The average buyer now spends well over $49,000 on a new car, it’s understandable to feel like every vehicle on the market comes with an inflated price tag.
However, some models fail to offer enough value to justify their MSRPs even when considering inflation or their undeniable cool factor.
Regardless of your budget, every vehicle segment includes models that don’t quite measure up to their hefty sticker prices.
Some lack essential features, premium materials, sufficient power, or advanced technology. Others are simply outclassed by more affordable competitors that offer better car ratings, reviews, or overall performance.
In 2025, ensuring that you get the best value for your money is more critical than ever. To help you avoid overpaying, experts have highlighted some new models that don’t quite justify their price tags.
1. 2025 Audi Q7
- MSRP: Starting at $60,500
Michael Dominguez, a master mechanic certified professional with a degree in automotive technology from the University of Michigan, points to one luxury SUV that falls short of its $60,500 starting price.
“One model that immediately comes to mind is the Audi Q7,” said Dominguez.
“While it boasts luxury, the high cost of maintenance and minimal improvements from the previous year make it difficult to justify the elevated MSRP.
It’s outperformed by competitors like the BMW X5 and Lexus RX 350, both offering similar luxury amenities at a better value.”
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2. 2024 Cadillac Escalade
- MSRP: Starting at $81,895 and $87,595 for 2025 models
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade starts at $81,895, while the 2025 model’s price ranges from $87,595 to $116,395, all without a significant refresh.
That price hike alone makes it a questionable investment in Dominguez’s view, regardless of Consumer Reports’ findings.
“Though it comes with a lot of bells and whistles, it doesn’t necessarily offer more than the 2023 Chevy Tahoe, a significantly less expensive SUV with a similar engine and features,” he explained, referring to the Tahoe’s $54,200 starting price.
“For what you’re paying, you’re essentially splurging on the Cadillac name without receiving substantive improvements in performance or technology.”
3. 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- MSRP: Starting at $48,450
Liam Lucas, automotive expert and founder of Off Road Genius, doesn’t take issue with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class itself just its price.
While its base cost is close to the average price of a new vehicle, additional expenses such as tires, maintenance, and repairs push it well beyond entry-level luxury pricing.
“While it’s a luxury vehicle with high-end features, its price has seen a significant increase, outpacing its improvements,” he said. “The base model starts at over $40,000.
With added features, the price can easily reach $60,000, which is quite steep considering its competitors like the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series offer similar or better features for a lower or comparable price.”
4. 2024 Range Rover Sport
- MSRP: $83,600 and $83,700 to $182,325 for a 2025 model
Lucas also questions the value of the upcoming 2025 Range Rover Sport, which starts at $83,700 and soars to over $180,000. That kind of price tag is far from an average car purchase.
“While it’s a luxury SUV with off-road capabilities, competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee offer similar off-road prowess and luxury for a fraction of the cost,” he said.
The Grand Cherokee’s high-end Summit Reserve package starts at $71,535.
5. 2025 Bronco Raptor
- MSRP: Starting at $91,500
Robert Luterzo, an automotive engineer and editor at Automotive Widget, considers the Bronco Raptor to be “one of the most over-priced 4×4 vehicles out in the market this year.”
“Its focus on off-road performance could result in compromises when it comes to everyday practicality and comfort,” Luterzo said.
“The aggressive suspension setup and off-road tires might lead to a less comfortable on-road driving experience.
Also, the emphasis on off-road features might mean that specific convenience and luxury amenities found in other SUVs are either absent or offered as expensive optional packages.
For buyers who plan to use the vehicle primarily for daily commuting or family transportation, the sacrifices in comfort and practicality might outweigh the benefits.”
6. 2025 Rivian R1T
- MSRP: Starting at $71,700
Talha Atta, a mechanical engineer and editor at AutoGlobes, believes the Rivian R1T stands out as “today’s market’s most expensive EV all-wheel drive.”
He attributes its steep $71,700 starting price to limited production, preventing costs from coming down to a more reasonable level.
“As an electric pickup, the Rivian R1 caters to a relatively niche market, at least in its early stages,” Atta said. “This limited demand can result in higher production costs per unit, which can be passed on to the consumer through a higher price tag.”
7. 2024 BMW iX
- MSRP: $87,100 and $88,425 for 2025 models
Nick Robinson, a fifteen-year auto industry veteran and co-founder of Pick and Pull Sell Car, a marketplace specializing in used car parts, doesn’t believe the BMW iX justifies its steep price tag, which starts in the high $80,000s.
In his view, competitors such as the Tesla Model X, Audi e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQC provide significantly better value.
“The iX has a controversial design, a mediocre range of 300 miles and lackluster performance,” Robinson said.
“That’s kind of average when compared to other BMW models. Also, it does not justify its premium price tag or its luxury brand name and is not worth buying when there are better and cheaper alternatives on the market.”
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8. 2025 Toyota Sienna
- MSRP: Starting at $40,635
One of the most well-known names in the minivan segment recently made a full commitment to hybrid technology but in doing so, it may have compromised its overall value.
“The Toyota Sienna is overpriced,” said Melanie Musson, an automotive industry expert at AutoInsurance.org. “There aren’t many minivan manufacturers, and the Sienna has been one of the most reliable options for years.”
In 2020, Toyota made the decision to transition the entire Sienna lineup previously starting at $36,885 into a fully hybrid offering.
“Not only does this change make them more expensive, but it makes them less suitable for the needs of many minivan drivers,” Musson said.
“The small engine may help conserve gas when the van is empty, but if it’s loaded for kids’ sports or a family vacation, drivers are going to notice the extreme lack of power from the four cylinders.”