10 Cars to Avoid Purchasing in 2024: Better Alternatives to Consider
When it comes to cars, some are simply meant to get you from point A to point B. Not everyone is a driving enthusiast or cares about build quality and on-board tech. But what if I told you that you might be missing out on something great? Let’s take the Toyota Corolla, for example. Sure, it’s cheap and reliable, just like most of its rivals. And yes, it’s popular. But sometimes, there’s a new kid in town that steals the spotlight.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of 10 cars you should avoid purchasing in 2024 because there are better alternatives out there. This list is not ranked, so here are our recommendations:
1. Ford Mustang Mach-E
The fully-electric Mustang Mach-E has been gaining popularity since its debut in 2019. It’s a strong contender in the compact BEV crossover segment, second only to the Tesla Model Y in terms of sales. However, with carmakers like Hyundai, Kia, and VW entering the market with their own environmentally friendly crossovers, the Mach-E faces tough competition.
If you’re considering the Mustang Mach-E, be prepared to spend at least $42,995 for the entry-level Select specification, and up to $59,995 for the flagship GT spec. While it’s a solid car with good performance, the Model Y from Tesla offers more in terms of individualization, passenger and cargo space, infotainment system, overall tech, and the advantage of Tesla’s charging network.
In fact, Tesla is set to release an updated version of the Model Y soon, which will further highlight its superiority. If you want the best pseudo-premium electric compact crossover, it’s worth waiting for the 2025MY Tesla Model Y or considering the current 2024 Model Y. The Mustang Mach-E wouldn’t even be my third choice.
In conclusion, don’t settle for less when there are better alternatives available. Explore your options and make an informed decision when purchasing a car in 2024.
128,000 People Can’t Be Wrong: Why You Should Buy a Toyota Camry Instead of a Nissan Altima
In 2023, a staggering 128,000 people made the smart choice and bought a Nissan Altima. That’s a significant number considering the population of Wyoming. Imagine if almost a quarter of everyone living in Wyoming drove an Altima – it’s quite a sight.
Now, don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing inherently wrong with the Altima. It’s a decent-looking mid-size sedan that starts at just $26,000 – a reasonable price. However, for the same starting price, you can get yourself a 2024 Toyota Camry, which is a better car overall. The Camry offers more power, better safety features, and improved fuel efficiency.
If you’re patient, you can wait for the 2025 Camry, but even the current 2024 model is impressive. In my opinion, it’s also more aesthetically pleasing than the Altima, but that’s subjective.
The numbers speak for themselves – over 290,000 people in the U.S. bought a Toyota Camry last year. Join the ranks and choose the Camry over the Altima.
Upgrade to the Latest Generation: Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla
Let’s clear up any confusion right away – not all popular cars are the best in their class all the time. Sometimes, newer iterations from rival brands can outshine them. It’s all about timing.
In the case of the 2024 models, I find it hard to recommend the otherwise excellent 2024 Toyota Corolla over its main rival, the latest-generation Honda Civic.
The 2024 Corolla, priced from $23,505, is now in its twelfth generation and has been in production since 2018. It’s starting to show its age. On the other hand, the Honda Civic, now in its tenth generation, is only a couple of years old and boasts better technology.
Not only does the Civic look better and drive better, but it also offers more comfort and better resale value. With a starting price of $23,950 for the sedan and $24,950 for the hatchback, the choice is clear – go for the Honda Civic.
Upgrade Your Crossover Game: Toyota RAV4 vs. Ford Escape
Let’s be honest, Ford’s crossover game is mediocre at best. However, over 140,000 people still bought an Escape last year, with prices starting from $29,495. But here’s the thing – you can get a lot more value with the Toyota RAV4, which sets the benchmark for non-premium compact crossovers.
The RAV4 offers superior comfort, more cargo room, better interior quality, advanced tech features, improved performance (especially with the base engine), better fuel economy, and some argue it even has better driving dynamics.
While the Mazda CX-5 is also a great option, let’s keep things simple and go for the best-selling vehicle in its class – the RAV4. Toyota sold a whopping 434,943 units last year, with prices starting from $28,675.
Upgrade your crossover game and choose the Toyota RAV4 – its popularity is well-deserved.
The Ford Escape is a boring crossover that fails to stand out among its competitors. It is not a terrible car, but it lacks greatness in any aspect. In order to compete with the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, and Hyundai Tucson, Ford needs to revamp its design language.
The Lexus NX, despite selling over 74,000 units in 2023, falls short compared to its rivals from Audi, BMW, and Volvo. While the appeal of the Lexus brand is understandable, their cars are often overrated. The NX is a decent premium crossover, but it fails to match up to the competition in terms of overall package.
Although the NX is slightly cheaper than other compact premium SUVs like the BMW X3, GLC, and Q5, it is also smaller. Some argue that it is more of a BMW X1 rival, but that claim is unconvincing. The NX falls in the middle and the price difference is manageable.
The Volvo XC40 is a better alternative to the NX. It offers more space, better towing capacity, improved fuel economy, and superior maneuverability. It is simply a better and more convenient choice than the Lexus. Unfortunately, many sub-compact premium SUV buyers are unaware of this.
The Acura RDX is a popular crossover, with nearly 40,000 units sold last year. However, it cannot match its German rivals in terms of on-board tech and overall quality. Acura’s claim that the RDX is more capable than the BMW X3 is laughable. The X3 is the best overall compact SUV in the world right now, excelling in comfort, tech, performance, and ride. The RDX may have more cargo capacity, but it cannot compete with the BMW in terms of performance, build quality, on-board tech, safety, and connectivity.
“Chevy Malibu: Still Kicking”
In a surprising turn of events, the Chevy Malibu is still in production and going strong. Since its debut in 2016, this sedan has undergone a mid-cycle refresh in 2019, resulting in notable improvements across the board. With a larger front grille, updated headlight technology, a new RS trim, enhanced infotainment system, and improved safety features, the Malibu is ready to take on the competition.
Last year, Chevrolet managed to sell an impressive 130,341 units of the Malibu sedan. This figure surpasses the sales of their popular Trailblazer, a fact that is hard to believe given the current state of the industry. With a starting price of $25,000, the Malibu finds itself in the same territory as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. However, in a head-to-head comparison, the Accord emerges as the clear winner.
The eleventh-generation Accord, which has been in production since last year, outshines the Malibu in every aspect. From superior technology and safety features to enhanced comfort, performance, and resale value, the Accord offers it all. It’s hard to find any valid reason to choose the Malibu over the Accord in 2024, unless someone is forcing your hand. Luckily, John Wick is not a Chevy salesman.
“Chrysler 300: A Blast from the Past”
For the past 14 years, the second-generation Chrysler 300 has been a staple in the automotive industry. Although GM announced the end of production after the 2023 model year, you can still get your hands on a brand-new Chrysler 300. Starting at $36,145, the base model may not be the popular choice, but the Touring L ($39,840) and 300S ($44,850 for the V6 and $47,850 for the V8) offer more enticing options.
While the pricing strategy of the Chrysler 300 is clever, there are several drawbacks to consider. The car is built on an outdated platform, reminiscent of something out of a sci-fi movie. Furthermore, the on-board technology and overall interior quality leave much to be desired. Fortunately, there is a superior alternative that deserves your attention – the Lexus ES.
With a starting price of $43,190, the Lexus ES may not have the same prestige as its German counterparts. However, it outperforms the Chrysler 300 in almost every aspect. Although not direct rivals due to their size difference and more powerful engines in the Chrysler, the Lexus ES provides a more satisfying experience for everyday family use. Don’t settle for less when you can have the best with the Lexus ES.
Ford Edge: Outdated and Overpriced
The Ford Edge has been on the market since 2014, and despite some updates in recent years, it remains an obsolete product. Ford originally positioned the Edge as a premium-sporty SUV, but it never quite lived up to that promise.
It’s astonishing that Ford managed to sell over 100,000 units of the Edge last year. It seems that some people are easily swayed by clever sales tactics when they don’t have much knowledge about cars.
There are plenty of smarter alternatives to the Edge. In fact, I’ll point you to another Ford product that highlights just how outdated the Edge is – the Explorer. Not only is the Explorer priced similarly to the Edge, but it also offers a more modern driving experience, better technology, and superior safety features. Plus, the 2025 model year Explorer is right around the corner.
Thankfully, Ford will be discontinuing the Edge soon to make way for new electric vehicles. But until then, it’s a mistake to spend more money on an Edge when you could have a more advanced and spacious Explorer for less.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer: Pricey and Overshadowed
Jeep’s Wagoneer sub-brand may seem intriguing, especially to those unfamiliar with it. While the regular Wagoneer is reasonably priced, the Grand Wagoneer is a different story. It’s larger, but it’s not worth the hefty price tag.
The base-spec 2024 Grand Wagoneer starts at a staggering $92,540, but most premium SUV buyers will be eyeing the higher-end variants, such as the $104,440 Obsidian spec or the $113,290 Series III spec. These versions offer impressive size, comfort, and performance, thanks to a powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six engine with 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. It’s a formidable machine, and I can understand its appeal to some extent.
However, when it comes to luxury SUVs, the real benchmark is the 2024 Range Rover. It outshines the Grand Wagoneer in terms of prestige, refinement, and overall experience. So, if you’re considering spending six figures on an SUV, the Range Rover should be at the top of your list.
In a shocking revelation, the all-new Range Rover is now available at an affordable price. For just $107,400, you can get your hands on the standard wheelbase SE model. And if you’re looking for something even more luxurious, the long-wheelbase variant is priced at $113,400.
But don’t let the price fool you, this SUV is a powerhouse. Equipped with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbocharged mild-hybrid unit, the Range Rover boasts an impressive 400 horsepower. While it may not match the power of the Grand Wagoneer, it certainly doesn’t feel any slower on the road.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Why would anyone choose a Grand Wagoneer over the all-new Range Rover? It’s a no-brainer. The Range Rover offers unparalleled luxury and performance that simply can’t be matched. So, if you’re in the market for a luxury SUV, do yourself a favor and choose the Range Rover. You won’t be disappointed.
