6 New Cars in 2026 That Aren't Worth the Cost
Not every 2026 model is worth the cost. The average new car price in December 2025 was $50,326, a record high, according to Kelley Blue Book (KBB).
Chris Pyle, an auto expert with JustAnswer, says that many newer models come with tech and plush features that drive up the cost of the vehicle. "All of these things make cars through the roof expensive. It is hard to find a basic car or truck at a low cost," he explained.
But unnecessary features aren't the only things making some 2026 models not worth the cost. Here's what the experts have to say.
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Tesla Model S
"Within five years, the Model S is likely to lose 50% or more of its value. So even if you maintain your car and keep it clean and shiny, you'll lose $40K to $50K to depreciation in five years," explained Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org. "You could buy a reliable, good-value vehicle for what you'll save by not driving a Model S."
The 2026 Tesla Model S has a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $86,630 and goes up to $101,630 for the Plaid trim level, according to KBB. CarEdge reports that the Tesla Model S could depreciate even more quickly, estimating the model will depreciate 69% after five years and have a resale value of $28,370.
Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63
"In my opinion, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz G63 is significantly overpriced," Zoriy Birenboym, CEO of eAutoLease.com, wrote in an email. According to Mercedes-Benz USA, the starting MSRP is $195,500. Pyle also pointed out that the Mercedes G-class isn't worth the cost, as well as the S-class, SL, GLE, E-class and AMG.
"While the base MSRP is already extremely high, many buyers are also facing dealer markups well above sticker. Pricing escalated dramatically during and after COVID, and those inflated numbers have stuck," Birenboym added. "At nearly $230,000 and often $30,000 or more over MSRP, the value simply doesn't match the price."
GMC Yukon Denali
"The Yukon Denali is loaded with luxurious features, but it comes with a high price tag," Musson wrote in an email. Pyle added the Denali to his list as well. According to GMC, the Yukon Denali has a starting MSRP of $80,400.
"It depreciates quickly, and with such a high starting price, the loss is major. You can get a similar full-size SUV with as much power and reliability, but 25% to 30% less expensive," Musson added.
High-End Luxury Trucks
According to Birenboym, most 2026 high-end luxury trucks aren't worth the price tag.
"A nicely equipped luxury truck can approach a $230,000 MSRP and frequently sells well above that. There's nothing about these vehicles that justifies that price point," he explained. "At that level, buyers could reasonably consider ultra-luxury performance SUVs instead, which deliver far more in terms of performance, brand prestige and overall driving experience."
Pyle also pointed out that prices can increase substantially for half-ton, three-fourths-ton and one-ton trucks in high-end trim levels. "These trim packages can add 40% to the vehicle cost," he said. "It is a truck that is meant to tow/haul."
Nissan Altima
"This is the last year for the Altima, and when a car is discontinued, people tend to shy away from it in the used-car market," Musson noted. The 2026 Nissan Altima has a more affordable starting MSRP of $28,825, according to KBB, and goes up to $31,725 for the SR trim level with all-wheel drive (AWD).
"So, if you buy an Altima, you can expect it to lose value even more quickly than it has in the past," Musson said.
Porsche 911 Targa
"The 2026 Porsche 911 Targa models are also pushing past the $200,000 mark. While they're well-engineered vehicles, current pricing reflects demand and market conditions more than actual value," Birenboym wrote.
Last year, Porsche Cars North America announced that it passed its previous U.S. retail deliveries record, making it the strongest sales year in PCNA's history.
"For many buyers, the cost outweighs the real-world benefits compared to other performance cars in the same range," he noted.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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