While some manufacturers such as Ford, for example, manage to improve the quality of their new models, a group of 8 cars falls off the prestigious list of recommendations of Consumer Reports (CR). The reason is below average reliability, established after analyzing the large-scale study from 2025, which covered more than 380,000 vehicles. For the European market, where reliability is a key factor when buying, these data are a serious warning signal.
CR evaluates reliability based on 20 specific problem areas, with the greatest weight given to critical and expensive to repair components such as the engine, transmission, drive system and battery/charging in electric vehicles.
Among the 8 cars that no longer enjoy the trust of Consumer Reports, several models of brands that are mass and extremely popular on the Old Continent stand out. These cars often share platforms and technologies with other European equivalents, making the data even more relevant to our consumers.
The dropout of models like the Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a particularly worrying signal
This is because this electric car is strategically important for the electric vehicle market across Europe. Problems with new electric cars often stem from the complexity of software, on-board electronics and charging systems, which CR gives special weight to in its assessment.
Audi, with two of its best-selling models - the A5 and Q5 - on the blacklist, risks serious damage to its reputation. In premium brands, where expectations for excellence are extremely high, issues with infotainment (a traditional weakness of the VW Group) and electrical systems can lead to an expensive and frustrating experience for owners.
The Nissan Rogue (X-Trail in Europe) loses its recommendation, which once again draws attention to the long-standing problems with the brand's CVT transmissions. Although Nissan constantly claims to have improved these components, owner data shows that old flaws still weigh.
The Volkswagen Taos, although not sold in Europe, is a car based on the MQB platform, sharing components with the best-selling Volkswagen T-Roc
The Taos also shares components with the SEAT Ateca and Skoda Karoq and is an example of how new, compact SUVs with small, turbocharged engines and Volkswagen's DSG gearboxes continue to struggle with reliability in their early years. Here are the eight models that CR does not recommend due to their reliability:
What does this mean for the buyer?
Losing a recommendation from Consumer Reports does not mean that the car is dangerous, but it is a clear warning that the likelihood of annoying, expensive or time-consuming problems occurring within the first few years is higher than average.
CR collects data from real owners, which gives an unbiased picture of the long-term durability of the car. Buying a model from the “black list“ requires increased attention to warranty terms and preparedness for potential service visits.