The allure of foreign cars often lies in their exotic appeal, cutting-edge technology, and prestigious brand names. However, not all that glitter is gold. Many foreign vehicles lose their value dramatically once they leave the dealership. Here, we explore 15 such cars renowned for their steep depreciation.

Suzuki X-90

The Suzuki X-90, a two-seater with a quirky design produced from 1995 to 1997, was marketed as an SUV but resembled a Barbie toy car. Despite its awkward looks and weak 1.6-liter engine, it offered a removable roof for open-air driving and both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive options. Unsurprisingly, with only 7,000 sold in the U.S., the X-90 had a short run.

Source: U.S. News

1985 Yugo

The hype surrounding the 1985 Yugo promised a revolutionary car, but it turned out to be a disaster. The biggest culprit was its dangerously unpredictable steering, making driving a nerve-wracking experience. Consumers quickly lost faith, leading to a steep drop in value as everyone steered clear of the Yugo.

Source: HotCars

Kia Sportage

A budget-friendly, lightweight SUV, the Kia Sportage arrived in the U.S. during the early 1990s. Back then, it offered minimal comforts and a weak engine, compensated only by four-wheel drive. While boasting some modern features today, the Sportage remains underwhelming. It suffers from less cargo space, poorer gas mileage, and a less engaging driving experience than competitors.

Source: ALOT Auto

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Land Rover has built a reputation for reliable SUVs, but the Discovery Sport was a major letdown. The engine struggles, the interior feels uninspired, and the handling falls short of expectations. These shortcomings have landed the Discovery Sport on numerous “worst in class” lists.

Source: ALOT Auto

Chevrolet Aveo

The Chevrolet Aveo, a product of G.M.’s partnership with Daewoo, aimed to be an affordable and practical subcompact car. Debuting in the mid-2000s, it offered a city-friendly size and decent fuel economy. However, its budget-focused approach resulted in a cheap interior, unimpressive performance, and forgettable design, hindering its competition against more well-rounded rivals.

Source: ALOT Auto

Morris Marina

A British answer to the Ford Cortina, the Morris Marina offered no-frills practicality, much like its national cuisine. However, build quality and driving dynamics were its weak spots. With a bouncy suspension and vague steering, piloting a Marina was more of an unpredictable experience than a pleasurable drive. 

Source: ALOT Auto

SsangYong Rodius

The SsangYong Rodius, produced from 2005 to 2013, is known for its questionable design. Despite being inspired by luxury yachts, according to SsangYong, the look is a clash between a boxy early-2000s front and an awkwardly rounded rear. Functionality was prioritized, though, with the Rodius offering ample seating for seven. However, a slow engine and steep depreciation make it a less-than-ideal choice for most.

Source: U.S. News

REVAi

The REVAi, known as the G-Wiz in the U.K., was a tiny electric car produced in India from 2001 to 2012. Though intended as a practical and affordable E.V., this quadricycle with a lead-acid battery pack and a meager 50 mph top speed ended up being more novelty than a contender. Despite selling 4,600 globally, its cramped interior and questionable safety relegated it to the bottom rung of electric vehicle history.

Source: U.S. News

Daewoo Lanos

The Daewoo Lanos, launched in the 1990s as part of South Korea’s push into global auto sales, aimed to be a stylish and affordable compact car. Modern design and competitive pricing attracted budget-minded buyers seeking reliable transportation. However, compared to rivals, the Lanos faced criticism for its build quality, performance, and basic interior. Despite these shortcomings, the Lanos carved a niche for itself.

Source: ALOT Auto

Austin Allegro

A hallmark of 1970s Britain, the Austin Allegro promised a revolutionary family car with its unique design and features. However, its squared-off steering wheel and daring looks divided opinion. Earning the nickname “All Aggro” for its frequent breakdowns, the Allegro’s ambition was matched only by its unreliability. Despite (or perhaps due to) its faults, the Allegro holds a strange charm, a reminder of British eccentricity that’s probably best admired from afar.

Source: ALOT Auto

Chery QQ3

Chery, a Chinese brand, is notorious for producing cars made from cheap, low-quality parts that are often severely underpowered. The QQ3 represents the lowest tier of this brand’s offerings. In 2008, it was the most affordable new car in the world, available for $4,000 by 2012. However, don’t expect more than 70 horsepower from its three engine options or any standard safety features typically found in American cars.

Source: ALOT Auto

Citroën C3 Pluriel

The Citroën C3 Pluriel, France’s bold attempt at combining a convertible, coupe, and hatchback, left many perplexed. Its removable roof panels and versatile configurations promise a fun and adaptable driving experience. However, owners soon found that converting the Pluriel was complex and frustrating, with the roof mechanism prone to leaks and malfunctions. Despite its innovative spirit and playful design, the Pluriel was overshadowed by more practical and reliable competitors.

Source: ALOT Auto

Alfa Romeo Arna

The Alfa Romeo Arna, a collaboration between Italian style and Japanese engineering, was born from the partnership between Alfa Romeo and Nissan. Unfortunately, its awkward design and uninspiring performance left enthusiasts underwhelmed, while reliability issues plagued its reputation. Critics lamented its lack of charisma compared to Alfa Romeo’s usual offerings, and Nissan loyalists found it lacking in Japanese precision.

Source: ALOT Auto

Mitsubishi Mirage

A budget-friendly option since its arrival in 2014, the Mitsubishi Mirage has struggled to impress beyond its affordability. Critics find the handling dull, the interior lacking quality, and the overall driving experience hampered by noise and sluggish acceleration. Unsurprisingly, the Mirage consistently lands near the bottom of car reviewers’ rankings.

Source: ALOT Auto

Jaguar XE

Consumer Reports labeled the 2019 XE the worst compact luxury sedan due to its shortcomings in several areas. Compared to rides in the same category, the XE’s interior is disappointing because of low-quality materials and assembly. The infotainment system is glitchy, rear seat passengers find limited space, and the auto stop-start function is jerky and unpleasant.

Source: Consumer Reports