SUV shoppers have many options to choose from in 2025. That means that if you do some homework, you can find a vehicle that is affordable and reliable, and that might even help you save money on car insurance.
However, not all SUVs are worth shoppers' hard-earned money. Reviewers and owners say buyers might want to steer clear of these SUVs if they want to spend their money wisely. We also include each vehicle's manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).
Kia Seltos
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MSRP: $23,690
The 2026 Kia Seltos is an affordable subcompact SUV. It is stylish and has solid technology features, such as dual 10.25-inch interior screens.
However, reviewers say it offers an uncomfortable, lackluster driving experience. Some Kia Seltos owners posted on an Edmunds forum that they regret their purchase, complaining that it offers a noisy ride and a frustrating interior lighting setup.
Nissan Kicks
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MSRP: $21,830
The 2025 Nissan Kicks features an appealing exterior design and a budget-friendly price tag. Reviewers praise the SUV's intuitive technology setup.
However, they also criticize its underwhelming engine and anemic transmission, which give the vehicle a disappointing driving experience.
Nissan Kicks owners have complained on Edmunds about the SUV's poor manufacturing quality, citing issues with the dashboard and an unreliable transmission.
Kia Sorento Hybrid
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MSRP: $38,690
The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid offers a smooth driving experience, according to reviewers. However, they take issue with the SUV's cramped third row and paltry cargo capacity.
Some consumers regret purchasing this SUV, posting on Edmunds that it has design flaws and poor manufacturing quality. They also report issues with the infotainment system, steering wheel, and sound system.
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Volkswagen Taos
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MSRP: $25,495
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos is available at an attractive price point. However, some reviewers criticize its awkward transmission, and at least one car owner at Edmunds characterizes the transmission as "lazy."
Some also take issue with the SUV's noticeable engine and road noise while driving on the highway.
Infiniti QX50
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MSRP: $43,000
Reviewers say the 2025 Infiniti QX50 has dated technology features and meager performance capabilities.
In particular, they criticize its two-screen infotainment system for having an inefficient setup. They also find its acceleration lags, which creates an uninspiring driving experience.
One owner complained to Edmunds that the QX50 is a "gas hog."
Infiniti QX60
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MSRP: $51,200
The 2026 Infiniti XQ60 is not as comfortable as a three-row luxury SUV should be, according to disappointed reviewers. They also state that its overall driving experience left much to be desired.
They are particularly unhappy with the SUV's front seats, which they cite as offering subpar comfort for a luxury vehicle.
Consumer Reports says just 46% of QX60 drivers it surveyed would buy this vehicle in the future.
Toyota Corolla Cross
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MSRP: $24,135
The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross offers a bland driving experience while lacking the standard legroom of the rival SUVs in its class, reviewers warn.
They cite the Chevy Trailblazer and Mazda CX-30 as better small SUV options due to their fun driving experiences and upscale interiors.
One Corolla Cross owner complained on the Edmunds forum about a rattling noise from the engine, while another said the seating was "not comfortable at all."
Jeep Compass
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MSRP: $26,900
Reviewers criticize the 2025 Jeep Compass for its uncomfortable seats and frustrating control setup.
They also say this SUV offers poor overall value for its price point, which likely stems from the fact that Jeep has not redesigned this vehicle since 2017.
Reviewers state that other SUVs in its class offer better technology, fuel efficiency, and comfort for a better price.
One owner at Edmunds said the Compass is "nothing but problems," while another complained, "hate this vehicle."
Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEV
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MSRP: $60,490
Critics say the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEV, also known as the 4xe, is another SUV that suffers from a lack of comfort and value.
They also consider the Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEV to have a disappointing real-world fuel economy. Owners at Edmunds also complain about the vehicle's lack of fuel efficiency.
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Audi Q4 E-Tron
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MSRP: $49,800
Reviewers are none too thrilled with the 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron. They deride the luxury electric SUV for lacking cargo space compared to its SUV rivals.
In particular, they note that many non-luxury electric SUVs actually come with more cargo space and driving range for a similar price point.
They also take issue with the electric SUV's overly sensitive steering wheel controls.
One owner at Edmunds called the vehicle "overpriced" and lamented its lack of safety features.
Mazda CX-90 PHEV
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MSRP: $38,045
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV earns reviewers' praise for having a luxurious interior and sporty handling.
However, they also note that this midsize three-row SUV falls short of being the type of practical vehicle that consumers expect from its class.
In particular, they feel that the SUV's cramped third row and minuscule cargo space prevent it from being a suitable daily driver for shoppers.
One owner wrote at Edmunds that the vehicle was "beautiful, but not reliable." Another complained about the poor driving range in cold weather.
Bottom line
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There are currently many SUVs on the market. However, not all of them are worthy of a car shopper's time or money.
Buying a vehicle that many shoppers regret purchasing is not a wise money move for car owners. So, take the time to investigate your options before spending your hard-earned cash on a new SUV.
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