Popular Cars to Avoid and What to Buy Instead
Skip high-selling models with low scores or reliability ratings, and consider these winners
Popular vehicles tend to fall into three camps: models from brands people trust; those from brands that have a broad dealer network; and mediocre models that have been priced to move or are pushed in droves through rebates, low-interest financing, and attractive leases.
The challenge for car shoppers—whether they’re buying new or used—is to separate the winners from the cars to avoid. All the vehicles we highlight below sell so well that there are many models on dealer lots to choose from, some with tempting discounts.
Consumer Reports has identified several popular models and much better choices. We focus on those that are popular in their category, although they may not be the top sellers. Then we present two alternatives.
• A popular alternative: Another vehicle that sells well and has a higher Overall Score.
• An “under the radar” choice: A better-scoring model that doesn’t sell as well, in case you don’t want to follow the crowd.