11 New Cars Under $45,000 You’ll Probably Regret Buying

With so many new vehicles to choose from, picking the right one can be daunting. Unfortunately, not all of the automotive industry's latest offerings are worth consumers' time and attention.

That's why drivers should carefully consider their options before purchasing a new vehicle, just like they would shop around to find a cheaper auto insurance policy to avoid throwing away their money.

From poor performance and reliability to meager fuel economy and lackluster comfort, here are 11 new vehicles that shoppers should steer clear of in 2025.

MSRP: $22,495

While an affordable option, some reviewers have lambasted the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta for having sluggish acceleration and confusing infotainment screen controls.

Additionally, the 2025 Jetta has been criticized for having poor interior quality and lacking overall value, especially compared to the other sedans in its class, such as the Hyundai Elantra and the Honda Civic.

Consumer Reports gave the 2025 Jetta a reliability score of 25/100.

MSRP: $27,190

The 2025 Kia K5 is a stylish sedan available at a cheap price. Unfortunately, reviewers have criticized its underwhelming engine. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine takes an agonizing 8.5 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph.

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received numerous complaints about the K5, ranging from issues with its electrical system and wheels to its engine and powertrain.

MSRP: $31,900

Consumer Reports gave the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado a pitiful reliability score of 15/100.

Some reviewers criticized the 2025 Colorado for the sound of its engine with lackluster power. They also noted that the pickup truck's rear seats are cramped. Consumers have also complained that the 2025 Colorado is unreliable, has poor manufacturing quality, and has technology issues.

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MSRP: $32,050

The 2025 Nissan Frontier has received criticism from reviewers for having steering issues, a cramped rear seat, and bizarre layouts for infotainment screens, menus, and other controls.

Some consumers also criticized this pickup truck for having poor overall quality. Consumer Reports gave the Nissan Frontier a measly 27/100 for reliability.

MSRP: $32,690

Consumers have criticized the 2025 Jeep Wrangler for having poor manufacturing quality and engine issues. Additionally, Consumer Reports has given this SUV a reliability score of just 27/100.

The NHTSA has also received a complaint about the 2025 Wrangler due to problems with its service brakes and electrical system.

MSRP: $36,495

The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee received a dismal reliability score of 22/100 from Consumer Reports. Some reviewers have also criticized this SUV for offering poor value. They noted that adding popular features to the Grand Cherokee, which comes standard on other vehicles in this segment, can be expensive.

Consumers have also complained that the Grand Cherokee suffers from poor manufacturing quality and reliability issues.

MSRP: $37,070

Some reviewers have criticized the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder for lacking cargo space compared to its rivals. They also noted that the three-row SUV's front seats were uncomfortable and found its acceleration to be lackluster.

Consumers have reported issues with the SUV's infotainment system, steering wheel, transmission, and manufacturing quality.

MSRP: $38,400

Consumer Reports has given the 2025 GMC Canyon a dismal reliability score of 15/100.

Some reviewers noted that the 2025 Canyon paled in comparison to other trucks in its segment, such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma, which were both recently redesigned and offer a fresher take on the midsize pickup. In addition, drivers have cited seat discomfort.

MSRP: $38,810

The 2025 Ford F-150 can seat up to six people and has a noteworthy 13,500-pound towing capacity. However, some reviewers have criticized its interior storage spots for lacking versatility and spaciousness.

The NHTSA has also issued recalls for the 2025 F-150 due to an oil leak and a powertrain issue that increases the vehicle's risk of crashing.

MSRP: $39,035

Consumer Reports has given the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L a poor reliability score of 22/100. Some reviewers have criticized this three-row SUV for being an impractical daily driver.

Citing issues with its on-road demeanor, they stated that families who don't need an SUV with considerable off-roading and towing capabilities should consider the Hyundai Palisade or Toyota Grand Highlander instead.

MSRP: $42,500

The 2025 Genesis G70 has received criticism from some reviewers for limited backseat space, a small trunk, and a lackluster fuel economy. With a fuel rating of only 19 mpg combined, other luxury sedans leave the G70 in the dust.

Additionally, Consumer Reports has given the G70 a reliability score of 29/100.

Consumers purchasing a new vehicle in 2025 don't want to throw their hard-earned money away on a lemon. That's why avoiding vehicles with ongoing reliability issues, such as the Nissan Pathfinder, which has average transmission repair costs between $4,000 and $4,600, can be a smart money move for car owners.

In the long run, avoiding vehicles with notoriously unreliable maintenance histories can help you hold onto more of your money long-term.