6 Automobiles That Define Poor Value

It’s difficult to pin down exactly what defines value in an automobile, but the standards rise along with the sticker price. Luxury cars and SUVs have the toughest go at it, and that was the reason many landed on the Consumer Reports list of worst value automobiles. Here are six vehicles that represent the epitome of poor value from otherwise accomplished automakers.

1. Jaguar XJL Portfolio ($81,200)

Standards are sky-high for cars above $80K, and the Jaguar XJL Portfolio from Tata Motors (NYSE:TTM) failed the Consumer Reports test on the technology front. Controls were unresponsive and confusing on several levels, while the lack of head room and low reliability ratings made the Portfolio a big loser on overall value. There are many better ways to spend $80,000.

2. 2013 Cadillac Escalade ($63,745)

GM (NYSE:GM) describes the Cadillac Escalade as “an icon,” but Consumer Reports testers called the 2013 model’s handling “clumsy” and fuel economy of 13 mpg city flat-out “poor.” On top of those factors, the Escalades take a long time to stop from higher speeds, making it more prone to accidents. Overall, there is plenty lacking in this expensive upgrade over other GM sports utility vehicles. Cadillac is above this standard.

2014 Nissan Armada Platinum

3. Nissan Armada Platinum ($49,460)

Another SUV that took a pounding from Consumer Reports was the Nissan (NSANY.PK) Armada Platinum, which the website scored “much below average” in reliability. Reviewers weren’t wowed by the noisy V8 engine, dull styling, or “abysmal” fuel economy rating of 13 mpg in the 2013 model. As for the 2014 version, there is no improvement over many of these issues, fuel efficiency included.

4. 2013 Lincoln MKX ($39,575)

 Ford (NYSE:F) has struggled most with its Lincoln brand, which took a good deal of heat for the MKX SUV.  Consumer Reports panned the MKX in its review, calling it “unimpressive” from its handling to the “distracting and tedious” MyLincoln Touch features. The model tested was closer to $50,000, leaving reviewers feeling as if the MKX was a loser in the value department. The Ford brand is doing much better.

Photo: Chris Yarzab via Flickr

5. 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara ($32, 940)

Consumer Reports was enthusiastic about the off-road capabilities of the Jeep (FIATY.PK) Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, but the praise ended there. Reviewers disliked the noise levels, handling, comfort, and even the degree of difficulty getting in and out of the vehicle. Reliability and safety were at their worst in the four-door version. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon scored much higher on every front.

6. 2013 Volvo C70 ($41,200)

There are many ways to admit defeat, but the most obvious is Volvo’s (VOLVY.PK) approach — by discontinuing production of the C70 convertible. Consumer Reports pecked away at the C70′s poor reliability, uninspired handling, and overall unexceptional performance.  Volvo’s new concept coupe drew wide praise in the Franfurt Motor Show, and most critics are encouraging the automaker to follow that road.

Value is not defined by price specifically, but rather a combination of payoff on every dollar and benefits compared to the competition. These six automakers are heading back to the drawing board to rethink value following their notable flops