Top 10 Used Cars To Stay Away From (PDF)
New and used cars offer drivers safety, reliability, fuel economy, and better technology than ever before. All of this comes at an affordable price too. However, not all vehicles are created equal. There are a few things to look out for when considering purchasing a used car to avoid making costly mistakes.
You’ll find plenty of crossover models in this list that may fit your needs. However, there are plenty of better options out there. Many of the cars on this list lack standard features and deliver poor gas mileage, while others may be just dull to drive and own. No matter what the case is, test-driving these vehicles will give you all the information you need to decide which ones are right for you.
Here’s a list of used cars we recommend you avoid next time you’re in search of a new ride:
- 2016 Lincoln MKZ
The 2016 Lincoln MKZ is a good-looking sedan that provides a cushy ride, but it’s not the most refined or luxurious car around. It falls short on both counts when you compare it to its competition. - 2020 Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is a great-looking car, but it doesn’t offer the latest safety or entertainment tech. The engine doesn’t feel powerful enough and the ride quality is atrocious in many situations. - 2016 Cadillac ELR
The Cadillac ELR may be the most fuel-efficient car on the road, but it falls short in almost every other category. ELR sees 233 horsepower from a four-cylinder gas engine paired with two electric motors. The handoff between components is smooth and acceleration is decent. But, what you’ll probably notice first is the gas engine’s gruff noise, which often gets downright noisy at low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic. - 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser
If you’re looking for a luxury SUV with excellent off-road capability, the Toyota Land Cruiser has something for you. But at the same time, it has high gas mileage and doesn’t always feel that comfortable on slick roads. - 2019 Buick Cascada
Considering its reliability ratings and low ownership costs, the Buick Cascada is a solid choice. However, it’s not made for drivers who love driving fast or want a lot of tech features. - 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
The Eclipse Cross is a funky car with some shining qualities, such as great fuel economy and a spacious interior. However, it has limited tech options and a below-average reliability score. - 2019 Ford EcoSport
Alongside its small size, the Ford EcoSport has a few downsides. Ford offers very few advanced safety features, and the ride can be uncomfortable at times. - 2015 Nissan Titan
The Nissan Titan offers solid handling. The list of positives stops there, however. The truck’s interior feels cheap, it delivers average fuel economy and can’t tow as much as most of its rivals. - 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C
The Alfa Romeo 4C is an Italian sports car that you should take caution when purchasing. If driving is uncomfortable for you, then this might be the wrong car for you because it’s very aggressive, and exits and enters carelessly. - 2019 Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mirage has a low starting price, which is a warning for those who might buy one. This car is underpowered, has barely any cargo space is uncomfortable to ride in and offers below-average reliability and safety.
