5 Popular Mid-Size Cars To Stay Away From in Retirement
Written by
Paige Cerulli
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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Mid-size cars are a versatile choice, offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo but also tending to be fuel-efficient. They’re often excellent if you’re looking for a vehicle in retirement, but some models perform better than others. If you’re shopping for a new or used mid-size car, you’ll want to stay away from these popular options.
Kia Optima
The Kia Optima is a mid-size sedan and is available as a hybrid. While its Edmunds review varies by the model year, the Optima is plagued by various issues, including unresponsive “dead” steering and lower fuel economy than other mid-size sedans.
Most notably, the Kia Optima has a 1.2-star review on Consumer Affairs. Many reviewers describe very similar issues, including significant reliability problems and engine failures, even on vehicles with low mileage. Several reviewers describe challenges in working with Kia, including the company refusing to honor vehicle warranties.
Dodge Journey
The Dodge Journey is no longer in production, but retirees should be wary of used vehicles that are available. The 2020 Dodge Journey received a poor 3.5 out of 10 rating from Car and Driver, with the review stating the vehicle has “dismal driving dynamics.” And was “ultimately disappointing.”
While the Journey is a budget-friendly option, that comes at a price in terms of the vehicle’s overall quality. The four-cylinder engine leaves the vehicle underpowered and the handling is imprecise. The four-cylinder engine also features a poor 19 MPG city and 25 MPG fuel economy, so retirees are likely to pay more at the pump with this vehicle.
Buick Cascada
Manufactured from 2016 to 2019, the Buick Cascada is a mid-size convertible that’s affordably priced, especially when purchased used. It’s known for being a reliable choice, falls short in other areas.
The 2019 Buick Cascada has a mediocre 5.6 out of 10 rating from Edmunds. According to Edmunds, it’s a “heavy, underpowered” vehicle with sluggish handling and it lacks acceleration. Since you have to stay on the gas, it gets poor gas mileage of a combined 24 MPG. The review also notes that the vehicle’s technology is outdated, including voice controls that are frustrating and minimal driver aids.
Tesla Model Y
The 2026 Tesla Model Y has a 9 out of 10 rating from Car and Driver, but the vehicle has some shortcomings that should give you pause. Its MSRP of $46,630 to $61,630 makes it an expensive purchase, though its EPA estimated range of 327 to 357 miles is an appealing perk.
However, this electric vehicle features many controls in the touchscreen that can make using it difficult. Its firm ride may be uncomfortable to retirees who want a more comfortable feel or who plan to spend long hours behind the wheel. Additionally, Tesla has discontinued the third-row seats with the 2026 model, which limits the vehicle’s versatility when traveling with family or friends.
Dodge Hornet
The 2025 Dodge Hornet has received very mixed reviews and while some drivers love it, others have experienced numerous issues with the vehicle. Its 24 MPG combined fuel economy is only decent and Car and Driver reported that the rear seats are very tight, so this may not be the right vehicle for retirees who plan on taking trips with friends or driving around grandchildren. The Hornet also lacks generous cargo room, which can be frustrating and limiting.
That said, the Hornet has strong acceleration and sporty handling, so it may be the right choice for some individuals. Just think carefully about how often you’ll have passengers using the backseat or how much cargo room you need before you buy.
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