Consumer Reports assesses vehicle performance data by more than 300,000 car owners to put together their rankings, which reflect the magazine’s predictions of 2021 model-year reliability.
Reliability is a huge factor in what makes cars worth buying. Folks at Consumer Reports evaluate based on regimented performance tests and survey results.
More than 250 models compete each year to meet the highest standards for performance, safety, reliability and more.
Here are the top 10 least reliable cars of 2021, according to Consumer Reports.
10. Volvo XC60
Volvo’s second-generation XC60 is a scaled-down version of the XC90, which is also included on this list. Similar to the XC90, it has some downsides making it unreliable. The major issues are in the electric system, power equipment, in-car electronics and engine.
While the XC60 did score favorably in the road test portion of CR’s testing, it didn’t impress as much as its big brother, XC90. The ride is stiff, and the controls are convoluted and distracting.
Even though its 250-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is responsive, its eight-speed automatic transmission has occasional hiccups.
9. Ford EcoSport
Ford isn’t known for making the most reliable cars. The Ford EcoSport’s ride is harsh, and the cabin is noisy. In addition, the side-hinged rear hatch door can be annoying to use when the vehicle is parallel-parked.
BSW with cross-traffic warning is offered on higher trims, but neither FCW nor AEB is available. It also suffers from an underpowered base engine and limited advanced safety features.
Unfortunately, the EcoSport is not particularly economical or fast. The 2.0-liter is more fuel-efficient than the 1.0-liter, though neither matched EPA estimates in Car and Driver’s testing. The 2.0-liter is powerful but still struggles to get the EcoSport up to highway speeds.
