Consumer Reports Slaps ‘Avoid’ Label on 2023 Ford F-150
Consumer Reports (CR) is a popular magazine that carries a lot of weight with consumers when it comes to shopping for big-ticket items like cars and pickup trucks. In its latest issue, the magazine has labeled several machines with an ‘avoid’ label, including America’s best-selling vehicle, the 2023 Ford F-150. The magazine has given the F-150 an overall score of 58, contributing to the unflattering label.
According to CR, the F-150’s ride, handling, and reliability come up short. The group expects the 2023 F-150 to be less reliable than the average new car based on data from the 2021 and 2022 model years. However, CR’s own reporting shows that the pickup truck scored well on a CR road test (75 out of 100) and netted a 4 out of 5 result in predicted owner satisfaction.
The only truck in this class to earn a Better Choice rating was the 2023 Ram 1500, which scored an 83/100 on its road test and a 4/5 for owner satisfaction, giving it an overall score of 65. It is worth noting that other ‘better choice’ vehicles in other categories saw their total overall scores land in the mid-to-high 80s.
CR Takes the Easy Route with Tacoma and Ridgeline
Elsewhere on the list, CR takes the easy route by plastering an ‘avoid’ label on the current Tacoma, knowing full well that a brand-new and vastly improved model is on its way. While touting the miserable Ridgeline as a ‘better choice’ in its category, the group inexplicably states “The Tacoma outsells the Ridgeline about 6 to 1, but it shouldn’t,” before touting the Honda’s engine, ride, and handling.
Other Vehicles Getting Panned
Apart from the F-150, other vehicles that received a ‘avoid’ label from CR include the Hyundai Elantra, VW ID.4, and Chrysler Pacifica. In a hilarious bit of accidental theater that underscores just how convoluted these sorts of rankings can become, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is simultaneously listed as “Recommended” but also labeled as a “Popular Small SUV to Avoid”.
Better Choices
CR also has nice things to say about the Kia Telluride, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, and Subaru Forester. These vehicles are considered ‘better choices’ in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CR’s labeling of the 2023 Ford F-150 as a ‘popular full-sized pickup truck to avoid’ may raise eyebrows among consumers. However, it is worth noting that the truck scored well on CR’s road test and predicted owner satisfaction. The only truck in this class to earn a Better Choice rating was the 2023 Ram 1500. Consumers should take CR’s ratings with a grain of salt and do their research before making a purchase decision.
