Consumer Reports names Chrysler 200, Discovery Sport, Lexus NX and Kia Sedona worst of the year
Consumer Reports has listed the Chrysler 200, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Lexus NX 200t/300h and Kia Sedona as its worst-performing vehicles in its annual roundup.
Consumer Reports has named the Chrysler 200, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Lexus NX 200t/300h and Kia Sedona as the worst vehicles in its latest annual review, separating them from the rest of the field for poor performance in key categories.
Why these models were singled out
The Chrysler 200’s appearance on the list is notable given the model’s recent redesign, which brought improved styling and interior quality. Despite these updates, Consumer Reports found the four-cylinder engine noisy and unrefined, the gearbox hesitant and the handling awkward. Rear-seat space was also criticised for being too cramped for adults, limiting its appeal as a family saloon.
Land Rover’s Discovery Sport, another new entry, was marked down for its engine and gearbox performance. The publication described the engine as lacking responsiveness and the gearbox as slow to react. Handling was described as lumbering, and the infotainment system was considered dated compared to rivals in the premium SUV segment.
Lexus’s NX 200t and 300h SUVs, both strong sellers, failed to impress the testers. Consumer Reports compared the NX directly to Toyota’s RAV4, suggesting the Toyota was the better execution of the compact SUV formula. The Lexus was criticised for some interior materials and for an infotainment touchpad that was difficult to use safely while driving.
Kia Sedona falls short in the minivan segment
The Kia Sedona minivan was also listed among the worst, with the report highlighting a harsh ride, lacklustre handling and a sense of cheapness in the cabin. Interior flexibility, a key selling point for family buyers, was not up to the standard set by rivals. This places the Sedona at a disadvantage in a segment where practicality and comfort are priorities.
What it means for buyers
Consumer Reports’ annual rankings are widely referenced by US buyers and can influence showroom traffic. A poor showing may impact sales, especially for models that are otherwise new to market or heavily promoted. For those considering these vehicles, the magazine’s findings suggest looking closely at rivals before making a decision.
For more on Consumer Reports’ best-rated vehicles, see our coverage of the Buick Regal’s high ranking.
