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The Study That Shook the SUV Market
Consumer Reports recently released a comprehensive reliability report on new SUVs, drawing on data from 380,000 real owners and vehicles. The sample size is 27% larger than last year’s, giving the study unprecedented breadth. The organization examined 20 specific trouble areas—engines, transmissions, batteries, charging systems, body hardware, paint, and electronics—scoring each model on a 100‑point scale. A score of 100 indicates virtually no problems, while a score of 14 signals widespread, catastrophic failures across thousands of owners.
What a Low Score Means for Your Wallet
Reliability scores are more than a number; they translate directly into repair costs. A single out‑of‑warranty transmission replacement can run from $3,000 to $7,000, while an EV battery pack replacement can cost between $10,000 and $20,000. For a vehicle priced over $50,000, a low reliability score can turn a purchase into a long‑term financial burden. The report emphasizes that owners should view the reliability score as a critical factor before signing a contract.
The Bottom Eight SUVs of 2026
Consumer Reports ranked eight new SUVs with the lowest reliability scores, all falling below 25 out of 100. Below is a brief overview of each model, its price point, and the key issues reported by owners.
8. Honda Prologue (Score: 25)
Honda’s first full‑electric SUV, built on GM’s platform, has a score of 25. Owners report battery failures, charging system breakdowns, climate control malfunctions, infotainment freezes, and rattling trim. The vehicle’s high price—over $50,000—does not match its reliability.
7. Kia EV6 (Score: 25)
Priced around $42,000, the EV6’s award‑winning design is marred by battery failures, integrated charging control unit replacements, motor failures, brake issues, and body hardware problems. Despite its popularity, the vehicle’s reliability is a serious concern.
6. Kia EV9 (Score: 24)
At a starting price of about $55,000, the EV9 is Kia’s flagship three‑row electric SUV. Owners report battery pack cell replacements, charging system failures, screen blackouts, and body hardware issues. The high price and low score suggest a risky investment.
5. Mazda CX‑90 (Score: 23)
Mazda’s new premium three‑row SUV, priced above $50,000, suffers from premature timing chain failure, slipping transmissions, torque converter failures, steering problems, and infotainment issues. The brand’s previous reputation for quality has been undermined by these problems.
4. Mazda CX‑90 PHEV (Score: 20)
The plug‑in hybrid version of the CX‑90 scores even lower. In addition to the issues seen in the gasoline model, owners report EV battery malfunctions, electric motor failures, and suspension breakdowns, effectively doubling the risk of failure.
3. Genesis GV60 (Score: 21)
Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis offers the GV60, a $55,000 electric SUV marketed as a premium alternative to BMW and Mercedes. Owners report full battery pack replacements, entertainment system replacements, charging control unit failures, climate system breakdowns, and trim pieces falling off. The low score undermines the vehicle’s luxury positioning.
2. Chevy Blazer EV (Score: 19)
GM’s Blazer EV, launched with fanfare, has faced a stop‑sale order in early 2024 due to software failures. Owners continue to report battery malfunctions, cooling system failures, 12‑V battery failures, AC compressor breakdowns, and display screens going dark. The vehicle’s score reflects persistent reliability problems.
1. GMC Acadia (Score: 14)
The Acadia, a long‑time family hauler, scores the lowest at 14. Owners report transmission failures, leaking fluid, full transmission replacements, brake system problems, electrical accessory failures, and electronics going dark. With a price around $50,000, the vehicle’s low score signals a high likelihood of costly repairs.
What This Means for Potential Buyers
The data paints a stark picture: many new SUVs, even those with high price tags and strong brand reputations, are built to fail. A low reliability score translates into significant out‑of‑pocket expenses, especially when repairs occur after warranty expiration. Buyers should consider the reliability score as a key factor, not just the vehicle’s features or price. The report’s findings suggest that purchasing a vehicle with a score below 25 could lead to a financial hole that takes years to recover.
Key Takeaways
Consumer Reports’ 2026 SUV reliability study shows that eight new models—spanning electric and traditional platforms—score alarmingly low. The report highlights the direct cost implications of poor reliability and urges buyers to weigh these scores heavily when making a purchase decision. With the average new car price surpassing $50,000 for the first time, the stakes are higher than ever. By staying informed and prioritizing reliability, consumers can avoid costly repairs and protect their finances.