Advances in technology have led to the production of cars that pack powerful engines, are more luxurious, and more reliable. Due to this, one wouldn't be too far off the mark if he were to think that modern vehicles are more reliable compared to classic cars.
Most shoppers tend to go for cheap sports cars, with impressive performance and tech features without checking their reliability. Such buyers find out in the long run that what they considered as a good bargain had hidden costs in the form of costly repairs. It is very surprising how many top brands there are that have unreliable models in their lineup. Determining the reliability of cars is not easy in any way, that is why we rely on information from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Read on for a list of the most unreliable new sports cars on the market today.
8 2021 Nissan GT-R
Buyers of the 2021 Nissan GT-R have the option of choosing either the 565 hp base V6 or an optional 600 hp V6 engine. The GT-R is outshined by the Chevrolet Corvette and the Porsche 911 which both offer sharper handling and better quality interior materials.
According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Nissan GT-R is one of the cars that has been recalled by Nissan North America, Inc. The recall is due to the weakness of the steering knuckle and the rear axle housing caused by improper heat treatment.
7 2021 BMW Z4
According to J. D. Power, the 2021 BMW Z4 has an average reliability ranking of 75 on a scale of 1 to 100. BMW has recalled the 2021 Z4 along with some of its other models due to a variety of problems.
The latest recall is due to the Braking Assist failure, while the earlier recalls were caused by problems with the seatbelt and improperly welded fuel tanks. Despite these shortcomings and its similarities to the 2021 Toyota Supra, the Z4 has a larger infotainment screen and a more luxurious cabin than the Supra.
6 2021 Acura NSX
Although the 2021 Acura NSX is quick and fast, it can't outrun the likes of the Audi R8 and the McLaren 570S. The NSX comes with one powertrain (a turbocharged V6 supported by 3 electric motors) while competition like the Mercedes-AMG GT offers several choices including a feisty 630-hp V8.
After a minor upgrade in 2019, the NSX has carried on practically unchanged to 2021, with its ancient 7-inch infotainment screen and all. For the 2019 and 2020 model years, the Acura NSX got a low reliability rating of 3/5 according to usnews.com. This has a lot to do with the recalls the NSX has faced over the years, including potential fuel leaks and failing fuel pump.
5 2021 Jaguar F-Type
When compared with the infotainment systems found in the Porsche Cayman and the Chevrolet Corvette, the F-Type's infotainment system responds slowly and is not too user-friendly. The Cayman also beats the F-Type in terms of cabin room, sharp handling, and the availability of manual transmission.
Unfortunately, some 2021 F-Types have been recalled due to problems with seatbelts automatic locking retractors which may fail to properly secure a child during a crash. Earlier in 2021, Jaguar had to recall certain 2020 F-Type vehicles due to problems with the Antilock Braking System and the Dynamic Stability Control system.
4 2021 Toyota Supra
The 2021 Toyota Supra is one of the vehicles that were recalled recently due to issues with the Braking Assist. Although the mechanical braking system works just fine, failure of the Braking Assist increases the possibility of a crash.
The 2021 Toyota Supra is given a predicted reliability score of 73 on a scale of 1 to 100 by J. D. Power. Despite having so much in common with the BMW Z4 in terms of chassis and powertrains, the Supra comes only with automatic transmission.
3 2021 Dodge Challenger
Recently Chrysler recalled some of the 2021 Dodge Challengers to fix certain safety issues. Failure to properly bond the windshield to the vehicle during manufacturing has caused it to detach in collisions thereby increasing the chance of injury.
The second recall was due to safety system indicators that were not sufficiently illuminated - a situation that can lead to crashes. Although the Challenger trails rival like Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro in terms of handling, it beats them to the punch in cargo space.
2 2021 Chevrolet Camaro
According to Consumer Reports, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has recalled the 2021 Chevrolet Camaro up to three times in less than one year. The first recall was due to issues with improperly attached seatbelts while the second recall was due to issues with the axle shaft.
Add the third recall (due to a problem with the steering wheel airbag) and you see why Consumer Reports rates the Camaro low on reliability. Despite other flaws like poor outward visibility and tight rear seats, it offers a thrilling driving experience.
1 Porsche 718 Cayman
Boasting an attractive design and priced much more affordably than the 911, the 718 Cayman may seem like the perfect entry-level luxury sports car. That is, if you can look past the fact that it now has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Still, the Cayman has proven itself an exciting performer and a great weekend car. What most owners resent about the model, however, is its poor reliability. Already, the car is facing a recall over potential engine damage and fire. Whatcar.com gives a nice summary of its issues and owner impressions, stating a low 82.5% reliability rating for models produced from 2016 onwards.
While there's no reliability data available for the 2021 Cayman as of yet, it seems that the new model will not change much from the previous few model years, which were recalled multiple times and suffered consistent engine and electrical problems.