The Daily Driver Dilemma
Sedans have long been the go-to choice for people who just want a car that works—something practical enough for errands and weekend trips. But practicality doesn’t always deliver. Some sedans constantly frustrate with endless repair bills. But others surprise you by lasting far longer than you’d expect. This list calls out both ends of the spectrum. So, first, let’s take a look at ten sedans that make daily driving more of a hassle than it should be.
1. Nissan Altima
The Altima’s biggest drawback lies in its continuously variable transmission, which delivers a droning, unrefined driving feel. This flaw amplifies other weaknesses, as its long-standing reliability concerns have shaken owner trust and dragged down resale values.
2. Chevrolet Malibu
Despite its heritage stretching back to 1964, the modern Chevrolet Malibu struggles with substantial challenges. The most pressing concerns center on its problematic automatic transmission, which exhibits jerky shifting and outright failures. Plus, high-pressure fuel pump recalls add to these mechanical worries.
3. Volkswagen Jetta
Volkswagen's turbocharged powerplants in the Jetta line reflect an engineering journey marked by persistent reliability challenges since the model's 1979 debut. While this technical evolution has yielded impressively sporty handling characteristics, the ongoing mechanical and electrical system concerns have significantly impacted resale values.
4. Alfa Romeo Giulia
The Giulia Quadrifoglio wowed the world in 2016 with a blistering Nürburgring lap, hinting at near-perfect engineering. Unfortunately, owners soon uncovered its less thrilling side—persistent electronic glitches and unreliable sensors. These quirks undercut its performance brilliance, leaving drivers frustrated.
5. Genesis G70
Crowned North American Car of the Year in 2019, the G70 delivers strong appeal with three years of complimentary maintenance. Yet its cramped rear seats, limited trunk space, and reported fuel pump recalls temper the praise, reminding buyers that style and accolades come with trade-offs.
6. Cadillac CT5
Stepping into the shoes of both the CTS and ATS sedans, Cadillac's CT5 represents an ambitious consolidation that falls short of its premium promise. That’s because its base engine's lackluster performance and glitch-prone infotainment system betray its upmarket aspirations.
7. Volvo S60
The S60 stumbled early with a confusing infotainment interface that frustrated users and a series of recalls tied to seatbelt assembly issues. These setbacks cast a shadow over its reputation for safety and usability, leaving drivers wary of what should have been a reliable daily sedan.
8. Polestar 2
With Volvo's performance DNA and Android Automotive OS integration, the Polestar 2 promises a premium electric driving experience. However, this ambitious fusion of automotive and tech worlds reveals growing pains through its notably firm ride quality and recurring software glitches.
9. Subaru WRX
Born from rally racing, the WRX carries a sport-tuned suspension that favors track agility over city comfort. Its low stance adds to the difficulty of everyday driving, amplifying pothole punishment and wear. Enthusiasts may relish the setup, but commuters face higher costs and harsher rides.
10. Hyundai Elantra N
For performance enthusiasts craving track-ready thrills, Hyundai's first N-badged compact sedan delivers a 5.2-second sprint to sixty. Daily commuters, however, may find the Elantra N's sporting intentions less endearing, as stiff suspension settings and persistent road noise transform routine city drives into a more demanding experience.
Charles from Port Chester, New York on Wikimedia
Now, here are ten sedans that actually deliver on reliability and make everyday driving a whole lot easier.
1. Toyota Camry
The 2025 Camry strikes a practical balance with just $388 in annual maintenance costs and a first-year depreciation of $7,400. Despite only average reliability and typical depreciation, the Camry remains a dependable, cost-conscious sedan for everyday driving.
The 2025 Toyota Camry Is Boring, But Really Good by Doug DeMuro
2. Honda Accord
Since its 1976 debut, the Honda Accord has evolved from a modest sedan into an automotive benchmark through decades of refinement. Today's model exemplifies this progression with class-leading rear legroom, consistently superior IIHS safety ratings, and advanced hybrid powertrains.
3. Toyota Corolla
With an astounding 44 million units sold globally, the Toyota Corolla stands as a defining benchmark in automotive success. This remarkable achievement stems from the model's proven combination of low maintenance expenses and exceptional reliability, complemented by versatile sedan and hatchback configurations.
4. Honda Civic
Since 1972, the Civic has been a favorite for drivers who love personalization, with Honda’s own Si and Type R trims showcasing its performance edge. Praised steering precision and lively handling cement its reputation as a compact sedan that blends everyday practicality with genuine driving excitement.
5. Hyundai Sonata
Think of your smartphone as command central for the Hyundai Sonata, as it starts your car with a tap that sets the tone for seamless daily convenience. Plus, the coupe-like design turns heads while hiding a surprisingly roomy interior, and select hybrid models even harness solar power to recharge.
6. Kia K5
While traditional sedans play it safe, the Kia K5 shatters expectations with its aggressive front grille and bold styling. Breaking further from convention, it brings rare all-wheel drive capability to the midsize segment. Besides, the driver-centric cockpit with ambient lighting reinforces its revolutionary spirit.
7. Subaru Legacy
Built around Subaru's advanced EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, the Legacy takes safety seriously from the ground up. Plus, its standard all-wheel drive system delivers exceptional control in snow and rain. Assembled at Subaru's Lafayette, Indiana plant, this American-made sedan brings peace of mind to every journey.
8. Lexus ES
If silence is golden, the Lexus ES is Fort Knox on wheels, delivering whisper-quiet luxury and a ride smoother than a buttered penguin. This serene cruiser even offers a hybrid variant for those who want their peace and fuel efficiency, too.
9. Tesla Model 3
When the world's most popular electric car is also the most entertaining to drive, you know something's gone delightfully right. The Tesla Model 3 topped global EV sales in 2020, winning hearts with its dual personality: a long-range cruiser or performance powerhouse that pairs Autopilot smarts with a screen-centric cockpit.
10. BMW 3 Series
Since 1975, the 3 Series has defined the sports sedan formula, earning its place as BMW’s best-seller. Its precise rear-wheel-drive dynamics and balanced handling set the benchmark. In the U.S., the lineup now focuses solely on sedans, powered by refined turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines.
