2026’s Most Unreliable New Cars Trigger Alerts—10 Models Consumer Reports Says To Avoid

When shopping for a new vehicle, metrics like horsepower, fuel economy, and tech features grab attention. But reliability tends to matter most once the novelty wears off. A car with a great spec sheet that spends time at the dealership is not a smart long-term buy. Routine maintenance is expected. Surprise breakdowns are not. Consumer Reports’ annual reliability survey flagged these 10 models as the lowest-scoring picks for predicted reliability in 2026.

Understanding the Reliability Ratings

Consumer Reports’ annual reliability survey flagged 10 models as the lowest-scoring picks for predicted reliability in 2026. That does not mean every example will be a problem. But it is a clear warning for buyers who plan to keep a vehicle beyond the first few years. Reliability directly affects long-term ownership costs, downtime, and peace of mind, factors that matter far more than a spec sheet once the new-car smell fades.

1. GMC Acadia

The Acadia’s reliability issues are not new. Transmission complaints have followed the nameplate since its 2007 model year debut, with some early models reportedly failing before 100,000 miles. The 2013 model year drew complaints about leaks and thermostat problems, and the 2018 version was criticized for sloppy shift timing. The 2024 model has drawn broader quality concerns that continue to drag the nameplate down.

2. Rivian R1T

The R1T carries symbolic weight as the first mass-produced electric pickup sold in the U.S., but build quality has been a persistent issue. The 2022 model alone has been recalled 11 times, with problems covering safety hardware, software, and fit-and-finish. Owners have also reported HVAC glitches and real-world range that can land between 270 and 300 miles depending on conditions, well below what some buyers expect based on advertised figures.

3. Chevrolet Blazer EV

The Blazer EV’s launch got off to a rough start. The 2024 model faced a temporary stop-sale tied to major software problems, and one long-term test vehicle reportedly showed 23 fault codes during diagnostics. Later models have continued to draw complaints, including shifting-related problems, unexpected “turtle mode” activations, and charging performance that has proven slower or less consistent than buyers anticipate.

4. Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Plug-in hybrids depend on smooth transitions between gas and electric power, and the CX-90 PHEV has struggled with exactly that. Reported issues include abrupt power-source transitions and software-related recalls affecting more than 100,000 vehicles. Some owners have also reported power loss while driving. Fuel economy has disappointed relative to the expectations most buyers bring to a plug-in hybrid purchase.

5. Genesis GV60

The GV60’s biggest controversy centers on Hyundai Motor Group’s Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU). Owners have reported charging failures tied to the ICCU, and in some cases, loss of power while driving. Range has also been a talking point. The EPA estimate sits at 235 miles depending on trim, but cold weather can push real-world numbers closer to 160 miles for some owners.

6. Mazda CX-90 (Gas)

The standard gas-powered CX-90 carries its own concerns separate from the PHEV version. The NHTSA has opened an investigation into steering complaints that owners frequently describe as “sticky steering.” Additional owner-reported issues include infotainment connectivity problems and side-mirror vibration at highway speeds, pointing to quality control gaps that Consumer Reports flagged in its 2026 reliability data.

7. Kia EV9

The EV9 has drawn attention for a particularly unsettling complaint: the digital instrument cluster going completely blank while the vehicle is in motion. Some owners report the only fix is shutting the car down and leaving it locked for around 20 minutes to force a reset. A number of owners have also reported being locked out of their vehicles, adding another layer of frustration to an otherwise capable three-row electric SUV.

8. Kia EV6

The ICCU problem surfaces here as well. Defects tied to the integrated charging control unit have been linked to 12-volt battery charging failures and, in some cases, sudden power loss while driving. Some drivers have reported their vehicles slowing dramatically or coming to a complete stop unexpectedly. These incidents contributed to Consumer Reports flagging the EV6 among the least reliable new models for 2026.

9. Honda Prologue

The GM-co-developed Prologue has been cited for early-life reliability issues, including failed charging reservations, suspension noises, and reports of sudden braking while reversing. For a vehicle carrying Honda’s badge and a price point that ranges from near $50,000 to nearly $60,000 depending on trim, the early ownership experience has fallen short of what the brand’s reputation typically suggests. Consumer Reports included it among the 10 least reliable picks for 2026.

10. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The Pacifica Hybrid has faced multiple recall actions and fire risk concerns over the years. One major recall covered 2017 through 2023 models over a transmission wiring connector defect affecting approximately 76,000 vehicles globally. Serious owner complaints have also included engine shutdowns, limp mode incidents, and concerns related to the high-voltage battery system, making it one of the more troubling entries on this list.

The Bottom Line

Appearing on a least-reliable list does not guarantee a bad ownership experience. But reliability history has a direct impact on long-term costs, downtime, and peace of mind. Before signing anything, recall history and durability deserve a hard look alongside price, features, and styling. The most important question remains the simplest one: Can you depend on it?

Souces:
10 Least Reliable Cars of 2026.” Consumer Reports, December 2025.
“GMC Acadia Loses Consumer Reports Recommended Rating.” GM Authority, December 2025.
“Mazda CX-90 Under Federal Investigation for Sticky Steering Issues.” Road and Track, January 2026.
“Stellantis Recalls 76,000 Plug-In Hybrid Minivans Over Engine Issue.” Reuters, January 2023.
“Our Chevy Blazer EV Has 23 Problems After Only 2 Months.” Edmunds, December 2023.