The Most Underrated Vehicles In 2021

With demand outpacing the supply of new vehicles on the market, it might be time to look to the underdogs: the most underrated vehicles on sale today. While these makes and models don’t necessarily lack in safety or performance, they face tough competition from heavy-hitting advertising budgets and consumer behavior. It’s time to shed some light on the models that tend to fall behind, yet still have our attention. 

Assess our compiled list of the most underrated cars in 2021. In our opinion, these are the ones you should consider buying or leasing this year. Especially when the lack of inventory at your favorite dealership hits home.  

The hidden gems of the automotive market in 2021

We will admit, in today’s standards, it’s pretty extraordinary the options that consumers have available to them. Every type of SUV you could dream of, from subcompact to full-size. All the sporty sedans that still manage to convey luxury. How do buyers choose? The fact of the matter is that car buying becomes subjective to everyone. No matter how much an advertisement might push you into the dealership, you have to love the feel and drive of a vehicle. 

With that said, there are a number of vehicles that don’t get the recognition they should. We like to call them the underdogs, but in all reality these are the most underrated vehicles for sale today. Take our opinion lightly as we can all be a little biased at times. But without doubt, these cars are worth looking into this year. 

Here are the most underrated vehicles in 2021:

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi is not a name brand you typically think of here in the U.S. Especially when shopping for compact SUVs. Although they offer a small lineup of models, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander ranks fairly against the more popular Ford Escape, Honda CRV, and standard trim Rogue. 

With available Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, and safety features like adaptive cruise and lane-keep assist, the Outlander offers the modern amenities that all its competitors have. Although lacking a bit in transmission performance, the 2022 model is catching up to the times. You might as well give it a test drive. 

The Mitsubishi Outlander is perfect for the whole family and equally at home in the city or the countryside with its spacious interior and versatile nature. It is ready for anything. #OutlanderStyle

Book a test drive today: https://t.co/PzgtKnhN4i pic.twitter.com/5dpV5DrCgB

— Mitsubishi SA (@mitsu_motors) July 9, 2021

Kia Forte GT

The Kia Forte continually ranks high for being one of the best buys under $20,000. However, the Kia Forte GT sings a different tune. It’s comparable to the Jetta GLI, undeniably fun to drive with a quality interior to match. Not to mention a turbo-charged engine and standard manual transmission for those miss the feel of the road. 

With the release of the 2022 model coming later this year, this is one underdog to keep watch of. We’ve heard there’s mention of a possible name change, improved headlight and taillight design, and new wheel design that will likely initiate more buyers in the years to come. Perhaps, its popularity will rise, leaving behind its most underrated vehicle position in the past. 

Lincoln Aviator 

When the Lincoln Aviator first graced its presence on the automotive market back in 2003, the response was impressive. For those who couldn’t take on the price tag and size of the Lincoln Navigator, the Aviator became full game. However, after initial years of trouble, its production didn’t last long. 

In the last few years we’ve seen the Lincoln Aviator rebirth. Yet with not enough attention. Thinking of getting a tricked out Ford Explorer? Just the Platinum trim will cost you $59,000 base price. Check out the Lincoln Aviator for a change. Its style, luxury interior, and comfort is one to indulge in. 

Subaru Impreza

When you’re looking for a reliable, no frills type of vehicle, the Subaru Impreza is hard to beat. It’s one of our favorite most underrated vehicles on the automotive market. Available as a sedan or hatchback, this standard all-wheel drive compact starts at a MSRP of $18,795. It’s easily one of the few small sedans that holds its value well. A quality that is notorious of the Subaru brand. 

We can’t forget to mention its spacious passenger seating and legroom. The interior comfort and handling capabilities keep us enthralled by this buy. For the price, the Subaru Impreza peaked our interest this year. 

Why you should consider the most underrated vehicles 

In truth, there’s not an automotive brand out there that you can’t find at least one make and model to speak home of. We consider these most underrated vehicles as real gems, hidden among a powerful force of mass market vehicles. The ones you can find dime a dozen. In our opinion, these vehicles are at least worth a test drive on your next car shopping endeavor. Who knows — you might just fall in love! 

Have you driven the most underrated vehicles? Share your experience below.