Buying a car means sifting through endless selections, reviews and specifications. But not all bestsellers deserve their popularity, writes Quartz. “Consumers tell us that they prioritize factors such as reliability and safety when purchasing a car, but when it comes time to buy, very often the car’s styling or image influences the decision,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at Consumer Reports ( consumer reporting company). Which cars should you avoid and which should you choose instead?
Ford Escape / Honda CR-V
According to Consumer Reports, the regular version of the popular compact SUV Ford Escape is unreliable. It has delayed technology with limited chair movement and often makes a quiet noise. The car scored 59/100 points on the CR (Consumer Reports) scale.
Instead, the report recommends Honda CR-Vif you are looking for a compact SUV. It features confident handling, spacious seats, large cargo space and easy-to-use infotainment features and controls.
Jeep Grand Cherokee / Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular option for a midsize 3-row SUV, but Consumer Reports gave it a low rating: 51/100. He claims the car has poor fuel efficiency, slow acceleration and a noisy engine.
For a similar price – and depending on the model, even less than the Jeep – Consumer Reports suggests checking it out Toyota Highlander Hybrid. It is efficient and has a comfortable interior.
Volvo XC60 / Lexus NX Hybrid
Volvo XC60 is a popular luxury 2-row SUV, but Consumer Reports wasn’t thrilled with it. It scored 60/100, with below-average reliability and a strange-sounding engine. Its ride seemed unsmooth and its fuel economy was mediocre.
Consumer Reports suggests instead Lexus NX Hybridwho scored 83/100 points. “Responsive steering, lively handling and a well-finished cabin are among its strong points,” commented CR.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid/Kia Carnival
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a popular minivan, but it wouldn’t be if Consumer Reports had its way. It only scored 53/100 for lack of reliability and low average owner satisfaction.
Consumer Reports rates Kia Carnival as the No. 1 option for a 3-row minivan, saying it’s “roomy, comfortable and defined.” The car scored 82 out of a possible 100 points, praising its smooth gearbox and confident handling, as well as high reliability.
Volkswagen Jetta/Mazda 3
Volkswagen Jetta it’s a popular small car, but it’s not recommended by Consumer Reports. Although it’s a top-performing small car, it scores poorly in CR’s annual automotive surveys, with owner satisfaction well below average.
According to Consumer Reports, the better option is Mazda 3. “The Mazda 3 is almost what the Jetta used to be,” CR reports. “It has agile handling, an impressively finished interior, a firm but shock-absorbing ride and short braking distances.”
Mercedes C-Class / BMW 3 Series
If you’re looking for a luxury sedan, Consumer Reports advises skipping the Class C Mercedes-Benzwhich was ranked second to last among compact luxury cars due to its “stiff ride, long stopping distances and overly complicated controls.” It received a disappointing score of 49/100 from CR, and its survey showed that most buyers would not buy the car again.
Instead of a C-Class, Consumer Reports suggests checking out BMW 3 Serieswhich he says is “exciting” to drive and has beautiful finishes with a comfortable interior.
