In a landscape where vehicle ownership costs are rising, the 15 cars listed below are notorious for draining drivers’ wallets, whether through high maintenance fees, poor fuel economy, or outstanding recalls. The financial implications of owning these vehicles can be significant, affecting consumers’ budgets and long-term financial health.
1. BMW X5 (2019–2022)
The BMW X5 has garnered attention not just for its luxury, but also for its expensive upkeep. With an average maintenance cost exceeding $1,200 annually, this SUV can be a financial burden. Additionally, its fuel efficiency hovers around 21 MPG combined, leading to increased fuel costs for owners.
2. Mercedes-Benz GLE (2020–2022)
Luxury comes at a price with the Mercedes-Benz GLE, which has been known to incur maintenance costs of around $1,500 per year. Its complex technology can lead to costly repairs, and with fuel efficiency around 22 MPG, drivers might find themselves spending more than expected at the pump.
3. Range Rover Sport (2018–2021)
The Range Rover Sport is synonymous with luxury and performance, but it’s also infamous for its wallet-draining tendencies. Owners typically face maintenance expenses of about $1,700 annually, with fuel economy rated at just 19 MPG combined. This vehicle can quickly become a financial liability.
4. Audi Q7 (2019–2022)
With an average annual maintenance cost of approximately $1,300, the Audi Q7 is another vehicle that can burden your finances. The vehicle’s fuel economy is equally unflattering at around 21 MPG combined. These costs can add up, making it less appealing than other luxury SUVs.
5. Ford F-150 (2021–2022)
The Ford F-150 is one of America’s best-selling trucks, yet it can be a surprising financial drain. While it offers great performance, its average maintenance costs can reach $1,000 annually, coupled with a fuel economy that averages only 20 MPG combined. This combination can weigh heavily on a budget.
6. Jeep Wrangler (2018–2022)
The Jeep Wrangler is beloved for its off-road capabilities, but it comes with a catch. Owners often face annual maintenance costs of around $1,200, and its fuel economy is a mere 18 MPG combined. For adventurous drivers, this vehicle can be an expensive investment.
7. Chevrolet Suburban (2021–2022)
The Chevrolet Suburban is a family favorite for its spaciousness, yet it also brings higher costs. With an average maintenance cost of about $1,100 annually and a fuel efficiency of just 20 MPG combined, families may find themselves spending more than anticipated over time.
8. Nissan Armada (2018–2022)
The Nissan Armada offers a large, comfortable ride, but at a significant cost. Owners can expect to pay around $1,200 per year for maintenance, while its fuel economy stands at a disappointing 17 MPG combined. This SUV can quickly become a strain on finances for many drivers.
9. Toyota Land Cruiser (2020–2021)
The Toyota Land Cruiser is renowned for its reliability and off-road prowess, but its ownership costs are steep. Maintenance can average about $1,500 annually, and it only achieves around 18 MPG combined. This makes it one of the more expensive SUVs to own long-term.
10. Tesla Model X (2018–2022)
While electric vehicles are often touted for their lower maintenance costs, the Tesla Model X tells a different story. Owners can expect maintenance expenses to reach around $1,000 per year, and the vehicle’s complex technology can lead to costly repairs. Additionally, its range can be limiting for some drivers.
11. Dodge Durango (2021–2022)
The Dodge Durango is a powerful SUV, but it comes with a hefty price tag when it comes to upkeep. Annual maintenance costs can run as high as $1,200, and fuel economy is only 20 MPG combined. This can deter budget-conscious buyers from making the investment.
12. Volkswagen Atlas (2018–2022)
The Volkswagen Atlas is a spacious family SUV, yet its ownership costs can be daunting. With average annual maintenance costs around $1,100 and fuel efficiency of 21 MPG combined, families