Hybrids offer drivers better fuel economy without fully committing to electric. But not every model lives up to the hype.
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“Stay away from any vehicle where it is [in] its first year of production. You are the guinea pig,” said Chris Pyle, auto expert at JustAnswer. “Also, something to think about. Most hybrids help in the city MPG, not so much in the highway MPG. So if you drive a lot [on] highways and interstates, and expect great results. You will be disappointed.”
According to car experts, here are five hybrids that just aren’t worth the money.
Chrysler Pacifica
“The Pacifica is a popular hybrid; rental fleets almost always include several of them, and they’re one of the more affordable minivans. Unfortunately, they’re not built to last,” said Melanie Musson, auto industry expert at Auto Insurance.
“They may be suitable for a rental fleet because they tend to be reliable for the first couple of years, but after that, they have a history of experiencing various types of problems,” she added.
According to Musson, these issues range from electrical problems to complete engine failure. Pyle also pointed out that it’s known for its charging issues because it’s a plug-in hybrid.
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Toyota Sequoia
“The Sequoia is priced so that it competes with some luxury cars; however, it’s a Toyota,” Musson said. “You’d expect that as a hybrid, the fuel economy would be excellent, but it only gets a combined 20 mpg. There’s no denying that the Sequoia is strong and tough, but it’s overpriced and inefficient.”
It has a starting price of over $60,000, limited cargo space and drives as big as it is, according to Car and Driver. While it’s comfortable, it’s not as practical as other full-size SUVs.
Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler 4XE
“The Jeep brand is already struggling and has been for years with concerns related to engine, transmission and wiring,” Pyle said. “Now, throw in the hybrid stuff on these vehicles. It still has all of the problems as mentioned previously, plus premature battery failure and fires.”
According to Lemon Law Experts, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Jeep 4XE vehicles due to fire risks associated with their high-voltage batteries. However, it targets 2020-2024 Jeep Wranglers and 2022-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokees.
One Redditor even posted a video of their 2021 4XE spontaneously combusting in their driveway.
Ford F-150
According to Edmunds, the Ford F-150’s hybrid powertrain is noisy, particularly when powering the onboard generator.
“The hybrid F-150 has a noisy cabin, which can be annoying if you’re trying to listen to something or hold a conversation,” Musson said. “Turbos, in general, are problematic, but the F-150 Hybrid turbo tends to have even more issues than usual.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Car Expert: 5 Hybrids That Aren’t Worth the Money
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