Which 2017 Model Year Cars Underperformed in Major Automotive Challenges?

Based on our assessment experience analyzing numerous head-to-head comparisons, several 2017 model year vehicles consistently underperformed against their competitors in key areas like interior quality, technology, and safety features. This conclusion comes from a year of rigorous testing by automotive experts, where these eight models finished at or near the bottom of their respective categories.

What Were the Biggest Flaws in the 2017 Three-Row SUV Segment?

The 2017 Toyota Highlander finished last in the Three-Row SUV Challenge, trailing the next competitor by over 100 points. Its primary shortcomings were the lowest scores for second- and third-row comfort, limited cargo room, and an outdated multimedia system. Notably, it lacked smartphone integration features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which had become mainstream expectations. While the absence of a Ford Explorer in the challenge might have slightly altered the standings, the Highlander's deficiencies were too significant to overcome.

Why Did the Redesigned 2017 Jeep Compass Disappoint Critics?

The fully redesigned 2017 Jeep Compass entered the Compact SUV Challenge with high expectations but delivered a weak performance. Judges cited an anemic powertrain, questionable interior material quality, and a noticeable lack of passenger space as major drawbacks. Its sole victory was for having the best multimedia system, a positive note dampened by the fact that the same system was available in more competitive vehicles.

How Did an Aging Design Hurt the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500?

In the One-Ton Heavy-Duty Pickup Challenge, the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 Denali won most measured performance tests against the newer Ford F-350. However, its aging platform was its ultimate downfall. The Sierra lacked the technological and convenience features that were abundant in the Ford. Even in its premium Denali trim, the interior was judged as less luxurious than expected, highlighting the rapid pace of innovation in the truck segment.

Did the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Lose Its Off-Road Crown?

Facing the all-new Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro won several categories in a Mid-Size Off-Road Pickup comparison. However, its victories were narrow, while its losses were decisive, leading to an overall win for the Chevrolet. The results suggested that the established Tacoma was due for light tweaks to remain competitive with a fresh and formidable challenger.

What Sank the 2017 Lexus IS 200t in the Luxury Sports Sedan Category?

The 2017 Lexus IS 200t presented a paradox. Despite being equipped with summer performance tires, it was outperformed in measured tests by a competitor using winter tires. While it impressed on the autocross course, its powertrain was deemed lacking in other acceleration and driving scenarios. The final blow was its frustrating Lexus Remote Touch infotainment interface, which contributed to its last-place finish.

How Did a Lack of Standard Safety Features Doom the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze?

The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze performed well in areas like passenger room and its multimedia system during the Compact Sedan Challenge. Nonetheless, it earned a score of zero out of 100 in the safety category because it lacked standard or optional crash avoidance features that competitors offered, often for a similar price. A perfect safety score would have lifted the Cruze to third place, demonstrating how critical standard safety technology had become by 2017.

Why Was the 2017 Nissan Titan XD a "Tweener" Truck That Struggled?

The 2017 Nissan Titan XD occupied an awkward market position—too large to be a half-ton truck but not robust enough to be a true three-quarter-ton heavy-duty model. This identity crisis led to last or next-to-last place finishes in three separate challenges. Its performance in the Monster Factory Off-Road Challenge was particularly outshone, only avoiding absolute last place due to its payload capacity and fuel economy.

Was the 2017 Ram 2500 Power Wagon Unfairly Judged by the Scoring System?

Subjectively, the 2017 Ram 2500 Power Wagon was the judges' second-favorite vehicle in the Monster Factory Off-Road Challenge, excelling in off-road conditions. However, objective scoring based on factors like low payload capacity, slow track times, and abysmal fuel economy placed it last. This highlights how standardized scoring can sometimes penalize a vehicle that excels in a specific, intended purpose like extreme off-roading.

In summary, the common threads among these 2017 underperformers were often outdated technology, a lack of standard safety equipment, or designs that had been surpassed by newer competitors. For used car shoppers, these findings are not necessarily deal-breakers but are critical points to investigate. Always prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verify that any vehicle's specific shortcomings, such as an outdated infotainment system, are acceptable for your needs.