2025's Most Disappointing Cars According to Drivers

Discover the top 3 cars of the 2025 model year that fell short of expectations, as reported by owners and experts. Includes QX50, Model Y, and Atlas Cross Sport.

Buying a brand-new car is an act of trust. You invest in a brand’s promise, in technology, and in the driving experience you’re told to expect. But for some drivers, the excitement fades quickly. Based on data from Consumer Reports and CAR Magazine, these are three of the most disappointing cars released in the 2024–2025 sales cycle.

Infiniti QX50 (2025) – a premium SUV without the payoff

Launched in fall 2024, the 2025 Infiniti QX50 aimed to impress. But owners quickly found flaws that overshadowed its sleek looks. Consumer Reports revealed one of the lowest satisfaction scores in its class, with common complaints about weak acceleration, poor real-world fuel economy, and a clunky user interface.

The engine—featuring variable compression technology—sounded innovative on paper. In practice, it underdelivered in both power and efficiency. And while the cabin feels upscale, it doesn’t mask the vehicle’s disjointed driving dynamics.

Tesla Model Y (2025) – high-tech, low satisfaction

Tesla’s facelifted Model Y, internally dubbed “Juniper,” began reaching customers in March 2025. Packed with smart features and futuristic flair, the Model Y continues to lead in tech—but owners are losing patience.

As CAR Magazine reports, the ride is harsh, the steering too sharp, and the handling tiring over time. Add ongoing concerns about build quality and software reliability, and the Model Y starts to look more frustrating than futuristic. Innovation alone isn’t enough—it must be paired with comfort and consistency.

Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport (2025) – functional but forgettable

Available since early 2025, the latest Atlas Cross Sport brings updated styling but little else to spark excitement. Owners have reported a lack of driving engagement, with Consumer Reports noting that only 38% would buy it again—a sobering stat for a mainstream SUV.

The problem? While it's reliable and practical, it simply doesn’t evoke much feeling behind the wheel. It's a car that "just works"—but that’s not enough anymore.

Final thoughts: The cost of unmet expectations

These models show how quickly a gap can grow between promise and reality. In the 2025 model year, disappointment didn’t come from major breakdowns—it came from the absence of connection. In today’s market, where driver experience matters more than ever, emotional letdowns can be just as damaging as mechanical flaws.