Avoid these full-size SUVs due to poor safety ratings, crash test failures, and reliability concerns. Models like the Volkswagen Taos, Ford Explorer, and Jeep Grand Cherokee L are highlighted for their safety issues. Ensure your next vehicle choice prioritizes safety and reliability.
Least Safe Full-Size SUVs
When it comes to full-size SUVs, safety is a top priority. However, not all models shine equally bright in this department. Here are some key areas to consider:
Models with Poor Safety Ratings
Some full-size SUVs have received poor safety ratings, which can be a significant concern for families and individuals looking for a reliable vehicle. For instance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and L have been ranked low in reliability assessments, placing them at the bottom of the list among all car brands. This is particularly alarming given their relatively low fuel efficiency and the frequency of repairs needed.
Safety Features Absence
A crucial aspect of safety is the presence of advanced safety features. Unfortunately, some full-size SUVs lack these essential features, which can leave drivers and passengers vulnerable in the event of an accident. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and L, for example, do not offer the same level of safety features as their competitors, making them a less desirable choice for those prioritizing safety.
Crash Test Failures
Crash tests are a rigorous way to evaluate a vehicle’s safety performance. While many full-size SUVs excel in these tests, some models have failed to impress. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and L, for instance, have been known to perform poorly in certain crash tests, which raises serious concerns about their overall safety.
Reliability Concerns
Reliability is another critical factor in determining the safety of a vehicle. A reliable vehicle is less likely to break down, which reduces the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failure. However, some full-size SUVs have reliability issues that can compromise their safety. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and L, for example, have been plagued by frequent breakdowns and high repair costs, making them a less reliable choice.
Manufacturer Reputation Issues
The reputation of the manufacturer can also impact the safety of a vehicle. Companies with a history of producing reliable and safe vehicles are more likely to continue this trend. Conversely, manufacturers with a poor reputation for safety may produce vehicles that are less safe. The Jeep brand, for instance, has struggled with reliability and safety issues in recent years, which has affected the overall safety of their models.
Specific Models to Avoid
Volkswagen Taos
The Volkswagen Taos is one of those SUVs that you might want to steer clear of, especially if you’re looking for reliability and safety. According to Consumer Reports, the Taos ranked just above the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan in terms of dependability. While it has undergone a makeover with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a more robust 174-horsepower engine, these updates might not be enough to spark American interest in the vehicle. The Taos is priced at $1,000 more than its 2024 predecessor, which might not justify the extra cost for some buyers. So, if you’re considering the Taos, it’s essential to weigh its pros and cons carefully, especially when it comes to reliability and safety features.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is another SUV that you might want to avoid, despite its average repair and maintenance costs. While RepairPal positions the Explorer at 19th place among 26 midsize SUV models, it’s still a model that has its share of issues. CarsDirect’s evaluation of incentive data ranks the 2025 Explorer as the least favorable SUV to lease, which is a significant concern for many buyers. The Explorer’s performance and dependability are decent, but its overall ranking in the market suggests that there are better options available. If you’re in the market for a reliable and safe SUV, you might want to look elsewhere.
Jeep Grand Cherokee and L
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and its three-row counterpart, the Grand Cherokee L, are SUVs that have suffered in terms of reliability in recent years. Consumer Reports’ reliability assessments placed Jeep at the bottom of the list, ranking it 34th among all car brands and 15th among mainstream brands (excluding luxury). These models achieve a meager 20 and 19 miles per gallon, respectively, and are featured on CR’s list of the 10 least reliable vehicles. The Grand Cherokee and L are more of a last resort than a preferred option for 2025 SUV shoppers, especially considering their poor reliability and safety records.
Safety Test Failures
Safety tests are like the ultimate obstacle course for cars. They push vehicles to their limits to ensure they can protect you and your loved ones in real-world scenarios. Let’s dive into some SUVs that didn’t quite make the cut.
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Miss
Imagine you’re trying to win a gold medal in a competition. The IIHS Top Safety Pick+ is like that gold medal, and it’s not easy to achieve. The 2025 Kia Sorento, for instance, earned a Top Safety Pick award but missed out on the Top Safety Pick+ due to a marginal score in the updated front crash test. This means it didn’t quite meet the highest standards for frontal crashes, which is crucial for protecting passengers in the event of a collision.
NHTSA Five-Star Rating Issues
The NHTSA five-star safety rating is like a badge of honor for cars. It signifies that the vehicle has performed exceptionally well in crash tests. However, some SUVs have struggled to achieve this top rating. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and its three-row counterpart, the Grand Cherokee L, are examples. Despite their off-road capabilities, they only managed a meager 20 and 19 miles per gallon, respectively, and were featured on CR’s list of the 10 least reliable vehicles.
Advanced Safety Feature Absence
Advanced safety features are like the superheroes of the automotive world. They help prevent accidents and protect you in case something goes wrong. Unfortunately, some SUVs lack these essential features. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and L models, for instance, are known for their reliability issues and lack of advanced safety features. This means they might not have features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, or adaptive cruise control, which are crucial for maintaining safety on the road.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability and maintenance are crucial aspects of any vehicle, especially when it comes to SUVs. You want an SUV that not only looks great but also runs smoothly and efficiently. Here’s what you need to know about the reliability and maintenance of certain SUVs.
High Repair Costs
High repair costs can be a significant financial burden, especially if your SUV is prone to frequent breakdowns. Imagine having to shell out thousands of dollars for repairs every few months. It’s like having a car that’s always in the shop, leaving you stranded and frustrated.
Some SUVs are notorious for their high repair costs. For instance, the Ford Explorer has been known to have average repair and maintenance costs, but it ranks 19th among 26 midsize SUV models in terms of reliability. This means that while it might not be the worst, it’s not the best either. You might find yourself spending more money on repairs than you anticipated, which can be a significant drawback.
Frequent Breakdowns
Frequent breakdowns can be a nightmare. Imagine being on a long road trip and having your SUV suddenly break down. It’s not just inconvenient; it’s also stressful and potentially dangerous. You want an SUV that’s reliable and can handle the demands of daily driving without faltering.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and L have suffered from reliability issues in recent years. Consumer Reports ranked Jeep 34th among all car brands and 15th among mainstream brands in terms of reliability. These SUVs are not only less reliable but also less fuel-efficient, achieving only 20 and 19 miles per gallon, respectively.
Manufacturer Recall History
A manufacturer’s recall history can be a red flag. It indicates that the company has had issues with their products in the past, which could mean that your SUV might have similar problems. Imagine buying a car only to find out that it’s been recalled multiple times. It’s like buying a product that’s already had its fair share of problems.
The Volkswagen Taos has been listed as one of the least reliable vehicles for 2024. While it has undergone some updates, including a new 8-inch touchscreen and a more robust engine, its reliability remains a concern. This means that you might encounter frequent breakdowns or high repair costs, which could be a significant drawback for many buyers.