 has, unfortunately, ‘underperformed’ against Volkswagen’s ambitious targets. Initial enthusiasm has been tempered by a series of ‘production issues further denting sales,’ creating a frustrating bottleneck that prevented eager buyers from getting their hands on the vehicle. In a fast-moving EV market, where perception and immediate availability are crucial, these early stumbles proved costly, allowing competitors to gain a foothold while VW ironed out its manufacturing kinks.

The context explicitly states that ‘despite significant investments, the ID.4 hasn’t met the ambitious goals set by Volkswagen.’ This isn’t just about sales numbers; it’s about establishing a dominant presence and proving that a legacy automaker can truly compete in the electric future. While the ID.4 continues to evolve, its initial struggles highlight the immense challenge of pivoting an entire automotive giant towards electrification, and the severe consequences when even a seemingly minor production issue can derail a meticulously laid plan and dampen a crucial launch.

The automotive landscape is an unforgiving beast, constantly evolving and demanding nothing less than perfection. After sifting through the early casualties that stumbled on design and initial reception, we now venture deeper into the territory of persistent reliability nightmares and strategic blunders that proved fatal for a host of once-promising SUVs. This isn’t just about a bad grille or an uninspired interior; we’re talking about fundamental flaws that gnawed away at customer trust and left indelible stains on brand legacies.

So, prepare yourselves, because the next eight entries on our list serve as stark reminders that even the most celebrated badges aren’t immune to the forces of market shifts, critical performance failures, and brand-wide challenges. It’s a brutal lesson in automotive Darwinism, where only the fittest, and perhaps the most foresightful, survive.

Car Model Information: 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S
Name: Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5
Caption: 2020 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
ModelCode: E21 (ID.4),E39 (ID.5)
Production: 2020–present
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Klaus Zyciora
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Volkswagen Group MEB platform
Related: Volkswagen ID.3,Volkswagen ID.Buzz,Volkswagen ID.6,Škoda Enyaq,Audi Q4 e-tron,Cupra Tavascan,Ford Explorer EV,Ford Capri EV
Layout: Rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive
Motor: APP 550,Brushless DC electric motor
Battery: Lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: 77-82 kWh, since 2024:,{{convert,263-291,mi,km,0,abbr=on
Charging: ubl
Wheelbase: 2765 mm
Abbr: on (ID.5)
Length: 4584 mm
Width: 1852 mm
Height: 1636 mm
Weight: convert
Powerout: Convert
ModelYears: 2021–present
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 German-language sources (de)
Summary: The Volkswagen ID.4 and Volkswagen ID.5 are battery electric compact crossover SUVs produced by Volkswagen. Based on the MEB platform, the ID.4 is the second model of the Volkswagen ID. series. The production version of the ID.4 debuted in September 2020 as the first fully-electric crossover SUV under the Volkswagen brand, while the coupe-shaped variant of the ID.4 (akin to the Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron) is marketed as the Volkswagen ID.5 and was presented in November 2021. The ID.4 is positioned by Volkswagen as a high-volume, mass-market electric vehicle — a car for “the millions, not the millionaires,” as the company claimed in its advertising. It was delivered to European customers from late 2020, and the first quarter of 2021 for the North American market. The ID.4 was elected World Car of the Year 2021 over runner-ups Honda e and Toyota Yaris. The vehicle was updated for model year 2024 to include a more powerful and efficient APP 550 electric motor with increased range, as well as heavily revised software and infotainment hardware.

Get more information about: Volkswagen ID.4

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Brand: Volkswagen Model: ID.4
Price: $23,788 Mileage: 46,591 mi.

8. **Range Rover Evoque Hybrid (2020 Model)**When the Range Rover Evoque Hybrid burst onto the scene in 2020, it had all the makings of a star. It combined that unmistakable Range Rover panache with the promise of eco-conscious motoring, appealing to a new generation of buyers who wanted both style and a nod to sustainability. On paper, it was a perfectly crafted blend of luxury, urban chic, and forward-thinking technology, set to carry the iconic badge into a greener future. What could possibly go wrong, you might ask? Well, as it turns out, quite a lot.

Beneath the sleek sheet metal and fashionable exterior, a sinister problem began to manifest: a pervasive and profoundly frustrating lack of reliability. Owners quickly reported ‘frequent breakdowns,’ turning what should have been a premium ownership experience into a logistical nightmare. Imagine shelling out for a luxury SUV, only for it to spend more time on the hoist than on the road, leaving you stranded and utterly disillusioned. It’s a bitter pill to swallow for any owner, let alone one expecting top-tier performance from a Range Rover.

The real kicker, however, was the agonizing ‘long delays for replacement parts.’ Vehicles were ‘averaging 21 days off the road for repairs,’ a figure that would make a less discerning owner weep. Even more shockingly, some unlucky souls saw their shiny new hybrids ‘laid up for over ten months,’ practically becoming permanent residents of the service bay. This catastrophic combination of breakdowns and interminable waits led to a damning verdict: the 2020 Evoque Hybrid earned itself the unenviable reputation as ‘Britain’s least favorite car,’ a title no manufacturer, especially one steeped in luxury, ever wants to claim. It serves as a brutal lesson that even the most fashionable can’t outrun shoddy engineering when it comes to long-term trust.

Car Model Information: 2022 Lincoln Aviator Reserve AWD
Name: Range Rover Evoque
Caption: 2019 Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic
Manufacturer: Land Rover Ltd.,Jaguar Land Rover
Production: July 2011 – present
Class: subcompact crossover SUV
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: Land Rover Freelander
Sp: uk
Categories: 2020s cars, ANCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles lacking reliable references
Summary: The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (), also known as the Range Rover Evoque or the Land Rover Evoque, is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV developed and produced by Jaguar Land Rover under their Land Rover marque. The original Evoque was a development of the Land Rover LRX concept vehicle, which was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January 2008. The first generation Evoque was produced from July 2011 until 2018 in three and five-door versions, with both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. The second generation of the car went into production in 2018.

Get more information about: Range Rover Evoque

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Brand: Range Rover Model: Evoque
Price: $39,000 Mileage: 66,933 mi.

9. **Ford Explorer (2023 Model)**The Ford Explorer. For decades, it’s been the quintessential American family SUV, a symbol of suburban adventure, soccer practice runs, and cross-country road trips. It’s woven into the very fabric of the nation’s automotive consciousness, a nameplate that commands respect and familiarity. So, to see it on a list like this feels almost like a betrayal of tradition. Yet, here we are, because even titans can stumble, and the 2023 model has certainly taken a tumble in the reliability stakes.

According to the eagle-eyed experts at Consumer Reports, the 2023 Explorer received a truly dismal ‘predicted reliability rating of just 1 out of 5.’ Let’s pause for a moment and consider what that means. A ‘1 out of 5’ isn’t just a bad day at the office; it’s a red alert, a full-blown emergency for any potential buyer. This isn’t merely a warning sign; it’s practically a giant neon arrow pointing to a future filled with ‘significant concerns for potential buyers.’ When a vehicle that’s meant to be the backbone of family life scores this low, it fundamentally undermines the very notion of dependability.

The Explorer’s woes stem from a variety of reported issues, building on a foundation of ‘recalls and quality control issues’ from previous model years. We’re talking about a vehicle that’s struggled with everything from ‘faulty transmissions to electronic glitches,’ according to reports from its owners. For a flagship model, especially one that carries such a storied legacy, these widespread reliability problems are nothing short of a crisis. It begs the question: how did an American icon, once so trusted, manage to drive itself into such a worrying position in just a few short years?

Car Model Information: 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum
Name: Ford Explorer
Caption: Sixth-generation Ford Explorer
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1990–present
ModelYears: 1991–present
Class: unbulleted list
Chassis: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Ford Bronco II
Successor: Ford Territory (Australia)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Ford Explorer is a range of SUVs manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since the 1991 model year. The first five-door SUV produced by Ford, the Explorer, was introduced as a replacement for the three-door Bronco II. As with the Ford Ranger, the model line derives its name from a trim package previously offered on Ford F-Series pickup trucks. As of 2020, the Explorer became the best-selling SUV in the American market. Currently in its sixth generation, the Explorer has featured a five-door wagon body style since its 1991 introduction. During the first two generations, the model line included a three-door wagon (directly replacing the Bronco II). The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a crew-cab mid-size pickup derived from the second-generation Explorer. The fifth and sixth generations of the Explorer have been produced as the Ford Police Interceptor Utility (replacing both the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor and the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan). The Explorer is slotted between the Ford Edge and Ford Expedition within North America’s current Ford SUV range. The model line has undergone rebadging several times, with Mazda, Mercury, and Lincoln each selling derivative variants. Currently, Lincoln markets a luxury version of the Explorer as the Lincoln Aviator. For the North American market, the first four generations of the Explorer were produced by Ford at its Louisville Assembly Plant (Louisville, Kentucky) and its now-closed St. Louis Assembly Plant (Hazelwood, Missouri). Ford currently assembles the Explorer alongside the Lincoln Aviator and the Police Interceptor Utility at its Chicago Assembly Plant (Chicago, Illinois).

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Brand: Ford Model: Explorer
Price: $33,399 Mileage: 35,792 mi.

10. **Toyota Land Cruiser (2022 Model)**Now, if any vehicle brand conjures images of unshakeable reliability and go-anywhere ruggedness, it’s Toyota, and specifically, the Land Cruiser. A true legend of the automotive world, it has conquered deserts, mountains, and everything in between since 1951, forging an almost mythical reputation for durability. It’s the vehicle you’d pick if the apocalypse was nigh, confident it would get you to safety. Which makes its performance in 2022 in the American market all the more baffling and, frankly, disheartening.

In a statistical anomaly that still raises eyebrows, ‘Toyota sold only 48 Land Cruiser SUVs in the United States’ in 2022. Let that sink in for a moment. Forty-eight. That’s fewer than many dealerships sell in a single weekend. It was, rather bluntly, ‘the worst-selling vehicle in the country for that year.’ These weren’t even fresh-off-the-line units; these ‘sales were from the remaining vehicles after the model was discontinued in 2021.’ It was the ignominious end of an era, a quiet farewell to a vehicle that had long transcended mere transportation to become a cultural icon.

The decline wasn’t entirely unexpected, mind you. The Land Cruiser, while utterly capable, had evolved into a vehicle with a ‘high price point and focus on luxury over ruggedness,’ which, for many, limited its appeal. It had drifted from its utilitarian roots into a niche market, leaving it vulnerable. While ‘sales skyrocketed to more than 29,000 units’ when it returned in 2024, the 2022 disaster undeniably highlighted a fundamental misstep in market positioning and a temporary but significant ‘decline in popularity.’ Even legends, it seems, can misread the room.

Car Model Information: 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT
Name: Toyota Land Cruiser
Caption: 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser ZX (VJA300, Colombia)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: 1951–present
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars
Summary: The Toyota Land Cruiser (Japanese: トヨタ・ランドクルーザー, Hepburn: Toyota Rando-Kurūzā), also sometimes spelt as LandCruiser, is a series of four-wheel drive vehicles produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It is Toyota’s longest running series of models. As of 2019, the sales of the Land Cruiser totalled more than 10 million units worldwide. Production of the first generation of the Land Cruiser began in 1951. The Land Cruiser has been produced in convertible, hardtop, station wagon and cab chassis body styles. The Land Cruiser’s reliability and longevity have led to huge popularity, especially in Australia, where it is the best-selling body-on-frame, four-wheel drive vehicle. Toyota also extensively tests the Land Cruiser in the Australian outback – considered to be one of the toughest operating environments in both temperature and terrain. In Japan, the Land Cruiser was once exclusive to Toyota Japanese dealerships called Toyota Store. Since 1990, the smaller variation of the Land Cruiser has been marketed as the Land Cruiser Prado. Described as a ‘light-duty’ version of the Land Cruiser by Toyota, it features a different design compared to the full-size model and, up until 2023, it remains the only comfort-oriented Land Cruiser available with a short-wheelbase 3-door version. As of 2023, the full-size Land Cruiser was available in many markets. Exceptions include the United States (since 2021 where the smaller Land Cruiser Prado has been sold under the Land Cruiser name since 2024), Canada (since 1996), Malaysia (which receives the Lexus LX instead), Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Brazil, and most of Europe. In Europe, the only countries where the full-size Land Cruiser is officially sold are Gibraltar, Moldova, Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. The Land Cruiser is hugely popular in the Middle East, Russia, Australia, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, New Caledonia, and Africa. It is used by farmers, the construction industry, non-governmental and humanitarian organizations, the United Nations, national armies (often the pickup version), and irregular armed groups who turn them into “technicals” by mounting machine guns in the rear. In August 2019, cumulative global sales of the Land Cruiser family surpassed 10 million units.

Get more information about: Toyota Land Cruiser

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Brand: Toyota Model: Land Cruiser
Price: $43,759 Mileage: 32,694 mi.

11. **Dodge Journey (2022 Model)**The Dodge Journey. For years, it was the sensible, no-nonsense choice for families on a budget, a practical hauler that filled a utilitarian gap in the market. It wasn’t flashy, it wasn’t particularly exciting, but it got the job done with a minimum of fuss. It was the kind of SUV that blended seamlessly into the background, a workhorse rather than a show pony. And yet, its journey, so to speak, came to a rather quiet and unceremonious end, as evidenced by its 2022 sales figures.

In a year where many manufacturers were scrambling to keep up with SUV demand, the Journey managed to shift a paltry ‘194 units.’ Let’s be clear: ‘These sales were from the remaining stock after the model was discontinued in 2020,’ meaning its true demand had already vanished a full two years prior. It’s a number that speaks volumes about ‘its diminished demand’ and the complete evaporation of its market appeal. The writing, or perhaps the ‘For Sale’ sign, was clearly on the wall long before its official demise.

The Journey suffered from a critical lack of updates, riding on an aging platform while competitors surged ahead with fresh designs, better technology, and vastly improved efficiency. It simply couldn’t keep pace in a fiercely competitive market that increasingly valued innovation. Its decline wasn’t a sudden crash but a slow, almost imperceptible fade into obscurity, proving that even a once-common sight can quietly vanish when it fails to evolve with the times. For the Journey, the road simply ran out.

Car Model Information: 2019 Dodge Journey SE
Name: Dodge Journey
Caption: 2012 Dodge Journey
Manufacturer: Dodge
Aka: Fiat Freemont,Dodge JC (Japan),Dodge JCUV (China)
Production: 2008–2020
ModelYears: 2009–2020,2011–2015 (Freemont)
Assembly: Toluca, Mexico
Designer: Ryan Nagode
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Mitsubishi GS platform
Related: Chrysler 200,Chrysler Sebring,Dodge Avenger
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Ultradrive#40TES/41TES
Wheelbase: 2890 mm
Abbr: on
Order: flip
Length: 192.4 in
Width: 72.2 in
Height: 66.6 in
Weight: 3818 lb
Predecessor: Fiat Ulysse,Fiat Croma
Successor: Dodge Journey (2021)
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Dodge brand for model years 2009 to 2020 over a single generation, with a facelift for the 2011 model year. The Journey was styled by Ryan Nagode, and was marketed globally in both left- and right-hand drive, including as the Fiat Freemont. Internally identified as the JC49, the Journey shares FCA’s global D-segment platform with the Dodge Avenger and a nearly identical wheelbase to the outgoing short-wheelbase (SWB) Dodge Caravan. Having debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Journey subsequently appeared at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. All models were manufactured in Mexico at FCA’s Toluca Assembly facility, with just over 1.1 million manufactured before production ended in 2020.

Get more information about: Dodge Journey

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Brand: Dodge Model: Journey
Price: $10,765 Mileage: 83,381 mi.

12. **Volkswagen Taos**Volkswagen’s entry into the burgeoning compact SUV segment with the Taos was meant to be a triumph of sensible German engineering meeting American market demand. It was marketed as an affordable, practical, and efficient option, designed to slot neatly into the VW lineup below the Tiguan. But, much like a carefully planned road trip encountering unexpected detours, the Taos has had a significantly bumpier ride than anticipated, plagued by issues that strike at the very heart of automotive ownership: reliability.

Consumer Reports, those steadfast bastions of automotive truth, slapped the Taos with ‘the lowest possible predicted reliability score of 1 out of 5.’ If that sounds familiar, it’s because it’s the same unenviable score given to the beleaguered Ford Explorer. A ‘1 out of 5’ is a catastrophic failure in the reliability department, a flashing hazard light for anyone even remotely considering one. It signals not just minor glitches, but deep, systemic problems that erode owner confidence with alarming speed.

Owners have, unfortunately, borne the brunt of these issues, reporting a litany of mechanical woes that would test the patience of a saint. We’re talking ‘major engine problems, faulty electrical components, and defective transmissions’ – a trifecta of misery for any driver. These aren’t minor annoyances; these are critical failures that have led to ‘roadside strandings and other mechanical failures,’ turning everyday commutes into stressful gambles. For a brand synonymous with engineering precision, the Taos’s reliability record is a genuine head-scratcher, demonstrating that even a well-intentioned market entry can spectacularly misfire when the fundamentals aren’t rock solid.

Car Model Information: 2024 Volkswagen Taos 1.5T SE
Name: Volkswagen Taos/Tharu
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
Aka: Volkswagen Tharu
Production: ubl
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Klaus Zyciora
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Platform: Volkswagen Group MQB A1
Related: SEAT Ateca,Škoda Karoq,Jetta VS5
Engine: Petrol engine,Turbocharger,1.4 L TSI 150 I4,1.5 L TSI 160 I4,Multi-point fuel injection,2.0 L TSI 190 I4
Transmission: Manual transmission
Battery: 44.1 kWh (e-Tharu)
ElectricRange: convert
Wheelbase: 105.9 in
Abbr: on
Order: 4453 mm
Length: 175.8 in
Width: 1841 mm
Height: convert
ModelYears: 2022–present
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 Brazilian Portuguese-language sources (pt-br), CS1 Mexican Spanish-language sources (es-mx)
Summary: The Volkswagen Taos is a compact crossover SUV marketed by Volkswagen. It was first released in October 2018 as the Volkswagen Tharu in China, while the Taos was released in October 2020 as a restyled version of the Tharu for the North American, South American, and Russian markets. In the brand’s lineup, the vehicle is positioned below the Tiguan, and in South America and China above the T-Cross. It is not marketed in core European market. The Taos is named after Taos, New Mexico. The Tharu name is derived after the eponymous Tharu people, an ethnic group indigenous to Nepal and Northern India.

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Brand: Volkswagen Model: Taos
Price: $23,744 Mileage: 6,947 mi.

13. **Jeep (Various Models, 2025)**Jeep. The name alone conjures visions of rugged individualism, unparalleled off-road prowess, and an adventurous spirit that scoffs at paved roads. It’s a brand built on a foundation of capability, trust, and the promise of taking you anywhere. So, when ‘various Jeep models’ in 2025 are rated ‘poorly for reliability,’ it’s not just a minor inconvenience; it’s a profound betrayal of the very essence of the brand. This isn’t just about a few disgruntled owners; it’s a systemic problem that tarnishes an entire legacy.

Consumer Reports, once again, delivers the grim news, rating ‘most Jeep models at 21/100 for unreliability.’ That’s a score that makes you wince, a stark indicator that something is fundamentally amiss within the brand’s current offerings. For a marque that prides itself on bulletproof dependability, particularly when venturing far from civilization, such a low rating sends shivers down the spine of loyalists and potential new buyers alike. It suggests that the spirit of adventure might, unfortunately, be accompanied by an unwelcome side dish of mechanical uncertainty.

Adding insult to injury are the ‘recent recalls for power loss.’ For a vehicle designed to tackle challenging terrain, losing power isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a dangerous, potentially life-threatening situation. This fundamental failure strikes at the core of what makes a Jeep, well, a Jeep. It’s a critical blow to the brand’s legendary status, a stark reminder that even the most iconic names must tirelessly uphold their commitment to quality, or risk seeing their adventurous spirit tainted by persistent mechanical woes and a worrying loss of consumer trust.

14. **Kia (Various Models, 2025)**Kia’s journey over the past two decades has been nothing short of remarkable. From a brand once associated with budget-friendly, no-frills transportation, it has transformed into a design-forward, tech-laden powerhouse, offering impressive value and stylish vehicles. They’ve built a reputation for innovation and quality, steadily climbing the ranks of consumer satisfaction. Which makes the prospect of ‘significant recalls in 2025,’ particularly for ‘EV models and petrol cars’ fire hazards,’ a particularly devastating blow to this hard-earned reputation.

When a recall centers on ‘fire hazards,’ it transcends mere reliability issues and enters the realm of critical safety concerns. This isn’t about a faulty infotainment screen or an annoying rattle; it’s about the potential for catastrophic failure, putting lives at risk. Such issues strike directly at the trust consumers place in a manufacturer, creating a crisis of confidence that can take years, if not decades, to fully repair. For a brand that has worked so diligently to shed its old image, this kind of setback is especially painful.

These widespread issues have, understandably, ‘raised concerns among consumers regarding the brand’s reliability.’ It’s a gut-wrenching turn of events for a company that has invested so heavily in advanced technology and design. While Kia will undoubtedly pour resources into rectifying these problems, the shadow of these fire hazard recalls will loom large. It’s a sobering reminder that in the hyper-competitive automotive world, a reputation built over years of consistent improvement can be jeopardized in a single, devastating moment, forcing a brand to fight an uphill battle to regain consumer faith.

15. **Land Rover Defender (2025 Model)**Ah, the Land Rover Defender. The name alone evokes images of intrepid exploration, unwavering capability, and a rugged elegance that’s almost unmatched. Its rebirth was met with widespread excitement, offering a modern interpretation of an off-road legend, blending luxurious comforts with its iconic, go-anywhere spirit. It’s the kind of vehicle that promises to take you to the ends of the earth and back, all while ensuring you arrive in style and comfort. Yet, even this paragon of adventure isn’t immune to the unforgiving scrutiny of the market, with the 2025 model already facing a rather challenging reputation.

Despite its pedigree and formidable presence, the ‘Land Rover Defender has already been deemed unreliable in 2025.’ This isn’t merely a few grumbles; it’s backed up by ‘numerous recalls and issues reported by owners.’ For a vehicle designed and marketed for its ability to conquer the most demanding terrains, persistent reliability issues are not just a flaw; they are a fundamental contradiction. The irony of a luxury adventure machine that itself becomes an adventure in frustration is not lost on those who’ve invested in its formidable capabilities.

These concerns have, predictably, ‘affected the model’s reputation and sales.’ When a vehicle that embodies durability and steadfast performance begins to suffer from mechanical woes, the trust it has meticulously built can erode remarkably quickly. It’s a cruel twist of fate for a nameplate synonymous with resilience. The Defender’s current struggles highlight a crucial truth: in the automotive world, especially in the premium segment, the promise of adventure must always be backed by the unwavering reality of reliability. Otherwise, even the mightiest of legends can find their armor tarnished, facing a grueling battle to reclaim their rightful place at the pinnacle of automotive excellence.

Car Model Information: 2022 Lincoln Aviator Reserve AWD
Caption: 2015 Land Rover Defender 90 (Australia)
Name: Land Rover Defender
Manufacturer: ubl
Class: Small offroader
Aka: Land Rover 90, Ninety, 110, One Ten, One Two Seven (1983–1990)
Production: ubl
Predecessor: Land Rover Series III
Successor: Land Rover Defender (L663)
Assembly: Shah Alam,Kulim
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,four-wheel drive
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The Land Rover Defender (introduced as the Land Rover One Ten, joined in 1984 by the Land Rover Ninety, plus the extra-length Land Rover One Two Seven in 1985) is a series of British off-road cars and pickup trucks. They have four-wheel drive, and were developed in the 1980s from the Land Rover series which was launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show in April 1948. Following the 1989 introduction of the Land Rover Discovery, the term ‘Land Rover’ became the name of a broader marque, no longer the name of a specific model; thus in 1990 Land Rover renamed them as Defender 90 and Defender 110 and Defender 130 respectively. The vehicle, a British equivalent of the Second World War derived (Willys) Jeep, gained a worldwide reputation for ruggedness and versatility. With a steel ladder chassis and an aluminium alloy bodywork, the Land Rover originally used detuned versions of Rover engines. Though the Defender was not a new generation design, it incorporated significant changes compared to the Land Rover series, such as adopting coil springs front and rear. Coil springs offered both better ride quality and improved axle articulation. The addition of a centre differential to the transfer case gave the Defender permanent four-wheel-drive capability. Both changes were derived from the original Range Rover, and the interiors were also modernised. Whilst the engines were carried over from the Series III, a new series of modern and more powerful engines was progressively introduced. Even when ignoring the series Land Rovers and perhaps ongoing licence products, the 90/110 and Defender models’ 33-year production run were ranked as the sixteenth longest single-generation car in history in 2020. In 2020, Jaguar Land Rover introduced an all new generation of Land Rover Defender Land Rover Defender (L663) switching from body on chassis to integrated bodywork and from live, rigid axles to all around independent suspension.

Get more information about: Land Rover Defender

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Brand: Land Rover Model: Defender
Price: $39,000 Mileage: 66,933 mi.

So there you have it: a revealing glimpse into the often-brutal realities of the SUV market. From audacious design misfires that left buyers scratching their heads to crippling reliability issues that turned dream drives into logistical nightmares, these vehicles stand as stark reminders. They prove that even the most established brands and promising concepts can falter, underscoring the relentless pressure to deliver unwavering quality, anticipate market shifts, and truly understand the pulse of consumer desires. The road to automotive success, it seems, is paved with far more than just good intentions.