The Most Underrated Daily Driver Cars

When it comes to choosing a daily driver, most people gravitate toward popular models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Civic, or Ford F-150. These cars dominate the market for good reason—they’re reliable, practical, and widely available. However, there’s a whole world of underrated daily drivers that offer exceptional value, comfort, and driving dynamics without the mainstream recognition they deserve.

Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, comfort, driving engagement, or affordability, these overlooked gems provide a compelling alternative to the usual suspects. Let’s explore some of the most underrated daily driver cars across different categories.

1. Mazda6 (2014–2021)

Why It’s Underrated:

While the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord dominate the midsize sedan segment, the Mazda6 often flies under the radar despite offering superior driving dynamics, a premium interior, and excellent reliability.

Key Strengths:

Driving Experience: One of the best-handling midsize sedans, with sharp steering and a well-tuned suspension.
Interior Quality: Near-luxury cabin materials, especially in higher trims.
Fuel Efficiency: The Skyactiv-G engine balances power and efficiency, delivering up to 35 MPG highway.
Affordability: Often priced lower than competitors while offering more features.

Why It’s Overlooked:

Mazda’s smaller dealership network and less aggressive marketing mean many buyers default to Toyota or Honda without considering the Mazda6.

2. Buick Regal TourX (2018–2020)

Why It’s Underrated:

The Regal TourX is a rare breed—a European-designed, wagon-based crossover alternative that combines practicality with a surprisingly engaging drive.

Key Strengths:

Wagon Utility: 73 cubic feet of cargo space with a low load floor, making it more practical than many SUVs.
Comfortable Ride: Smooth suspension tuning ideal for long-distance cruising.
AWD Standard: All-wheel drive comes standard, enhancing traction in poor weather.
Unique Styling: Stands out in a sea of SUVs with its sleek wagon profile.

Why It’s Overlooked:

Wagons have never been popular in the U.S., and Buick’s brand image doesn’t resonate with younger buyers.

3. Kia Stinger (2018–2023)

Why It’s Underrated:

The Stinger is a performance-oriented liftback that rivals luxury sport sedans at a fraction of the price but never gained the traction it deserved.

Key Strengths:

Performance: The 3.3L twin-turbo V6 produces 365 HP, rivaling German competitors.
Practicality: Hatchback design offers more cargo space than traditional sedans.
Value: Loaded with tech and premium materials at a lower price than Audi or BMW.
Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel-drive-based platform with balanced handling.

Why It’s Overlooked:

Kia’s brand perception and the declining sedan market led to slow sales despite critical acclaim.

4. Subaru Legacy (2020–Present)

Why It’s Underrated:

While the Outback gets all the attention, the Legacy sedan is a fantastic daily driver with standard AWD, great safety tech, and a comfortable ride.

Key Strengths:

All-Wheel Drive Standard: Rare in the midsize sedan segment.
Safety: Subaru’s EyeSight system is one of the best driver-assistance suites available.
Smooth Ride: Excellent for long commutes with minimal road noise.
Turbo Option: The 2.4L turbo engine provides strong acceleration when needed.

Why It’s Overlooked:

Sedans are less popular than SUVs, and the Outback overshadows the Legacy in Subaru’s lineup.

5. Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017–2023, 2025–)

Why It’s Underrated:

Before Tesla dominated the EV market, the Bolt EV was one of the most affordable long-range electric cars—yet it never got the recognition it deserved.

Key Strengths:

Range: Over 250 miles per charge, making it practical for daily use.
Affordability: One of the cheapest EVs with long-range capability.
Compact Size: Easy to park and maneuver in urban areas.
Hatchback Utility: Surprisingly spacious cargo area for its size.

Why It’s Overlooked:

Chevrolet’s marketing focused more on trucks and SUVs, and early Bolt models had battery recall issues that hurt its reputation.

6. Lexus GS (2013–2020)

Why It’s Underrated:

The GS was Lexus’ sporty midsize luxury sedan, but it was overshadowed by the ES (more affordable) and the LS (flagship).

Key Strengths:

Reliability: Toyota-built V6 and V8 engines with legendary durability.
Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel-drive platform with available adaptive suspension.
Luxury Features: High-quality materials and advanced tech, especially in the F Sport trim.
Used Value: Depreciates more than German rivals, making it a great used buy.

Why It’s Overlooked:

The ES was cheaper and more popular, while the GS struggled to compete with BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class in terms of brand prestige.

7. Ford Fusion Hybrid (2013–2020)

Why It’s Underrated:

The Fusion Hybrid was one of the best hybrid sedans of its time, offering Toyota-level efficiency with better styling and driving dynamics.

Key Strengths:

Fuel Economy: Up to 42 MPG combined, rivaling the Prius.
Styling: Sleek, European-inspired design that aged well.
Comfortable Ride: Quiet cabin and smooth suspension.
Affordable Used Prices: Great value on the used market.

Why It’s Overlooked:

Ford discontinued sedans in favor of SUVs, and the Fusion Hybrid was never marketed as aggressively as the Prius.

Final Thoughts

The best daily drivers aren’t always the most popular ones. Many underrated cars offer superior comfort, driving dynamics, or value but get overlooked due to brand perception, marketing, or shifting market trends. If you’re in the market for a daily driver, consider these hidden gems—you might find a better car than the usual recommendations.

Would you drive any of these underrated models? Let us know in the comments!