The worst cars of 2012

As the year winds to a close, it is natural to look back and recall the high points. But, it is also useful to remember the lows, including those cars that disappointed. Here, we commemorate the worst models in our ratings.

These are current vehicles that have the lowest overall test score, based on our more than 50 tests conducted at our 327-acre facility. A few have been around for years, while others have no such excuse, being new models that simply don't measure up from the get-go.

The list presents the vehicles in ascending rank order, starting with the lowest-scoring vehicle in our ratings.

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited: Jeep continues to update the Wrangler, adding more civility to the military-inspired off-roader. The latest Wrangler Unlimited we tested saw an increase in its overall test score, but it still earns just 20 out of 100 points. Key demerits are fuel economy (17 mpg), ride, handling, braking, wind noise, access, driving position, seat comfort, fit and finish, visibility, fuel economy, and reliability. That said, it does hold its value well and owners report a high level of satisfaction. But that legendary off-road reputation comes with numerous compromises compared against better-rated midsized SUVs.

Jeep Liberty: Mercifully, this model is discontinued. It actually scores worse than its predecessor and is the lowest-rated vehicle in its category. Its ride is unsettled, handling is clumsy, and the noisy engine guzzles gas. Its cramped interior is uncomfortable and sloppily finished. And if that isn't enough to turn you away from the remaining 2012 models, the Liberty carries a high depreciation rate, low predicted reliability, and owners are dissatisfied with it.

Smart ForTwo: Beyond head-turning proportions, quirky two-tone coloring, and ease of parking, there is little positive to say about this unique car. Smart it ain't. While the ForTwo returns 39 mpg overall in our fuel economy tests, it requires premium fuel negating some fuel savings in a truly head-scratching way. The 1.0-liter engine is adequate with urban traffic, but it is seriously challenged on highways. The ride is harsh, handling clumsy, and the transmission jerky. There are not only better cars for the price, but roomier, more comfortable, and more powerful choices.

Scion iQ: Toyota's clever take on the microcar brings notable innovations in packaging, but the car overall comes up short. Slow, noisy, and uncomfortable, the iQ's few positives include exceptionally easy parking, and its very good 34-mpg overall fuel economy. The extremely tiny rear seats won't make anyone riding in the second row happy, and the numb and overly quick steering makes the iQ less-than-enjoyable to drive. The iQ makes little sense unless you spend all of your time driving in a crowded city. Plenty of much-nicer cars cost about the same, get comparable fuel economy, and don't beat you up.