The 2000s brought us many memorable SUVs, but not all managed to win over drivers. Despite their unique features and potential, some models just never took off. Here are 18 SUVs from that decade that, for various reasons, failed to make a lasting impression.
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Pontiac Aztek (2000)
The Pontiac Aztek is often remembered for its unconventional and polarizing design, which alienated many potential buyers. Despite its versatile features like a removable cooler and tent, the aesthetic failed to resonate with the masses. Poor initial sales rapidly led to a decline in market presence. Ultimately, it became more famous for frequent appearances on “worst car” lists than for its practicality.
Isuzu Axiom (2001)
Struggling with a lack of brand recognition, the Isuzu Axiom also faced criticism for its dated interior design. Although it featured a decent V6 engine and reasonable off-road capabilities, it couldn’t compete with more refined competitors. Reliability issues further deterred buyers.
Suzuki XL-7 (1998)
Poor performance and mediocre fuel economy turned many potential customers away from the Suzuki XL-7. Affordability and three rows of seating weren’t enough to overcome its lack of refinement and features. A limited dealership network in the U.S. also hampered sales.
Saturn Vue (2001)
The Saturn Vue’s unique polymer body panels and available hybrid model failed to gain a strong foothold. Reliability issues plagued initial models, tarnishing its reputation early on. Interior quality and driving dynamics were subpar compared to rivals.
Kia Borrego (2008)
Entering the market during the 2008 financial crisis, the Kia Borrego struggled to gain traction. Despite offering V8 power and a well-equipped interior, its poor timing and high fuel consumption worked against it. Consumers shifted towards more fuel-efficient vehicles, leaving the Borrego overlooked.
Chevrolet Tracker (1989)
The compact size and dated design kept the Chevrolet Tracker from appealing to a broad audience. While it was affordable and had off-road capabilities, it couldn’t compete with more modern and stylish rivals. Performance and comfort levels were below par.
Mercury Mountaineer (1996)
Essentially a rebadged Ford Explorer, the Mercury Mountaineer struggled to stand out in a crowded market. Its higher price tag and minimal brand appeal did not justify the few additional features offered. Reliability issues shared with the Explorer further hampered its success.
Mazda Tribute (2000)
Despite being a joint venture with Ford, the Mazda Tribute never matched the popularity of its sibling, the Ford Escape. It lacked brand recognition and a strong marketing push. The Tribute’s uninspired design and average performance didn’t help either. Mazda’s shift to more engaging and stylish models led to the Tribute’s obscurity.
Oldsmobile Bravada (1991)
Facing an uphill battle due to the declining popularity of the Oldsmobile brand, the Bravada offered a luxurious interior and decent performance. However, it couldn’t compete with more established luxury SUVs. Dated styling and the brand’s overall struggles led to its quick demise.
Hyundai Veracruz (2006)
Entering a highly competitive segment, the Hyundai Veracruz struggled without a strong brand presence in the luxury SUV market. While it offered a spacious interior and good value for money, it lacked the premium appeal of its rivals. Hyundai’s focus on other successful models like the Santa Fe overshadowed the Veracruz.
Subaru B9 Tribeca (2005)
Unconventional front-end styling turned off many potential buyers of the Subaru B9 Tribeca. Despite Subaru’s loyal customer base, the Tribeca couldn’t attract new customers due to its awkward design and cramped third row. It also suffered from less-than-stellar fuel economy and performance. Subaru eventually redesigned it, but the initial damage was hard to overcome.
Mitsubishi Endeavor (2003)
Bland styling and lackluster performance kept the Mitsubishi Endeavor from capturing market interest. While it had a roomy interior and decent handling, it couldn’t stand out in the crowded midsize SUV segment. Mitsubishi’s limited marketing efforts and declining brand presence in the U.S. further hindered its success.
Ford Excursion (1999)
Aimed at those needing serious towing and hauling capacity, the Ford Excursion’s enormous size and poor fuel economy limited its appeal. Rising fuel prices and changing consumer preferences towards smaller, more efficient vehicles further dampened its prospects. The Excursion quickly became a niche vehicle.
Buick Rendezvous (2001)
Attempting to combine the features of a minivan and an SUV, the Buick Rendezvous failed to appeal to either market segment. Bland design and initial quality issues turned off potential buyers. While it offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior, it couldn’t compete with more stylish and reliable competitors.
GMC Envoy XUV (2003)
Featuring a unique sliding rear roof, the GMC Envoy XUV couldn’t compensate for its high price and lack of practicality. Its complexity led to reliability issues, and the design didn’t resonate with most SUV buyers. The limited market appeal further hindered its success.
Lincoln Aviator (2002)
The first-generation Lincoln Aviator aimed to offer a luxurious alternative to the Ford Explorer but failed to distinguish itself. Higher prices and lack of significant differentiation from the Explorer turned off many buyers. Stiff competition from more established luxury brands made things worse.
Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT (2002)
Offering extended seating capacity, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT failed to capture significant market share. Larger size compromised handling and fuel economy without providing a markedly better experience. Its design and features were quickly overshadowed by more modern SUVs.
Infiniti QX4 (1996)
A rebadged version of the Nissan Pathfinder, the Infiniti QX4 struggled in the luxury SUV market. The aging design and lack of significant premium features made it less attractive compared to rivals. Although it offered good off-road capability, luxury buyers sought more refinement and advanced technology.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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