5 Sedans To Avoid Buying in 2025
Written by
Josephine Nesbit
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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If you’re budgeting and shopping for a new sedan in 2025, you might have some difficulty.
American car manufacturers are shifting gears and no longer making sedans en mass. Instead, they’re primarily focusing on crossover SUVs and trucks, according to SlashGear. “Not many manufacturers are making many sedans and I have not experienced many complaints about them so far,” said Chris Pyle, auto expert with JustAnswer.
Here are five sedans to avoid buying in 2025, according to Pyle and other car experts.
Fiat 500e
The Fiat 500e is a small, fully electric sedan. It has a short driving range and may be a better fit for someone living in a city with a short commute.
“The 500e would work for someone doing short commutes because its maximum range is under 150 miles. However, it would not work for someone who likes to travel or has a long commute,” explained Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with CarInsurance.org.
“Fiat is notorious for electronic glitches, so if you want a hassle-free vehicle, this isn’t for you. According to Musson, the 500e will likely have small issues that pop up more frequently than you want and won’t be able to get you long distances.
Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta is a fuel-efficient, affordable sedan with a roomy cabin, but Car and Driver noted that its latest updates don’t make up for its aging platform.
“The Jetta is an inexpensive sedan, but the lack of reliability may make you wish you would have spent a bit more money and avoided the hassle,” Musson said. There are also problems with oil and transmission fluid leaks and the power locks may malfunction, she added.
Nissan Sentra
According to Pyle, the Nissan Sentra has “a loud engine and poor acceleration and not for tall occupants because of a low headliner.”
Musson also pointed out that the Sentra is a basic car and doesn’t have as many features to lure potential buyers. “Thanks to its lack of power, it’s not much fun to drive,” she added. “The safety package doesn’t include some of the basic features drivers might expect and there have been reports of steering loss in previous model years.”
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is another affordable sedan with good fuel efficiency, but Joe Giranda, car expert and director of sales and marketing at CFR Classic, noted that recent models have fallen short in key areas.
“Many owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can lead to costly repairs down the road,” Giranda explained. “On top of that, the interior feels less refined compared to competitors and the driving experience lacks the excitement many buyers are looking for.”
Instead, he recommends a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.
Chevrolet Malibu
The Chevrolet Malibu is an attractive mid-size family car with decent fuel economy, but Giranda noted it’s starting to show its age.
“The design feels outdated and the base engine struggles to deliver enough power for a smooth ride. The interior is also behind the times, lacking the tech and features that many buyers expect in 2025,” Giranda explained.
Chevrolet is also shifting its focus to SUVs and electric vehicles and Giranda argued that the Malibu isn’t likely to see major improvements, which could hurt its resale value. “If you’re looking for something modern and reliable, there are better options out there,” he said.
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