Buying a new car in 2025 was not cheap, which makes every purchase feel like a bigger gamble. Even when a model comes from a trusted brand, shoppers still have to worry about reliability, owner satisfaction, repair costs, recalls, and whether the vehicle actually delivers enough value for the price. Automakers spend enormous amounts of time and money trying to improve quality, reduce defects, and make vehicles more dependable, but not every 2025 model has lived up to that promise.

That is why some shoppers are probably relieved they waited, researched a little longer, or walked away from a tempting deal. Reviews and reliability data from sources like Edmunds, Consumer Reports, Kelley Blue Book, and other automotive outlets can reveal patterns that a showroom test drive might miss. As the 2025 model year data becomes clearer, these are the cars that struggled most with reliability, owner satisfaction, or overall value — and the ones many buyers may be glad they did not bring home.

Jeep Wrangler

Despite a reputation built around off-roading excellence, the Jeep Wrangler is one choice you might want to steer clear of when purchasing new. Even new Wranglers are prone to some common issues with build quality, engine issues, electrical concerns, and malfunctioning powertrains. While the Wrangler remains a popular choice with drivers, there are plenty of customer complaints that suggest you’re having to compromise somewhere.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Like the Wrangler, the Grand Cherokee has a mixed reputation when it comes to overall reliability. Users have noted issues with construction, climate control, general reliability, and the drivetrain. While offering quite a few features for the price point, this is one SUV where you might be spending more time at the mechanic’s shop than being on the road.

Volvo XC60

Despite a reputation for general reliability and safety, this is one Volvo you’ll do well to avoid. The XC60 is a pioneering vehicle in many regards, pushing the envelope when it comes to plug-in hybrids. However, it is plagued with issues relating to its battery, charging system, and other key electrical components. When you’re paying a premium for a vehicle like this, you expect it to work with minimal issues. Recent advisories have drivers being told not to charge their vehicles as well, as part of a recall program.

Rivian R1T

Rivian is an electric startup that has set its sights on providing capable vehicles for all conditions. As with any new vehicle, there is no shortage of teething issues to worry about when purchasing the likes of the R1T. Despite its capabilities as an electric truck, the R1T has a slew of quality control issues and infotainment glitches that are still being ironed out. Users looking for a new electric truck might be better off waiting for these issues to be resolved before paying a premium.

Volkswagen Taos

VW’s generally sterling reputation has taken some hits in recent years. The Taos is one of the main concerns when looking at the modern Volkswagen product line, with engine and transmission issues being frequently cited by owners. Others don’t have issues with the vehicle, but consumer reviews are quite mixed for the Taos. While it is an affordable model in the overall VW stable, you might be better off spending your money elsewhere until its issues are fully resolved.

Ford F-150 Lightning

Any new model is going to have teething issues; that’s just been a constant fixture in automotive development for decades at this point. While the F-150 Lightning represents a paradigm shift for Ford, it has its share of issues to be concerned with. Earlier models are prone to problems with the battery and charging components, leading to some concerns about the overall lifespan of the vehicle. This is one of those electric trucks to exercise extreme caution with when purchasing new, as these problems might still be present in 2025 production models.

Nissan Frontier

While the latest generation of the Frontier is just hitting dealership lots, there are plenty of the previous generation still for sale. You’ll want to steer well clear of some older Frontiers, at least when going by certain production years, as they have some glaring issues with the powertrain that affect overall reliability. Drivers have noted issues with the transmission as well, with gear shifts being rough and unreliable in some conditions. When coupled with its dated styling, you’d be better off with the competition.

Alfa Romeo Giulia

These Italian cars are built for those who love to drive, boasting superb handling and a stylish exterior. They’re also a beloved sight by mechanics, who stand to make a pretty penny on keeping these cars on the road. The Giulia historically has suffered from issues with its general reliability, with electrical components and major mechanical issues being present, at least according to Consumer Reports. If you’re looking to hit the road in a Giulia, it might help to keep a rainy day fund for the persistent issues they face.

Genesis GV80

Despite being part of the Hyundai product line, the GV80 has a somewhat mixed reputation when it comes to overall reliability. Hyundai’s main product line is knocking it out of the park when it comes to general reliability, but the Genesis GV80 has some drivers reporting persistent issues with the electrical systems that will need ironing out before a purchase is recommended.

Chevrolet Colorado

Certain models of the Colorado are pickup trucks you’ll want to avoid. Recurring issues center around the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. This only affects certain powertrains and engine options across production runs, but drivers will want to do their due diligence before budgeting for one of these unibody trucks. Certain models excel in their given niche, being great daily drivers or work trucks. However, the general spotty reputation according to consumer consensus means you’ll need to do some legwork before driving one off the dealership lot.

Tesla Model S

Our final entry, the Tesla Model S, is routinely plagued with issues. The luxury end of the Tesla product line has a mixed reputation, owed in part to its poor quality control, spotty reliability, and lengthy service times. Given that you can’t take a Model S to a traditional mechanic, you’re operating on the whims and wait times of the Tesla service department. There are more reliable electric sedans on the market without the reliability concerns that more than match up to the Model S in terms of overall luxury.

Data and Sources

It can be tough combing across the internet to get accurate data on a potential vehicle purchase. We make use of resources like Consumer Reports, which shows below-average reliability for the Tesla Model S, to get expert opinions on new cars. Further, resources like Edmunds are invaluable for getting to the bottom of consumer opinions. Finally, resources like Cars.com are fantastic for staying informed about ongoing recall campaigns, like the one for the Volvo XC60 Recharge.