In today’s fast-paced automotive industry, competition is fiercer than ever, and not every car makes the cut. Some fall short on reliability, while others lack essential features or simply can’t justify their price tags.
Today, we’re discussing some of the new sedans you might want to steer clear of in 2024. We’ll explain why each car has earned its spot on this list.
1. 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage G4
The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 is one of the cheapest cars on the market, boasting an impressive fuel economy of 35 to 41 MPG, depending on whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway. But that’s where the good news ends.
This subcompact sedan shows its low price in its performance and interior quality. Under the hood is a puny 1.2 L 3-cylinder engine producing just 78 horsepower. Inside, you’ll find plenty of cheap materials, noisy engine sounds, poor soundproofing, subpar build quality, and a disappointing reliability rating.
With a base price under $20,000, it might seem like a steal. But in reality, you’re getting less than what you pay for. For the same price, you could find a much better used car.
2. 2024 Toyota Mirai
The 2024 Toyota Mirai is a head-turner with its striking design, impressive performance, and zero carbon footprint. However, it’s not the car you should consider buying. Why? It’s just too ahead of its time.
The Mirai runs on hydrogen fuel cells, but with fewer than 100 refueling stations across the US, mostly in California, it’s virtually unusable outside specific areas.
If you try to sell it later, don’t be shocked if its value plummets faster than your phone battery on a bad day. Even Toyota admits that the hydrogen-fueled Mirai hasn’t been a success, but they’re not ready to give up on it.
3. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta
The Seventh Generation Jetta, made in Mexico for the US market, boasts great fuel economy and good cabin space, but it doesn’t excite with its bland styling, lackluster performance, and a turbocharged 1.5 L 4-cylinder engine with just 158 horsepower.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the ride can feel sleepy. While its low starting price and impressive fuel economy might seem tempting, reliability is a major deal breaker.
Consumer Reports gave the 2024 Jetta a predicted reliability score of just one out of five, citing issues with the transmission, climate control, brakes, electrical systems, and in-car electronics. Many owners were frustrated by the dealership’s claim that the transmission’s grinding noise was “normal.”
4. 2024 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu offers a single powertrain: a 160-horsepower turbocharged 1.5 L 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT. It has an appealing design, a comfortable ride, and a nimble chassis, but that’s about it. The Malibu’s interior is neither the quietest nor the fanciest, with plenty of subpar materials.
It also lacks refined infotainment and versatility, and its standard features are limited. Consumer Reports advises avoiding the Chevy Malibu, citing poor visibility, build quality, reliability issues, and a lack of standard safety features. Plus, reports suggest GM will discontinue the Malibu after the 2024 model year.
5. 2024 Nissan Sentra
The 2024 Nissan Sentra is a tempting choice among affordable sedans, offering plenty of features and up-to-date safety tech. However, it’s hindered by a weak engine, outdated infotainment, and longer-than-average braking distances.
Its 2 L 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT produces 149 horsepower, resulting in sluggish acceleration and mediocre handling. The engine is noisy, and rear headroom is tight for taller passengers.
Common issues include subpar CVT performance, faulty brakes, and odd noises while driving. If performance and reliability are your priorities, you might want to look elsewhere.
6. 2024 Maserati Quattroporte
The Maserati Quattroporte, Maserati’s flagship sedan, combines opulent luxury and performance with a Ferrari-sourced engine. Starting at $141,000, the 2024 Quattroporte might seem enticing, but here’s the catch: you can find it for $33,000 or less now.
The Quattroporte’s exhilarating performance and exquisite craftsmanship are undeniable, but keeping it in top condition can be astronomically expensive.
Its complex electrical systems and proprietary technology often lead to hefty repair bills, and these cars do break down frequently.
7. 2024 Lexus LS
Debuting in 1990 as a rival to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Lexus LS has been Lexus’s flagship sedan for decades. However, the 2024 LS fails to deliver the luxury and performance that previous models were known for.
It lacks the handling prowess and V8 engine option available in competitors like the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series. Though the Lexus LS500 starts at around $80,000, adding features like hand-pleated interior trim and 28-way adjustable massage seats pushes the price over $100,000.
While Lexus is renowned for reliability, few buyers would choose a luxury sedan based solely on this factor. Consider opting for a used previous-generation LS for better value.
8. 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The redesigned C-Class builds on its sporty reputation with a polished powertrain and honed handling, but drivers are frustrated by its overly complicated controls and spongy brake pedal.
The C-Class made this list because Consumer Reports expects it to be much less reliable than its peers. It’s placed at the bottom among similar models, with primary issues including electrical system breakdowns.
One owner reported the car locking up and shutting down at 4,000 miles, with the dealership blaming a faulty motherboard. NHTSA has issued recalls related to electrical and fuel system problems.
9. 2024 Maserati Ghibli
Yes, another Maserati. Despite its high price tag, the 2024 Maserati Ghibli misses the mark on basic amenities, with tight rear space and an interior that doesn’t justify its six-figure price.
The base trim is underpowered, and despite its racing heritage and luxury appeal, the Ghibli doesn’t live up to expectations.
The stylish Italian design and captivating exhaust sound are great, but the Ghibli is easily outclassed by more luxurious options at a lower price.
10. 2024 Nissan Versa
Starting at $17,500, the Nissan Versa is one of the most affordable cars in 2024. While its low price might be tempting, the Versa is too basic and underpowered. It features a 122-horsepower 4-cylinder engine with a CVT transmission, known for various issues.
The driver’s seat lacks support, and rear headroom is tight compared to previous models. Steering is vague, and interior quality is uneven, even for a budget car.
Though Nissan has improved CVT reliability in the latest Versa, it’s still far from reliable. Owners have reported drivetrain and electronics issues. You’d be better off looking elsewhere.
That’s a wrap for today. Let us know in the comments about the worst car you’ve owned. Thanks for reading, and see you in the next post!
