Despite their popularity, certain cars on the road manage to spark widespread disapproval. These are the vehicles that, regardless of their impressive mileage or cost-saving insurance benefits, many drivers would never consider owning. For some reason, they’ve become the ones consumers just love to hate.
Of course, traditional car reviews can only tell part of the story. Automotive journalists can break down a vehicle’s handling, acceleration, and interior comfort — and while all of that is undeniably important, it often falls short of revealing how enjoyable a car is to live with day to day.
After all, the excitement of sharp cornering and high speeds means little if the car isn’t genuinely satisfying to own. Even a solid test drive may not be enough to uncover the full ownership experience.
That’s where Consumer Reports’ annual owner satisfaction survey comes in. Each year, the organization asks its members whether they would buy or lease the same vehicle again if given the chance. The higher the percentage of owners who say yes, the more satisfying the car is considered to be.
So, without further ado, here are 10 of the most satisfying cars and 12 others that you should avoid, according to the latest Consumer Reports member survey released in late 2024.
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BMW i4
83% of Consumer Reports members who took part in the survey said they are happy with the BMW i4. This electric luxury car first came out in 2021 in two versions: the practical rear-wheel drive i4 eDrive40 with 340 horsepower, and the more powerful i4 M50, which had electric motors giving it 544 horsepower and power to all four wheels. The i4 M50 was also the first fully electric car from BMW’s M division.
In 2022, BMW added the i4 eDrive35, a cheaper version with a smaller 66 kWh battery and a single electric motor that produces 281 horsepower. The newest model is the i4 xDrive40, a four-wheel-drive version that was released in 2024 and gives 401 horsepower using electric motors.
Consumer Reports gave the i4 good marks in its testing and gave it a CR Recommended award. They were especially pleased with how the car performed and how reliable it is expected to be. Our own Chris Davies reviewed the BMW i4 M50 and really liked it.
He thought it was a great mix of strong performance and everyday usefulness — even though the higher price and shorter range (under 300 miles) were clear downsides. We were also impressed with the base BMW i4 when we first tested it in 2022. So, it makes sense that the i4 earned a place in Consumer Reports’ list of the 10 most satisfying vehicles.
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid
In 2023, Toyota’s RAV4 sold more than any other car in the U.S., except for large pickup trucks. It’s not just popular in America either — Australians are big fans too, with the 2024 model breaking monthly sales records there. With such strong popularity, it’s no shock that one of the RAV4 versions is among the most satisfying vehicles, according to Consumer Reports.
Toyota offers the RAV4 with gas engines and as a hybrid. People really like the hybrid model, with 83% of surveyed owners saying they would choose it again if they needed to buy or lease another car. It’s easy to understand why.
Even though it’s not the most thrilling car to drive, reviews often praise its usefulness. It has good fuel efficiency, all-wheel-drive, flexible features, and several trim options, making it a smart choice.
Although we haven’t tested the plug-in hybrid version — once called the RAV4 Prime — we did review the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE. Our reviewer, Adam Doud, found it to be a very practical SUV that offers great value.
The Plug-in Hybrid version has more power, with a total of 302 horsepower, which is a big jump from the Hybrid’s 219 horsepower. Still, the main strengths and appeal of the RAV4 are similar no matter which version you pick.
BMW X5
The second BMW on the list is the BMW X5, the company’s well-known mid-sized luxury SUV. In its current fourth generation, it’s one of the few BMW models built in the U.S., along with the smaller X3 and X4.
Like the BMW i4, the X5 is highly rated by Consumer Reports. BMW’s luxury SUV beat out other high-end competitors like the Land Rover Defender and Lincoln Nautilus, and it ranked first among all the mid-sized luxury SUVs the site has tested so far — even though Lincoln owners seem to be a bit more enthusiastic about their Nautiluses (we’ll get to that later). Still, a solid 83% of X5 owners said they would choose the same car again.
Another similarity between the X5 and the i4 is the number of available versions. These range from the basic sDrive40i and xDrive40i to the very expensive $127,000 X5 M Competition. While the high-performance M models — the X5 M60i and X5 M Competition — offer strong appeal with 523 and 617 horsepower, it’s likely that most of the owners who responded to the survey drive one of the more common versions, which offer a good mix of practicality, strong performance, and smooth handling. That being said, people who are willing to spend close to $100,000 on the X5 M60i will probably enjoy its V8 engine and speed, especially since we gave it an Editor’s Choice award in our review.
Lexus ES 300h
The last three vehicles all got the same result in the Consumer Reports survey, with 83% of owners saying they were happy with their cars. The Lexus ES 300h scores just a little higher: 84% of owners said they would buy it again, earning it seventh place on this list.
This mid-sized sedan from Lexus is another strong performer in Consumer Reports’ ratings. The hybrid version of this long-running and very successful four-door model topped the site’s list of luxury mid-sized cars and received a recommendation from them.
The ES 300h stands out because of its great fuel efficiency — Lexus estimates it can get 44 miles per gallon combined for the 2025 model. That’s a big plus, especially since there aren’t many hybrids in this class. Reviews have also praised the ES 300h’s smooth ride and high comfort level inside the cabin as big positives for the Japanese luxury car.
In our review of the gas-powered 2025 Lexus ES, we weren’t as impressed — reviewer Chris Davies thought the driving experience was too dull. Even so, he did mention the car’s comfort, user-friendly tech features, and spacious interior as strong points. Those strengths seem to matter a lot to owners, considering its ranking here. If those features are important to you, the ES 300h might be a great option.
Rivian R1S
The first of two Rivian trucks takes sixth place, with the same 84% owner satisfaction rating as the vehicles just before and after it. The R1S is only the second fully electric vehicle on this list so far. It’s very different from the BMW i4, though — the R1S is a large electric SUV with three rows of seats, first released in 2022.
Compared to most of the cars mentioned earlier, Consumer Reports isn’t very impressed with the R1S. Among the three-row electric SUVs the site tested, it ranked fourth and didn’t get a CR Recommended award. Even so, it’s important to point out that Consumer Reports might be the exception here. Most other sources agree that the R1S has great driving range, strong performance, and lots of everyday usefulness, which makes it a strong pick for people looking for a seven-seat electric vehicle.
Chris Davies really liked the R1S when he reviewed it in 2023. He said its stylish design, strong power, long battery life, and nice interior all worked together to make it feel “special” and “more than capable of holding up to traditional luxury players.”
Lexus NX 450h
The Lexus NX 450h also got an 84% satisfaction rating, just like the Lexus ES 300h and the all-electric Rivian R1S. But this one is a higher-end plug-in hybrid than the ES 300h, starting at around $62,000 and giving a solid 304 horsepower from its hybrid setup.
You can get the Lexus NX 450h with standard all-wheel drive or the slightly more expensive F Sport Handling version. It’s Lexus’ entry into the compact luxury SUV category, and it performs well. Consumer Reports placed it second in their late 2024 ranking of luxury compact SUVs. They especially liked how it drives and had high expectations for how satisfied owners would be.
We tested the F Sport Handling version in mid-2024 and found it had a good mix of comfort and handling. It also offered strong electric range, good fuel economy, and decent cargo space — all important things for someone looking for a plug-in hybrid SUV. Still, we thought the price, being over $60,000, was a bit high. Lexus’ modern reputation for being a bit boring showed up again too. Lexus does sell another version, the mild hybrid NX 350h, which we liked enough to give it the SlashGear Select award in January 2024. But it’s the plug-in 450h that really stood out to Consumer Reports members.
Lincoln Nautilus
In fourth place, with 86% of owners saying they’re happy with it, is the Lincoln Nautilus, another luxury SUV. This is Lincoln’s high-end mid-sized SUV, with space for five people and options that can push the price past $70,000. Since 2023, it has been available with gas or hybrid 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, around the same time production moved to China. The Nautilus is one of the few vehicles on this list that Consumer Reports doesn’t like as much as its owners do.
Consumer Reports ranks the 2025 Nautilus as the eighth-best among luxury mid-sized SUVs it has tested. Still, the site did like how it drives on regular roads, which is an area Lincoln has only recently improved.
Reviewers praised the 2024 model’s engine, how it handles, and how smooth the ride feels — all of which are much better than earlier versions. Writers have also praised its updated look, and we agree — it might be the best-looking SUV on this list.
We drove the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus in March 2024, and our writer Stephen Edelstein had similar thoughts to others who reviewed it. He said the 2024 Nautilus looks great, drives well, and has a high-end infotainment system that feels like it belongs in a more expensive SUV.
While it’s hard to say how many of the 86% of satisfied owners have this new model, it seems like the Nautilus is now a serious option among luxury SUVs.
Chevrolet Equinox EV
Starting the top three is the Chevrolet Equinox EV, one of several electric SUVs from Chevy. It’s one of the newest models on this list and came out in 2024. It stands out with two features that beat the Tesla Model 3: a low starting price of $35,000 and a strong 319-mile range — and it still fits five passengers.
At the time of writing, Consumer Reports is still testing the Equinox EV, but most car reviewers have reacted positively to Chevy’s new electric SUV. Reviews have praised its build quality and competitive price.
While it hasn’t been recognized for being thrilling to drive or having super strong performance, that doesn’t seem to be its goal. The Equinox EV is designed as a regular SUV — just with electric motors instead of a gas engine.
Michael Teo Van Runkle from SlashGear drove the Equinox EV earlier in 2024 and liked its driving range, roomy interior, and touchscreen-focused tech features. It looks like Chevy got things right with this electric SUV by offering solid quality and a fair price.
Consumer Reports members seem to agree: 88% of them said they would buy it again. As far as we know, it’s the least expensive electric car with more than 300 miles of range you can buy in the U.S., something Chevy is proud to mention.
Rivian R1T
The second Rivian to appear on Consumer Reports’ list of the 10 most satisfying cars — and the only pickup truck — is the Rivian R1T. Production for the R1T began in September 2021, a few months before the R1S. This gave Rivian the honor of being the first carmaker to sell a fully electric pickup truck.
Just like the R1S with three rows, the R1T hasn’t earned strong praise from Consumer Reports. One of the biggest concerns is its expected reliability, which is disappointing considering the base dual-motor version starts at $70,000 and the top trims go up to around $100,000.
Still, those concerns don’t seem to bother owners much. Most R1T owners told Consumer Reports in late 2024 that they are very happy with their trucks — about the same as owners of the Chevrolet Equinox EV.
When we tested the 2024 Rivian R1T Dual-Motor, we gave it an Editor’s Choice award. We liked its usefulness, high-end interior, and strong performance — even when compared to the quad-motor version. If you avoid loading it with expensive options, the dual-motor version of the R1T may qualify for federal tax credits in the U.S., which is a nice perk that helps with common worries like limited driving range or the current state of charging stations for electric vehicles.
Chevrolet Corvette
Most of the vehicles on this list have been smart, comfortable, and very practical picks, with their differences based on who they are best for. But the highest-rated car from Consumer Reports members breaks that pattern. It’s a powerful, mid-engine sports car. Yes, you read that right: the Chevrolet Corvette is the most-loved vehicle on the list.
And it’s not even close — the Corvette is the only car that got over 90%, with 92% of owners saying they would buy or lease one again. This car is a real competitor to high-end sports cars, offering 490 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque in the Corvette Stingray — going up to 495 hp and 470 lb-ft with the Z51 package. That gives it a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds, all starting under $80,000. That makes the Corvette C8 a great deal when you compare its price and power to mid-engine cars from companies like Lamborghini. So it’s no surprise that owners are so happy with it.
Even though the quick acceleration numbers grab attention, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray also handles extremely well. Our reviewer Cameron Aubernon found this out when he tested it earlier in 2024 — though for the best handling in corners, you’ll probably want to pay extra for Chevrolet’s special magnetic suspension. It might not seem like the most obvious winner, but it really earned its top spot.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry was the best-selling sedan in the U.S. in 2023 and is known as a dependable and low-cost vehicle.
But there’s a reason sedans aren’t as popular now as they used to be: A car like the Camry doesn’t really stand out when it comes to style or personality. That’s why many drivers think the Camry is dependable, affordable — and dull.
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Ram Pickup
The Ram Pickup was the third-best-selling vehicle in 2023, behind Ford F-Series trucks and the Chevy Silverado.
In a country where pickup trucks sell really well, the Ram is a favorite. But this truck doesn’t get as much passion from fans, especially when compared to how loyal Ford and Chevy truck buyers are.
Mini Cooper
Some people enjoy driving the Mini Cooper: Its small size makes it simple to handle or fit into tight parking spots in cities. Others are fans of the different look of the British car.
However, many drivers think the car just looks a bit too cute. Some people also get annoyed when they think they’ve found an empty parking space — only to get closer and realize there’s already a tiny Mini Cooper there.
Ford Flex
You might still spot a Ford Flex on the road, even though the last one was made in 2019.
You might understand why Ford stopped making the Flex when you see it: It looks like a mix between a minivan and a large, square station wagon.
Many drivers would rather choose the Ford Escape, which looks nicer and offers similar features.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler has been around for many years and has some qualities that make it different, like its ability to go off-road or the fact that you can take the doors off and enjoy driving with fresh air.
But it can look a little out of place when it’s driving around quiet neighborhoods or sitting in front of a local organic grocery store. In those places, a lot of people think the Wrangler doesn’t look that great.
BMW XM
BMW makes a lot of cars that look stylish or perform really well when driving.
Then there’s the BMW XM, which some people think doesn’t have what a BMW should have to match its $160,000 starting price.
“Everything about this car is awful,” lamented Reddit user CuriousTravlr. Reddit user shawizkid simply called it “absolutely atrocious.”
Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf was one of the first electric cars to come out, with the first models made in 2010.
Those early versions had a design that some people didn’t like, especially the strange-looking front grill.
The company has made changes to newer models, which now look more like regular sedans. But those updates still haven’t convinced everyone to change their minds.
Honda Civic
Like the Toyota Camry, the Honda Civic is a popular car. More than 200,000 of them were sold in 2023.
Like the Camry, people say the Civic is dependable and not too expensive, but many think its design is plain and not very exciting.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser was only made from 2001 to 2010, but you can still see some of these cars being driven today.
You can recognize a PT Cruiser by its unusual outside design, which gave many people a bad first impression. In fact, many still think of it as a terrible car.
Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y had a big year in 2023, with more than 385,000 cars sold. It was one of the five best-selling vehicles that year.
But problems at the company — like very long repair wait times compared to other carmakers — have made some buyers unhappy.
Tesla has gotten more criticism lately because of CEO Elon Musk’s behavior that many find upsetting. The bad feedback on the Cybertruck — which both experts and buyers have criticized — has made things worse.
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is known for being dependable. Strangely, that’s the reason a small group of people dislike it.
Some mechanics don’t like the Forester because it doesn’t break down often — and when it does, the parts are easy to get and repairs don’t cost too much.
That might be a good thing if you’re a driver, but not if your work depends on fixing cars.
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Any minivan
It doesn’t matter if it’s a Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, or any other kind: Something about minivans makes people feel very strongly about whether they like or dislike them.
“When SUVs rose in popularity, it all but killed the desire for minivans,” said Reddit user Varekai79. “Minivans have never been cool, but the presence of a cooler alternative, even if it’s less practical, sealed the deal.”
