These 10 Hybrid Cars Have Major Reliability Issues Don’t Buy Them

Buying a hybrid car sounds like a smart move better mileage, lower emissions, and fewer visits to the pump. But not every hybrid delivers the reliability and long-term value buyers expect. Some models suffer from expensive battery failures, poor build quality, confusing tech problems, and costly repairs that show up sooner than expected. To help you avoid a bad purchase, we’ve rounded up 10 hybrid vehicles that owners and experts consistently warn against. Before you spend your money, here are the hybrids you should stay far away from in 2025.

Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

Okay, the Grand Cherokee 4xe, starting around $50,000, is Jeep’s plug-in hybrid flex. Classic rugged looks, comfy inside, seems like a dream for off-road and eco-conscious folks. But then, oh boy, the tech glitches, battery problems, and the fact that it’s heavy as heck make it a drag on mileage sometimes. Not gonna lie, you expect Jeep to be tough, but this hybrid variant kinda struggles. So yeah, maybe stick to a regular Jeep or another hybrid for that matter.

Toyota RAV4 Prime

Ah, the RAV4 Prime. It’s pricey at about $45,000, super fast for a hybrid, and a solid EV range for a plug-in. It’s got all those safety features and that dependable Toyota vibe… but, uh, the reliability scores aren’t as shiny as the brand’s rep suggests. Electronics acting up and, weirdly, some drivetrain issues show up in owner complaints. Honestly, I was surprised. I mean, it’s still probably better than most, but if you want a sure bet, maybe think twice.

Ford Escape Hybrid

The Escape Hybrid, dropping in at around $33,000, is supposed to be this perfect city SUV with good fuel economy. Sporty trims, hybrid tech, decent looks. But, man, reports of battery failures, brake wear, and some random leaks? Not cute. I was expecting more from Ford on this one. So yeah, if you’re hunting for reliable hybrid, this one makes me kinda hesitant to recommend.

Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

Starting about $35,000, the Tucson Hybrid has this super modern design, nice tech package and a smooth drive. It’s loaded with features and looks stylish. But there’s this issue with the batteries heating up too much and some owners complain about unexpected check-engine lights. I mean, Hyundai’s been stepping up lately, but with hybrids, this model feels a bit iffy. That makes me kinda wish I looked elsewhere.

Honda CR-V Hybrid

The CR-V Hybrid, around $32,000, usually a solid choice, spacey and reliable. But surprisingly, it’s had some early reliability hiccups lately; weird software bugs and some drivetrain complaints. I always thought Honda hybrids were rock solid, but this year’s model tossing me some curveballs. So yeah, maybe check newer reviews before jumping in.

Kia Sorento Hybrid

Sorento Hybrid, starts about $39,000. It’s roomy and looks snazzy, with decent power and tech options. But it’s been flagged for battery troubles and some minor electrical faults. Compared to its sibling, the Tucson, oddly less reliable, making me question if size plus hybrid tech is a bad combo sometimes. Tiny joke: bigger doesn’t always mean better, huh?

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

This one’s around $42,000 and is a plug-in with decent EV range and all-wheel drive. Sounded promising for families. But early reports have battery issues and charging annoyances. Plus, it’s on the pricier side for a not-so-smooth driving experience. I mean, if you want PHEV, there are better rides out there. Just saying.

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The Crosstrek Hybrid, roughly $37,000, looks like a fun compact SUV with some off-road chops and decent comfy interior. It’s Subaru though, so you expect good build quality. But the hybrid system has been reported glitchy with premature battery drop-offs. Not really what you want for a pricey Subaru. I mean, maybe it’s the price you pay for trying to save the planet in style, right?

Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring

Lincoln’s hybrid offering, coming in around $58,000, is posh and luxurious with lots of tech and sharp looks. It tries for a smooth quiet ride and eco cred, but owners have flagged reliability issues, glitches in infotainment, and unexpected mechanical faults. Honestly, at that price, you want trouble-free. So, so yeah, it’s a hard pass for me.

Volkswagen Passat GTE

Passat GTE, a plug-in around $41,000, has that classic Volkswagen sleekness with German engineering cred. But, dude, reliability in hybrids is kind of all over the place battery woes, infotainment bugs, and some electrical headaches reported. If you want a German hybrid, maybe Audi or BMW hybrids feel safer bets. This one’s kinda like a gamble.