Made in the U.S.A.
American manufacturing is known to be bold, innovative, and fairly sturdy. With that in mind, let’s explore some of the best and worst American-made cars out there. From your favorite Fords to your questionable Jeeps, this list focuses on one thing and one thing only: reliability. So, do you agree with our picks?
1. 2025 Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV by Tesla. It has good range, fast acceleration, and a spacious interior. It has solid performance, but poor reliability. Tesla's quality control is spotty, with problems like panel gaps and poor interior fit and finish. It also has a stiff ride, and a driver who prefers buttons to touchscreen controls will find it less reliable.
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2. 2025 Rivian R1T
The 2025 Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup truck from Rivian. It features quick acceleration, a comfortable ride, and 420 miles of range. However, the R1T suffers from reliability issues such as software glitches and a limited repair network that could leave you stranded. In addition, the R1T lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ongoing issues with service and build quality make the R1T less reliable than traditional pickup truck competitors.
3. 2025 Lincoln Nautilus
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury midsize SUV produced by Lincoln that is known for its elegant design, comfortable ride, and high-tech features such as a 48-inch panoramic display and hands-free driving. However, despite its plush interior and sophisticated styling, the Lincoln Nautilus has been plagued by reliability issues, including problems with its complex electronics system and inconsistent build quality. These issues are further exacerbated by reports of engine noise and spongy brakes, making this American luxury SUV less reliable than its premium competition.
4. 2025 Dodge Hornet
The 2025 Dodge Hornet is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers sporty looks and fun driving dynamics with its turbocharged engine and nimble steering. It’s a decent option for those seeking an engaging small SUV and comes standard with a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system and comfortable front seats. However, the Hornet has a very low predicted reliability rating, making it a gamble to purchase. This, along with its cramped rear seat legroom, small trunk, and poor fuel economy, is a major downside.
5. 2025 Cadillac Lyriq
Cadillac's EV effort is the Lyriq, an upscale all-electric crossover that's more focused on comfort and composed handling than outright thrills. Its quiet, composed ride, cabin comfort, and dual-motor grunt will win you over if you're in the market for an EV. But a dismal predicted reliability rating signals potential trouble for Lyriq owners.
6. 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric pickup truck made by Ford. The F-150 Lightning has strong towing ability, brisk acceleration, and a quiet cabin, giving buyers the usual truck capability with an all-electric twist. Despite this, the poor predicted reliability may put buyers off.
7. 2025 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road SUV manufactured by Jeep, known for its off-road capability, removable roof, and adventurous styling. It offers excellent off-road performance and a fun driving experience, but it has a reputation for reliability problems, including frequent mechanical issues and high maintenance costs. These dependability concerns can make it less practical for daily driving, despite its legendary status as an off-road vehicle.
8. 2025 Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford Escape Hybrid is a small SUV by Ford that uses a hybrid engine system to provide the driver with good gas mileage in a useful crossover-style vehicle. The Escape Hybrid has shown some reliability issues due to a number of potential problems, including battery system and electronic failures, which make it a risky choice for consumers looking for a long-term, trouble-free purchase.
9. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize, off-road-capable SUV produced by Jeep. It is available in both body-on-frame and unibody styles and is recognized for its large interior, solid towing ability, and rugged aesthetic. While the Grand Cherokee is a desirable vehicle that has been very successful, it has had some issues with reliability and has a reputation for frequent mechanical and electrical failures, making it a less-than-ideal purchase for those seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance SUV.
10. 2025 GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup truck manufactured by GMC. The Canyon offers a good mix of utility, comfort, and maneuverability for work and daily driving. It provides a capable ride quality and a well-equipped interior. However, it has experienced reliability issues, including engine and transmission problems in certain model years.
Now that we’ve talked about some of the worst American cars out there right now, here are 10 of the best.
1. 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
The 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is an American rear-wheel-drive sports sedan with a V-8 engine. The CT5-V Blackwing offers a manual transmission option, rare in a new car today and ideal for driving purists. A practical yet exhilarating performer, this latest Blackwing sedan also has pinpoint handling and the design cues of a classic muscle car.
2. 2025 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette is a supercar that you can actually afford. This car has an exotic look that will have people turning their heads when you cruise by. The Corvette is reliable, engineered to a high degree, and fun to drive.
3. 2025 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The 2025 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is a well-balanced American sports sedan that makes every drive an exhilarating experience. Its responsive handling and precision engineering create a communicative connection between car and driver. The reliable, performance-oriented model offers everyday usability and thrilling driving enjoyment.
4. 2025 Lucid Air
The 2025 Lucid Air is an American electric sedan designed to be fast and luxurious. With one of the top industry electric ranges, it is also one of the most practical EVs you can buy. Relying on the Lucid Air is a smart move, as this high-end sedan provides dependability, cutting-edge tech, and a smooth, exciting ride.
5. 2025 Tesla Model 3
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 is a versatile American electric car offering a balanced mix of style, efficiency, and practicality. It has recently received updates that improve ride comfort and offer a more refined interior. The Model 3 is reliable, tech-forward, and provides an affordable entry into the world of EVs without sacrificing performance.
6. 2025 Ford Mustang
A new-look 2025 Ford Mustang, an American classic. The improved fuel-economy engine lineup brings a high-performance drive. The Ford Mustang always remains both fun and familiar for drivers. It has a recognizable, edgy appearance, but with supercharged acceleration.
7. 2025 Cadillac XT5
The 2025 Cadillac XT5 is a dependable American SUV with a spacious interior and ample cargo space. The available V6 engine delivers solid performance, and standard tech features like the 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and Wi-Fi hotspot add convenience. Cadillac's strong warranties give the XT5 a winning combination of practicality, comfort, and peace of mind for daily driving.
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8. 2025 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse is a dependable American SUV with a smooth ride. With seating for up to eight and a spacious cargo area, it is family-friendly. The Traverse offers standard safety and convenience features. Warranties are generous, making the Traverse a practical and reliable SUV.
9. 2025 Ford Bronco Sport
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is a dependable American compact SUV that offers a blend of off-road capability and a spacious, well-equipped interior. With features such as skid plates, a locking rear differential, and modern technology, it's designed for adventurous drivers who want to tackle various terrains. Supported by comprehensive warranties, the Bronco Sport provides both reliability and versatility for daily driving and trail adventures.
10. 2025 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox is a dependable American compact SUV known for its attractive exterior design and well-equipped interior. It features standard safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Equinox is backed by strong warranties, providing peace of mind for its owners.
