10 Hybrid Vehicles Auto Experts Say You’ll Regret Owning in 2025

Hybrid cars promise better mileage and lower running costs, but not every model delivers on those expectations. According to auto experts and long-term owner reports, several hybrids suffer from battery failures, expensive repairs, and inconsistent reliability. Before you buy a used or new hybrid in 2025, here are the 10 models experts strongly recommend avoiding if you want to save money and avoid future headaches.

Ford F-150 Hybrid

Okay, first up, the Ford F-150 Hybrid. You’d think a hybrid version of America’s favorite truck would be like the ultimate boss move, right? But nope, not really. It’s got this reputation for battery and transmission problems, and people report issues with brakes, electronics, and all sorts of weird quirks. It’s super expensive too, like in the $50,000 to $70,000 range, depending on options. So yeah, it’s kinda scary to drop that kind of cash and then have to worry about pricey repairs. The tech is complicated, the reliability is kinda shaky, and honestly, fixing it can drain your wallet faster than you’ll save on gas. So yeah, maybe don’t rush into that one unless you really wanna roll the dice.

BMW ActiveHybrid 5

Now, the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 sounds fancy, ’cause BMW, right? But turns out, it doesn’t really deliver on the hybrid promises. It’s pricey, easily pushing $60k, but fuel economy is just okay, and there are reports of brake vibrations and some annoying reliability issues. Like, you’re paying for a luxury ride, but you kinda get a car that breaks promises on efficiency and reliability. Definitely a disappointment if you expect that smooth Bavarian magic.

Range Rover Evoque PHEV

Ah, the Evoque PHEV. It’s this cool looking SUV that screams style, but the love story ends when you look under the hood. It’s pricey, around $60k, but it’s plagued by electrical problems, body issues, infotainment headaches—you name it. And cramped rear seats? For an SUV? Weird flex. So unless you really want those sweet Instagram pics, it’s probably not the best day-to-day.

Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

Here’s one that sounds like a sweet deal—good tech, comfy interior, about $30k-ish—but owners complain a lot about transmission and brake issues. It’s like they got the specs right but messed up the execution, which is kinda frustrating. Plus, when people start talking about scary brakes, you kinda wanna take a step back. So yeah, looks good, but reliability is sketchy.

Volvo XC60 PHEV (2017)

Volvo’s got that safe-and-sound reputation, but this particular 2017 plug-in hybrid model had its share of electrical nightmares and recalls. It’s a fancy SUV with a price tag around $50k, but imagine dealing with airbag recalls and random electrical glitches. Not exactly the peace of mind you’d expect from Volvo.

Mercedes A-Class Hybrid (2019)

The cute little Mercedes A-Class hybrid? Well, the 2019 version had so many recalls it’s almost comical. Owners report all sorts of faults, and at around $40k, you want your car to just work, not act like a drama queen. I mean, it’s a fancy hatchback, but maybe stick to a regular gas one or wait for a more reliable hybrid.

Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid (2016)

This one’s budget-friendly if you’re looking used—like under $15k—but man, the 2016 Malibu Hybrid has got a crazy recall list: airbags, fuel lines, brakes, you name it. It’s kinda like the bargain that keeps bleeding money. Not fun.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (2018)

The Pacifica Hybrid seems perfect for families—space, hybrid savings, all that jazz—but the 2018 model has this “chaos machine” rep. Engine and suspension issues plus some serious electrical faults, and get this, even fire risks! If you got kids, maybe better just get a reliable SUV than deal with that kind of stress.

Ford Escape Hybrid (2020)

Affordable and practical, right? Except the 2020 Escape Hybrid has tons of complaints about freezing infotainment, engine glitches, and meh reliability scores. It drives okay but owning one is kinda like gambling if it’s gonna keep working or end up stuck in the shop.

Toyota Prius (2016)

Alright, Prius lovers, stay calm. The 2016 Prius isn’t bad overall, but it slipped in reliability compared to other years. More problems with infotainment and electronics than usual. It’s cheap now if you’re buying used, but maybe pick a different year if you want that bulletproof experience everyone talks about.