These Vehicles Would Be Good If It Weren’t For One Massive Flaw, In keeping with Drivers

Each automobile fanatic has skilled it: that second once you encounter a car that appears to tick each field in your wishlist, solely to find one evident situation that holds it again from automotive perfection. Whether or not it’s a design alternative that defies logic, a mechanical quirk that drives you loopy, or a lacking characteristic that leaves you scratching your head, these “nearly good” automobiles symbolize a few of the most fascinating what-ifs in automotive historical past.

One automobile proprietor turned to Reddit (the place else?) to ask the query: “What automobile could be good, except for one main flaw?” As you could possibly have imagined, different automobile fanatics got here dashing to the thread to share their very own almost-perfect automobiles. So listed below are a few of the automobiles that may be good if it weren’t for one huge flaw, in accordance with the homeowners who nonetheless love them.

Alfa Romeo 4C: “No Handbook Transmission”

The Alfa Romeo 4C is automotive poetry in movement: a carbon fiber masterpiece that weighs simply 2,465 kilos and delivers pure, undiluted driving pleasure. Its mid-mounted 1.75-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 237 horsepower, Automobile and Driver famous in a assessment, which could not sound like a lot till you notice it delivers a power-to-weight ratio that rivals supercars costing 3 times as a lot. The 4C’s unique appears, razor-sharp dealing with, and intoxicating exhaust word make it probably the most fascinating reasonably priced sports activities automobiles ever created.

But regardless of all these virtues, fanatics constantly level to 1 lacking ingredient: a correct guide transmission. The 4C comes solely with a dual-clutch automated, robbing drivers of the tactile connection that makes light-weight sports activities automobiles so particular. Whereas the DCT shifts rapidly and effectively, it eliminates the enjoyment of heel-toe downshifting and clutch work that may have made this already distinctive automobile completely transcendent. Many argue {that a} guide gearbox would have remodeled the 4C from an excellent sports activities automobile into a real fashionable basic.

Mazda Miata: “Wants 10% Extra Room Inside”

The Mazda Miata has earned its popularity because the world’s best-selling roadster by means of many years of refined driving dynamics and pure pleasure per greenback. Its good 50/50 weight distribution, communicative steering, and eager-to-please nature have made it the go-to suggestion for anybody in search of an reasonably priced sports activities automobile expertise. The present ND era continues this custom with sharp dealing with, a sweet-revving engine, and that indefinable high quality that makes each drive really feel like a special day.

Nonetheless, the Miata’s Achilles heel stays its microscopic inside dimensions and just about nonexistent cargo area. At 5’10” or taller, many drivers discover themselves uncomfortably cramped, with knees pressed towards the dashboard and heads brushing the delicate high. The trunk, in the meantime, can barely accommodate a weekend bag, making the Miata impractical for something past solo day journeys.

Whereas purists argue this minimalism is a part of the automobile’s appeal, many potential patrons stroll away just because they will’t bodily match or carry what they want for longer journeys. However these pop-up headlights although…

Nissan Maxima: “That Terrible Jatco CVT”

The Nissan Maxima has lengthy been positioned because the “four-door sports activities automobile” in Nissan’s lineup, and the present era delivers on that promise with muscular styling and spectacular efficiency credentials. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, offering genuinely fast acceleration and a satisfying exhaust word. The Maxima’s inside options premium supplies, comfy seating, and superior expertise, whereas its dealing with strikes a pleasant stability between consolation and sportiness that appeals to driving fanatics who want 4 doorways.

Sadly, all the Maxima’s strengths are undermined by its Jatco CVT transmission, which has grow to be synonymous with reliability points and uninspiring driving dynamics. The CVT’s rubber-band impact kills the connection between throttle enter and acceleration, making the highly effective V6 really feel sluggish and unresponsive. Worse nonetheless, Jatco CVTs have developed a popularity for untimely failure, with many house owners dealing with costly repairs outdoors of guarantee. A conventional automated or perhaps a guide transmission would have made the Maxima a professional contender towards the perfect sport sedans available on the market.

Jeep Wagoneer: “If Solely It Have been Dependable”

The return of the Jeep Wagoneer nameplate introduced with it real pleasure amongst SUV fanatics who remembered the unique’s mix of functionality and luxurious. The trendy Wagoneer delivers spectacular towing capability, real off-road means, and a spacious three-row inside wrapped in premium supplies and loaded with superior expertise. Its commanding presence on the street and distinctive styling assist it stand out in a crowded luxurious SUV phase. On the similar time, its aggressive pricing makes it a sexy different to German and Japanese rivals.

Nonetheless, early reliability studies have been troubling (you’ll be able to see loads of points on CarComplaints), with homeowners experiencing points starting from electrical gremlins to transmission issues and high quality management lapses. These reliability considerations are notably damaging for a car positioned as a premium household hauler, the place dependability ought to be paramount. Whereas Jeep has labored to handle these points by means of software program updates and improved manufacturing processes, the reliability query mark continues to hold over what might in any other case be a wonderful massive SUV alternative.

Acura RSX Sort S: “It Would Have Been Good With RWD”

The Acura RSX Sort S stays probably the most beloved front-wheel-drive sports activities coupes ever produced, due to its legendary K20A2 engine that screamed to eight,000 RPM and delivered 200 horsepower from simply 2.0 liters. Its exact six-speed guide transmission, aggressive styling, and Honda reliability made it a favourite amongst fanatics who appreciated its rev-happy character and comparatively reasonably priced value level. The Sort S proved that front-wheel drive might ship real thrills when executed correctly, incomes a loyal following that persists at the moment.

But regardless of its many virtues, the RSX Sort S at all times carried the burden of being front-wheel drive in a phase the place rear-wheel drive was thought of important for correct sports activities automobile credentials. Whereas Honda’s engineering largely overcame the inherent limitations of FWD by means of intelligent suspension tuning and a limited-slip differential, many fanatics felt that the automobile’s sensible engine and transmission deserved a rear-wheel-drive platform. The shortcoming to power-slide by means of corners or execute correct heel-toe downshifts with out torque steer left many feeling that the RSX Sort S was an amazing automobile that might have been legendary with pushed rear wheels.

Toyota Tacoma: “Insanely Cramped and Uncomfortable to Drive”

The Toyota Tacoma has dominated the mid-size truck phase for years due to its legendary reliability, sturdy resale worth, and confirmed off-road functionality. Its TRD variants supply real trail-ready options like crawl management, multi-terrain choose, and skid plates, whereas the usual fashions present the proper mix of functionality and effectivity for many truck patrons. The Tacoma’s popularity for working eternally with minimal upkeep has made it the default alternative for contractors, out of doors fanatics, and anybody who wants a reliable work truck.

Regardless of these strengths, many drivers complain in regards to the Tacoma’s uncomfortable driving expertise, notably on longer journeys. The seats lack satisfactory help and cushioning, resulting in fatigue on prolonged drives, whereas the suspension tuning prioritizes off-road functionality over on-road consolation. Highway noise is extreme, the journey high quality is harsh over tough pavement, and the driving place feels awkward for a lot of drivers. These consolation points forestall the Tacoma from being the whole bundle that its reliability and functionality counsel it ought to be, leaving many patrons selecting much less reliable however extra comfy options.

Lexus LFA: “If The Worth Have been Decrease”

The Lexus LFA stands as one of many biggest automotive achievements of the twenty first century, that includes a naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V10 that produces probably the most intoxicating exhaust notes ever created. Its carbon fiber building, subtle aerodynamics, and precision engineering resulted in a supercar that might compete with the perfect from Ferrari and Lamborghini. The LFA’s improvement took practically a decade and showcased Lexus’s means to create one thing really extraordinary when value was no object, incomes common reward from automotive journalists and fanatics worldwide.

Nonetheless, the LFA’s $375,000 price ticket, which Lexus introduced in 2010, put it out of attain for all however the wealthiest collectors, limiting its impression and stopping most fanatics from ever experiencing its brilliance firsthand. Whereas the automobile’s efficiency and engineering justified its value from a improvement standpoint, the pricing meant it competed towards established supercars with extra prestigious badges and confirmed monitor information. Many argue that pricing the LFA nearer to $200,000 would have made it accessible to severe driving fanatics whereas nonetheless sustaining its unique character, probably cementing its standing as one of many biggest driver’s automobiles ever created.

Stated one driver: “The Lexus LFA could be good if Toyota hadn’t wasted a lot cash producing it and the value was decrease.”

Suzuki Swift Sport Hybrid: “If It Have been Protected”

The Suzuki Swift Sport represents all the pieces fanatics love about light-weight, nimble sports activities automobiles: minimal weight, responsive dealing with, and an reasonably priced price ticket that makes driving pleasure accessible to everybody. Its turbocharged 1.4-liter engine offers satisfactory energy whereas returning spectacular gas financial system, and the automobile’s diminutive dimension makes it extremely enjoyable to drive on twisty roads. The Swift Sport’s playful character and European-tuned suspension ship smiles per gallon that few automobiles can match at any value level.

Nonetheless, security considerations have prevented the Swift Sport from gaining wider acceptance, notably in markets with strict security requirements. Crash check rankings have been disappointing, with considerations about structural integrity in severe accidents. The automobile’s mild weight, whereas helpful for efficiency and effectivity, works towards it in collision eventualities the place mass and strong security constructions are essential. Whereas Suzuki has labored to enhance security rankings in newer variations, the notion of the Swift Sport as much less protected than rivals continues to restrict its enchantment amongst safety-conscious patrons who would possibly in any other case admire its driving dynamics.

Toyota GR86: “Wants Extra Than 82 HP”

The Toyota GR86 represents all the pieces proper about fashionable sports activities automobile design: rear-wheel drive, guide transmission, good weight distribution, and a value that doesn’t require promoting a kidney. Its naturally aspirated 2.4-liter boxer engine delivers linear energy supply and a satisfying exhaust word, whereas the automobile’s low middle of gravity and balanced chassis make it extremely rewarding to drive at any velocity. The GR86 proves that fashionable sports activities automobiles don’t have to be difficult or costly to ship real thrills, incomes reward from automotive journalists and fanatics worldwide.

But regardless of common popularity of its dealing with and character, the GR86’s 228-horsepower output leaves many drivers wanting extra. Whereas the automobile is undeniably enjoyable at authorized speeds, its modest energy determine means it could really feel sluggish in straight-line acceleration, notably when in comparison with scorching hatches and muscle automobiles that value related cash. Many fanatics argue that a further 50-75 horsepower would remodel the GR86 from an excellent sports activities automobile into an ideal one, offering the thrust wanted to match its distinctive chassis dynamics with equally spectacular acceleration.

BMW E92 M3: “Rod Bearing Points”

The BMW E92 M3 stands as one of many biggest sports activities automobiles of the 2000s, that includes a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 that screams to eight,300 RPM and produces 414 horsepower of pure automotive ecstasy. Its completely balanced chassis, exact steering, and aggressive styling made it the benchmark for sports activities coupes, whereas its daily-drivable consolation meant homeowners might take pleasure in its efficiency capabilities each day. The E92 M3’s mixture of track-ready efficiency and livability represented the BMW M division at its absolute peak.

Sadly, the E92 M3’s popularity has been tarnished by well-documented rod bearing points that may result in catastrophic engine failure. This downside, which usually manifests between 60,000 and 80,000 miles, requires costly preventive upkeep or dangers full engine destruction. Whereas the problem might be addressed by means of proactive bearing alternative, the $3,000-5,000 value and the anxiousness of potential failure have scared away many potential patrons from what would in any other case be thought of top-of-the-line M automobiles ever constructed. This single reliability concern has prevented the E92 M3 from reaching the legendary standing its efficiency deserves.

Volkswagen Golf Mk8: “Lack of Bodily Buttons”

The Volkswagen Golf Mk8 represents the most recent evolution of Europe’s hottest hatchback, bringing superior expertise, environment friendly powertrains, and the refined driving dynamics which have made the Golf a benchmark in its class for many years. Its digital cockpit and infotainment system showcase cutting-edge expertise, whereas the out there engines present glorious gas financial system with out sacrificing efficiency. The Golf’s construct high quality, inside area, and general refinement proceed to set requirements that rivals battle to match.

Nonetheless, Volkswagen’s determination to exchange practically all bodily controls with touch-sensitive surfaces and buried menu capabilities has created a person expertise nightmare that frustrates drivers every day. Easy duties like adjusting the local weather management or radio quantity now require a number of touches and menu diving, creating harmful distractions whereas driving. The shortage of tactile suggestions from capacitive buttons makes it unattainable to function controls by really feel, forcing drivers to take their eyes off the street for primary capabilities. This misguided pursuit of technological development has remodeled routine operations into irritating workout routines that detract from what ought to be a wonderful driving expertise.

Plymouth Prowler: “Not a Handbook”

The Plymouth Prowler stands as probably the most visually hanging and distinctive automobiles ever to roll off a manufacturing line, with its scorching rod-inspired design, uncovered wheels, and aggressive stance creating an prompt basic that regarded like nothing else on the street. Its aluminum building and complex suspension design demonstrated real engineering innovation, whereas its distinctive styling made each drive really feel like a special day. The Prowler proved that mainstream producers might take dangers and create genuinely thrilling automobiles when given the liberty to experiment.

But for all its visible drama and engineering sophistication, the Prowler’s automatic-only transmission basically undermined its scorching rod character and efficiency potential. The four-speed automated was not solely sluggish and uninspiring however fully at odds with the automobile’s aggressive styling and manual-shift aesthetic. A correct guide transmission would have remodeled the driving expertise and given the Prowler the genuine scorching rod character its appears promised. This single oversight prevented what might have been an prompt basic from reaching its full potential as each a efficiency automobile and a mode icon. One other cool sports activities automobile misplaced to an automated.

Vary Rover Sport V8: “It’s Not Identified For Reliability”

The Vary Rover Sport V8 represents luxurious SUV engineering at its most interesting, combining real off-road functionality with on-road efficiency that rivals many sports activities sedans. Its supercharged V8 engine delivers explosive acceleration and a soundtrack that befits its premium positioning, whereas the superior air suspension offers each consolation on the freeway and severe functionality on difficult terrain. The Sport’s mixture of luxurious appointments, cutting-edge expertise, and unmistakable presence makes it probably the most fascinating SUVs in its class.

Sadly, reliability considerations have plagued the Vary Rover Sport all through its manufacturing run, with homeowners regularly reporting costly electrical points, air suspension failures, and engine issues that may value hundreds to restore. These reliability woes are notably irritating given the car’s premium pricing and luxurious positioning, the place homeowners rightfully anticipate reliable operation. Whereas Land Rover has labored to handle these points in newer fashions, the model’s popularity for reliability issues continues to discourage potential patrons who would possibly in any other case admire the Sport’s distinctive mixture of luxurious and functionality.

Stated one upset proprietor: “It may well off-road effectively, it’s comfy, very luxurious, has an amazing sound system, appears unbelievable, has 500 hp, air suspension, can tow so much, might be outfitted with as much as seven seats. Nevertheless it’s not identified for reliability.”

Toyota Crown: “Why the Heck isn’t it a Hatchback As an alternative of a Sedan?”

The Toyota Crown represents a daring reimagining of the standard three-box sedan, with hanging styling that mixes SUV-like floor clearance with sedan proportions and a particular fastback roofline. Its hybrid powertrain delivers spectacular gas financial system and satisfactory efficiency, whereas the inside showcases high-quality supplies and superior expertise that mirror Toyota’s premium ambitions. The Crown’s distinctive positioning and attention-grabbing design assist it stand out in a phase the place differentiation has grow to be more and more troublesome.

But regardless of its many virtues, the Crown’s sedan physique type appears like a missed alternative when its rakish roofline and elevated stance counsel it ought to have been designed as a sensible hatchback or taking pictures brake. The restricted trunk opening – which one proprietor known as “the strangest trunk opening on teh market” – and conventional sedan proportions compromise practicality, whereas the automobile’s adventurous styling suggests a extra versatile physique type would higher match its character. A hatchback configuration would have improved cargo flexibility and created a extra cohesive design that matched the Crown’s daring aesthetic with equally daring performance.

McLaren 720S: “Electrical Points Have to be Sorted Out”

The McLaren 720S represents the head of recent supercar engineering, with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 producing 710 horsepower and propelling the automobile to 60 mph in simply 2.7 seconds, in accordance with McLaren. Its carbon fiber building, lively aerodynamics, and complex suspension techniques create a driving expertise that feels extra like piloting a fighter jet than driving a automobile. The 720S’s mixture of brutal efficiency and shocking every day usability has earned it recognition as one of many biggest supercars ever created.

Sadly, electrical gremlins have plagued many 720S homeowners, with points starting from infotainment failures to extra severe issues with the automobile’s numerous digital techniques. These reliability considerations are notably irritating in a automobile costing over $300,000, the place homeowners anticipate flawless operation to match the premium price ticket. Whereas McLaren has labored to handle these points by means of software program updates and improved high quality management, {the electrical} issues have tarnished the popularity of what would in any other case be thought of a contemporary masterpiece of automotive engineering.

Toyota Corolla: “Give It a Higher Suspension/Steering Setup”

The Toyota Corolla continues to be one in all America’s best-selling automobiles due to its legendary reliability, glorious gas financial system, and reasonably priced pricing that makes transportation accessible to thousands and thousands of drivers. Its spacious inside, complete security options, and low value of possession make it a great alternative for practical-minded patrons who prioritize dependability over driving pleasure. The Corolla’s popularity for working a whole lot of hundreds of miles with minimal upkeep has made it a default suggestion for first-time automobile patrons and budget-conscious customers.

Nonetheless, the Corolla’s suspension tuning prioritizes consolation and price over driving engagement, leading to a disconnected, numb driving expertise that fails to encourage confidence or pleasure. The steering lacks suggestions, the suspension wallows by means of corners, and the general driving dynamics really feel extra suited to a a lot bigger, heavier car. Whereas Toyota has improved the Corolla’s dealing with in current generations, it nonetheless lags behind rivals just like the Honda Civic and Mazda3 that show reasonably priced automobiles might be each sensible and pleasurable to drive.

“Toyota Corolla and driving really feel,” one driver mentioned of its deadly flaw. “Legendary reliability, the present ones are excellent trying in my view, notably in XSE trim, out there as a hybrid + AWD, nevertheless it’s probably the most disconnected feeling automobiles I’ve pushed. Give it a greater suspension/steering setup and perhaps a bit extra cabin sound insulation, and it will likely be a well-rounded automobile.”

Conclusion

These automotive near-misses remind us that perfection in automobile design is commonly only one determination away. Whether or not it’s a transmission alternative, a reliability situation, or a elementary design philosophy, these single flaws forestall in any other case glorious automobiles from reaching automotive immortality. The excellent news for fanatics is that many of those points are being addressed by producers who hearken to buyer suggestions, suggesting that future generations of those automobiles would possibly lastly obtain the perfection their predecessors got here so tantalizingly near reaching.

Ultimately, these “nearly good” automobiles function invaluable classes for each producers and customers. They display that nice engineering and design might be undermined by a single poor determination, whereas additionally exhibiting that no automobile is ideal for everybody. Maybe that’s what makes the automotive world so fascinating: the limitless pursuit of that elusive good car that checks each field for each driver.