Let’s face it: the car market is a hodgepodge of distinct car makes and models that may or may not serve your needs. If you’re in the market for a car, then surely you’re looking for a good deal and also a car that you can count on when you need it most. Well, look no further — we’ve compiled a handy list of the 10 best-rated and worst-rated cars ever made to set you on the right track.
1. Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is widely recognized for significantly innovating the EV market in the wake of several high-profile failed attempts that came before it. Boasting impressive range, performance and technology, drivers regularly tout the cutting-edge driving experience offered by the original Tesla.
2. Honda Civic
An enticing blend of fuel efficiency and performance with an alluring modern design, the Honda Civic has always been celebrated for its robust features and versatility. From its sporty models to eco-friendly hybrids, the Civic has amassed a loyal following due to its reputation for offering a smooth ride, impressive safety features, and advanced technology.
Photo by Jorge Simmons-Valenzuela
3. Ford Mustang
This unparalleled symbol of American automotive prowess is renowned for its powerful engine and unmistakable aesthetic. Car enthusiasts regularly praise the Mustang for delivering a unique blend of power, handling, and affordability in tandem with that classic muscle car look.
4. Porsche 911
This classic sports car is a fan-favourite among car enthusiasts and it’s easy to see why. Celebrated for its outstanding performance, handling, and iconic look, the Porsche 911 often serves as a benchmark of what sports cars are capable of in both style and performance. This product of automotive excellence offers a driving experience unlike any other.
5. BMW 3 Series
Recognized for its unmatched luxury, versatile driving experience, and a slew of advanced features, the BMW 3 Series is not to be overlooked. Consistently ranked among the top compact luxury cars, the BMW 3 Series maintains a pristine reputation for offering drivers an impressive balance between comfort and performance.
Alexander Migl on Wikimedia Commons
6. Toyota Corolla
We all know the Toyota Corolla for its combination of fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability. The Corolla has consistently garnered top ratings among families and commuters alike, who have praised its longevity and low maintenance costs. It's no surprise the Corolla has sold over 50 million units worldwide since it was introduced in 1966.
7. Mazda MX-5 Miata
Unbelievably fun to drive, as well as reliable and affordable — what more could you ask for? This lightweight roadster is renowned for offering a pure driving experience that drivers just can’t get enough of. Its agile handling and responsive performance make it a highly-rated and celebrated car by car enthusiasts and casual drivers alike.
MercurySable99 on Wikimedia Commons
8. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Often cited for its best-in-class luxury, comfort, and robust technology, the Mercedes-Benz S-class is no doubt a favourite among car enthusiasts. This flagship model in the impressive Mercedes repertoire is a worthy representative of automotive excellence, particularly when it comes to providing drivers with a smooth ride, advanced safety features and breathtaking interior.
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9. Subaru Outback
Outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a reliable and practical car can look no further: the Subaru Outback has you covered. Known for its all-wheel drive capability and distinctly rugged design, the Subaru Outback has regularly been the subject of praise, especially when it comes to its safety record and off-road prowess.
10. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The definition of fun and functional, this celebrated hot hatch roadster is often cited for its unique driving experience. Boasting impressive performance, pristine interiors and a unique blend of sporty and practical, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is deserving of its esteemed reputation.
1. Pontiac Aztek
Known primarily for its uniquely tasteless design and limited build quality, the Pontiac Aztek is often cited as one of the most notorious flops in the history of automobiles. Along with its off-putting look, the car is also plagued by a number of mechanical issues, which ultimately dismayed any prospective buyers.
Alexander Migl on Wikimedia Commons
2. Yugo GV
This infamous product of Yugoslav ingenuity has served as a punching bag in the automotive industry for decades. Regularly cited for its poor build quality, mechanical issues, and underwhelming performance, the Yugo GV has gained an unshakeable reputation as being one of the worst cars ever made.
3. Ford Pinto
The automotive industry was shaken to its core when it was revealed that Ford engaged in irresponsible cost-cutting measures when making the Pinto. The resulting fallout upon the discovery of the Pinto’s tendency to catch fire in rear-end collisions was enough to seal the car’s fate, ultimately rendering its existence nothing more than a cautionary tale of corporate negligence.
Michael Barera on Wikimedia Commons
4. Chevrolet Corvair
As outlined in Ralph Nader’s famous book, “Unsafe At Any Speed,” the Chevrolet Corvair is most notable for its poorly designed and fatal handling. The vehicle's flawed rear-engine design was the culprit, as it contributed to the Corvair’s untenable instability and tendency to roll over, ultimately stunting its sales and damaging Chevrolet’s reputation.
Greg Gjerdingen on Wikimedia Commons
5. AMC Gremlin
Although a car once owned in their younger days by future US presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, the AMC Gremlin is most notable for its strange design, lackluster performance, and underwhelming build quality. Even as the compact, economical choice, the AMC Gremlin was nothing short of an unmitigated disaster.
Joost J. Bakker on Wikimedia Commons
6. Reliant Robin
A notorious case of style over substance, this three-wheeled car (yes, you read that right) greatly suffered from safety and stability issues. Despite the unique design, the Reliant Robin had a tendency to tip over due to its quirky design features.
Dietmar Rabich on Wikimedia Commons
7. DeLorean DMC-12
Although fondly remembered for its prominent appearance in all three “Back to The Future” films, the DeLorean DMC-12 was not nearly as impressive in real life as its depiction on the big screen. Plagued by a slew of performance issues including dismal power and lacking reliability, the DeLorean is unfortunately nothing more than an icon pop culture relic.
8. Chrysler PT Cruiser
The target of relentless scorn due to its odd retro design, abysmal performance, and underwhelming build quality, Chrysler’s infamous PT Cruiser is no doubt one of the worst-rated cars in history. Although the car saw some initial appeal due to its unique design, the novelty quickly wore off as the car's infamous shortcomings were brought to light, resulting in a steep decline in sales.
Charles01 on Wikimedia Commons
9. Hummer H2
Suffering from an over-the-top build, atrocious fuel economy and general impracticality, this military-inspired sport utility vehicle quickly became the subject of much scorn and ridicule. The vehicle's infamous bulkiness and poor environmental record inspired a slew of criticism, ultimately making it nothing more than a symbol of automotive excess.
10. Cadillac Cimarron
This notoriously underwhelming equivalent to the Chevrolet Cavalier is often cited as a prime example of badge engineering gone wrong. Badge engineering is the practice of rebranding a car as something fresh and new, and in the case of the Cimarron, it failed miserably. Lacking the signature luxury and performance that the Cadillac name is known for, the Cimarron underdelivered on all fronts while being sold at double the price of its identical counterpart.
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