Every year, it’s good to know which brands make the best cars, the cream of the crop, if you will, so you can have a better idea of what to buy. You can also reasonably discern which makes or models are better than they were in previous years, and consider which used models might be worth buying in a year or so—because they get such high scores. Some of these brands include Subaru, BMW, Porsche, Honda, Toyota, Lexus, and Lincoln. But it’s also good to know the opposite: which cars are the worst.
By reviewing the worst cars on the market, you know which makes and models to stay away from, ultimately knowing which brands are likely to decline year after year, which is certainly good to know if you already own a car from that brand. You might be surprised to find out about some of the brands that make the worst cars, according to Consumer Reports. Interestingly, some of these brands also sell electric car models that you should probably avoid, for various reasons.
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1. Jeep
Jeep Wrangler rock climbing outdoors with open cockpit. – jeep
The 2026 Jeep model ranks at the bottom of Consumer Reports’ list of “Brands that Make the Best Cars” and is one of the least recommended models by automotive experts. Consumer Reports points to issues like poor fuel economy, loud wind noise, and uncomfortable interiors, so they’re not as driver- and passenger-friendly as one might think. But what really knocks them down a notch is the poor user reliability ratings for the 2026 Jeep models. This is the collective rating for all models, but it’s worth noting if you’re considering buying one.
Of course, that doesn’t mean they’re unpopular. Jeeps remain one of the best-selling vehicles on the market today. The company is known for its rugged off-grid models like the Wrangler and Compass. Those who want a more elegant tour can choose from the Wagoneer and Grand Cherokee models. However, don’t expect the ultra-comfortable ride you get in the CR’s competition. Now might be a good time to note that Jeep is also one of the last in CR’s owner satisfaction ratings.
2. Land Rover
View of the Range Rover Evoque from the side of the Land Rover parked outside. – Land Rover
Land Rover has a place on the list, but it might look strange at first glance. That’s because the brand is known for its luxury cars, with Consumer Reports praising their comfortable and spacious interiors, powerful engines, and impressive executive styling. The problem seems to be that the brand has also long been known for frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs, and the 2026 model does nothing to alleviate those concerns.
Land Rovers have higher maintenance and repair costs because they rely on specialized labor and parts. In addition, Consumer Affairs reviews list common issues like engine failure or transmission issues as vehicle problems that are more costly to deal with on new and used cars. This will definitely reduce the perceived value of a used Land Rover – no one wants to buy a car that looks like new but ends up with serious engine issues.
3. General Motors
2026 GMC Terrain parked outdoors next to the barn. – General Motors
Consumer Reports did give GMC some praise for its lineup of SUVs and trucks, but also noted that they are basically redesigned versions of Chevrolet models with slightly different badges and upgrades. However, Chevrolet scored slightly higher on the list, while GMC took a hit with its “below average” reliability rating. Another GM brand, Buick, ranks even higher, making GMC’s ranking even more unfortunate. General Motors is also one of the top-selling automakers overall, although Chevrolet is largely responsible for that performance.
However, that probably won’t stop GMC from growing. The GMC Sierra is one of the best-selling U.S. trucks in 2026, even though the brand consistently ranks among the bottom five automakers. In 2026, the brand’s crossovers appear to be among the least reliable models, with the Terrain, Acadia, and Canyon scoring below average. Although GMC scored lower, it did have good owner satisfaction. It may all depend on whether the 2026 model’s features fit your family and lifestyle. The GMC has only a handful of exclusive reviews on Consumer Affairs, but none of them are outstanding.
4. Dodge
The red Dodge Charger BHP was parked outside the retro restaurant with the sign unlit. – Dodge
You might be surprised to see that one of the brands lower on the list is Dodge. The brand is known for muscular, powerful cars like the Charger and Challenger, and in recent years it has been infusing that energy into its sedans and SUVs like the Durango.
As for why it didn’t get a higher ranking, Consumer Reports cited the brand’s consistently low reliability scores, noting poor performance in crash tests and road tests and lagging user satisfaction ratings. The Dodge Hornet’s particularly low score weighs down the brand’s overall performance, but there aren’t any other standout models in terms of frontal scores either.
Notably, the Dodge Durango ended 2025 with one of its best quarters the previous year. This could signal a disconnect between what Consumer Reports calls low-value tools (aggregated 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 find out if the Durango still sells well and whether it joins Dodge’s other products among the best-selling cars of the year.
5. Alfa Romeo
A red Alfa Romeo Stelvio drives on the road with mountains behind it. – Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo seems to follow the same pattern as other low-scoring brands on the list. According to CR, its vehicles are agile, powerful, and fun to drive, but they also have low reliability ratings, making them a tough recommendation for most people.
Alfa Romeo is a typical Italian luxury car manufacturer headquartered in Europe. Therefore, the company incorporated “unusual details” that manifest themselves in features and controls that are less convenient for modern drivers. Like the B-pillars on the Giulia, side vertical support pillars protect the center of the cabin.
Tonale and Giulia had lower brand reliability and user satisfaction scores. On the other hand, about 95% of reviewers on Kelley Blue Book recommend the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Many reviewers say they love this car because of its unique driving feel, unique styling and fun driving experience. Still, there are plenty of people with lower scores who question and comment on the brand’s reliability.
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