by Laura Beck
Not all hybrid cars are created equal. While some models offer excellent fuel efficiency, reliability and performance, others fall short. With so many options, it can be tough to separate the good from not-as-good.
The seven models covered in this article, despite their eco-friendly appeal, have demonstrated various issues that potential buyers should be aware of.
2020 Ford Escape Hybrid
The 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid is a fuel-efficient SUV that offers great fuel economy, but it has also been reported to have a few significant issues.
The SUV’s transmission is one of the most commonly reported problems. Owners have reported experiencing rough, abrupt shifting and some have had to rebuild or replace the whole transmission.
2014 & 2015 Nissan Pathfinder HEV
“The Pathfinder Hybrid models from these years experienced problems with their braking systems and electrical issues,” said Giranda. “Some owners reported less responsive brakes, which is a major safety concern. Additionally, electrical glitches in the infotainment and navigation systems were common, detracting from the overall reliability of the vehicle.”
Owners have reported several other common problems with the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid model including shuddering and vibration when shifting. There have also been reports of the vehicle not accelerating after a panic stop.
2011-2015 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid
This hybrid was a draw for its speed, but the severity of the recalls were not a good tradeoff. The primary problem seen was the lack of drainage under the battery which caused it to short circuit and in some cases catch on fire. “VW determined water could enter without the rear hatch open because the sunroof drains and rear lid seals weren’t assembled correctly,” according to VWProblems.
In addition, there was a recall for a missing clip for the brake pedal pivot pin which allowed the brake pedal to come off and another for a leak in the fuel injection system.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the only plug-in hybrid minivan on the market. Despite its practicality and above-average EV range, it’s been reported to have multiple recalls and issues with its hybrid battery.
Another issue commonly reported by owners is with the electrical system, which could be a significant concern considering the hybrid nature of the vehicle.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Owners love the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu for its spacious interior and excellent fuel economy. But some owners have reported engine failures and problems with the fuel sensor. There have also been reports of issues with reduced power, which could potentially lead to dangerous situations on the road.
Additionally, there have been six recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, including one for leaking transmission fluid. Despite some positive reviews, the overall consensus points to reliability issues with this vehicle.
2017 BMW X5 Hybrid
The 2017 BMW X5 hybrid is a luxury SUV with strong performance and a luxurious cabin. According to reviews on Edmunds, the vehicle offers a comfortable ride and sporty handling. However, owners have reported having issues with the brakes, such as experiencing pulsation or vibration, and problems with the antilock system and calipers, squeaking and brake failure.
4 Best Hybrid Cars of 2024 for People on Frugal Budgets
by Nicole Spector
Though electric vehicles are all the rage these days, in part because of the tax credits that many now qualify for, they’re not always the ideal choice for consumers. Not only do they require more planning and strategy — given that you need to charge them regularly, which can be challenging when embarking on long road trips — they’re also typically much more expensive than traditional cars, which makes owning them quite difficult for people on a tight budget.
Perhaps you can have the best of both worlds: a hybrid car, which uses both electronic technology and gas. They sport far better fuel economy than traditional cars and are more eco-friendly, too. But there are so many hybrid cars on the market these days, which can make it difficult for you to determine which ones are the best for your budget.
2024 Kia Niro Hybrid
Kias have a great reputation. For example, Kia was named the Most Dependable Mass Market Brand in 2023 by J.D. Power.
Hanley — and Cars.com at large — are really digging the 2024 Kia Niro Hybrid.
“Redesigned last year, the Kia Niro Hybrid won Cars.com’s Best Car of 2023 award thanks to its compelling combination of style, efficiency, utility and value,” Hanley said. “With EPA-estimated gas mileage as high as 53 mpg combined and added practicality, courtesy of its hatchback body style, the Niro Hybrid offers a lot of practicality at a starting price of around $28,000, including destination.”
2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid
The 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a pickup truck that can do “a little work when you need it to, gets good gas mileage and doesn’t cost a ton,” Hanley said.
“With its available hybrid drivetrain, the Maverick is EPA-rated an impressive 37 mpg combined, and its starting price is a little less than $27,000,” Hanley said. “Its payload capacity is a respectable 1,500 pounds, and it can even tow a small trailer if you need it to.”
2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Who doesn’t love a Toyota Corolla? It’s a tried and true car that has select models renowned for their high reliability.
“With a starting price of less than $25,000, including destination, and up to 50 mpg combined, according to the EPA, the Corolla Hybrid compact sedan is an efficient, affordable choice that delivers a decent driving experience, too,” Hanley said. “Available all-wheel drive increases the starting price to around $26,000 and lowers efficiency a bit, but it’s a nice option to have if you’re concerned about foul-weather traction.”
2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid
The 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid is an excellent choice for those on a frugal budget who are looking for more wiggle room than the 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid.
“The mid-size Camry Hybrid has more space for people and cargo,” Hanley said.
Often, larger cars don’t get as impressive fuel economy. That’s not the case with this one.
“Even though it’s a bigger car, it actually gets better estimated gas mileage — as high as 52 mpg combined,” Hanley said. “You pay a bit more for the extra room and efficiency, however, as the Camry Hybrid starts around $30,000.”
Do Hybrid Cars Always Cost More Than Other Cars? Not Necessarily
When looking for a new hybrid car, you may be comparing price points to traditional cars — especially if you’re on a frugal budget. The nice news is that the price of 2024 hybrids, generally, isn’t much more expensive than good ‘ole regular cars that are fresh off the lot.
“When you look at all new hybrid vehicles, including larger vehicles and luxury models, the average price for the class is approaching $50,000 — similar to the average price of new cars in general,” Hanley said. “The prices of these vehicles [listed] significantly undercut this average.”
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