Consumer Reports Has 3 Popular 2021 SUVs to Avoid
There are plenty of 2021 SUVs to pick if you want a brand new vehicle. There’s the 2021 Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride, and more. But not all SUVs are created equally, and there are a few options to avoid.
Popular 2021 SUVs to avoid
According to Everyman Driver, there are a few popular 2021 SUV options that need to be avoided for better alternatives. A few of the best SUV models are quietly flying under the radar when they could make you happier.
This list includes a few small SUVs, mid-size options with two and three rows, and larger SUVs. Everyman Driver actually has 18 options on his list that’s derived from Consumer Reports, but we will condense it to include a few of the most interesting picks.
1. Avoid the 2021 Ford Escape
The 2021 Ford Escape is mentioned as the first popular SUV to avoid. The Ford Escape shares a lot of components with the Bronco Sport, so keep that in mind. But the Escape begins around $24,885 and lacks what rivals provide at this price.
It has a below-average fuel economy. Consumer Reports only managed to get 26 mpg combined during their fuel-economy test. It has a below-average reliability rating of one out of five due to previous models having transmission problems.
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The interior is a bit loud but has agile handling. The seats aren’t the most comfortable, and the ride is a little firm. Also, the brake pedal is a bit sensitive and takes a little getting used to.
Consider the 2021 Mazda CX-5 instead. It begins around $25,370, but the extra price is worth it for the smooth ride, quiet cabin, and comfortable interior. It has a high owner satisfaction rating but has a poor fuel economy compared to rivals. It gets about 24 mpg combined.
2. Avoid the 2021 Honda Passport
The 2021 Honda Passport is another popular SUV to avoid, according to Consumer Reports. It has an MSRP of about $32,970. During their driving test, they found that it only gets about 21 mpg combined.
The Honda Passport does have agile handling, but it’s a bit slow to respond. The gear selector is a little distracting because it’s tricky to see while driving. Also, it has a low-reliability rating of two out of five.
Consider the 2021 Ford Edge instead. It begins at around $31,250 and gets about 22 mpg combined. It has an improved acceleration, a smooth ride, a quiet cabin, and a premium feel. Plus, it comes with more standard safety features like blind-spot warning that rivals make optional.
3. Avoid the 2021 Nissan Armada
The 2021 Nissan Armada is a popular large SUV to avoid. It begins at about $48,500 and only got about 14 mpg combined during Consumer Reports testing. It has a bouncy ride with clumsy handling. The steering is slow, and you’ll notice the body roll.
The Nissan Armada has a spacious and luxurious cabin, but the controls feel outdated. On a positive note, it can tow up to 8,500 pounds and has tons of standard safety features. However, it has a low predicted reliability score of two out of five.
Consumer Reports recommends going for the 2021 Ford Expedition instead, and it has an MSRP of about $49,025. It gets about 16 mpg combined but has a quiet interior and an easy-to-use infotainment system. But the Expedition is also known for having a stiff ride.