Do your research before paying thousands for a ride in the new year.
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Plenty of drivers are excited about new options coming in the new year. One of the smart money moves if you own a car and want to buy a new ride in 2026 is to make sure you do your research so you don’t have buyer’s regret.
One way to do just that is to avoid new cars that may turn out to be bad deals and leave you with the feeling you paid too much. Here’s a look at 10 new cars that may do just that.
Editor’s note: Reviews and data come from Consumer Reports.
MSRP: $23,930
It looks like plenty of people are overpaying for the new Nissan Kicks. In fact, they’re generally paying about 5% over the MSRP. In other words, more than $1,200 over that price. Some other reasons you may want to avoid the Kicks include a harsh ride, a noisy cabin, and reports of slow acceleration.
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MSRP: $46,300
The Cadillac XT5 is a luxury compact SUV. Many people are paying about 4% over the MSRP. It means the average spent over that amount is $2,059. Another negative mentioned by some reviewers is that the XT5 just doesn’t live up to its competitors. Some also said it feels lethargic and has difficult views.
MSRP: $31,795
Plenty of drivers are overpaying for the 2026 Outlander ES S-AWC. In fact, they’re spending an average of $1,352 over the MSRP of $31,795. Some owners have also talked about the Outlander trailing other small SUVs in the quality of ride and overall refinement.
You may see the Mazda3 being offered for close to $26,600. That’s more than $1,000 over the MSRP and not a good deal. You may also find the infotainment system kind of complicated, and the rear seat leaves more to be desired. Rear and side visibility may be an issue for the hatchback.
MSRP: $31,195
For drivers looking for a compact SUV, the Ford Escape ST-Line FWD may not be the best deal for the new year. Drivers have been spending an average of $1,200 over the MSRP.
According to reviewers, this vehicle doesn’t have a super high predicted owner satisfaction. One issue may be value. Some buyers don’t feel like they got what they wanted relative to the price they paid.
MSRP: $30,490
The Rogue S AWD is another compact SUV that may be a bad deal. Plenty of drivers have been paying more than $1,200 over the MSRP (that’s 4%).
Another reason to take pause with the Rogue is a concern about predicted reliability. Other issues may include annoying idle vibration and low dash air vents.
MSRP: $25,450
Make sure you look carefully for a good deal if you want the Elantra Hybrid Blue. Buyers have been spending close to $1,000 on average over the MSRP. When looking at the Elantra Hybrid, take note of some reports of reliability and access concerns for drivers and passengers.
MSRP: $32,890
You can try to search around for a good deal on the Compass Limited AWD. However, many buyers have been spending 3% ($1,139) over the MSRP. Some reviewers have referred to the Compass as an outdated small SUV that just falls short of the competition in most ways.
MSRP: $36,550
Here’s a midsize pickup that may be a terrible deal. The Nissan Frontier Crew Cab S 4WD has seen drivers overpaying more than $800 from the MSRP. If you think the Frontier has a rough ride, you’re not alone. Reviewers also noted a tight rear seat.
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Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
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Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Get a free quote
MSRP: $25,305
The 2026 Jetta Sport also makes the list of new cars that may be bad deals. Lots of buyers have been paying an average of $541 over the MSRP. You may want to make note of potential handling and ergonomic issues with this Jetta.
Some of the new cars available for 2026 may turn out to be bad deals. It’s especially true if you don’t do your research and end up paying more than you feel is fair.
The situation can feel even worse when you’re stuck with the new vehicle and shopping around for a new insurance company. One trick that may help this year is to use an online tool to find out how insurance on your new ride may compare to what you’re currently paying. Then search for some offers and try to negotiate a deal with your current insurer.
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