3 hybrid vehicles that experts warn drivers to avoid
As the push for electric vehicles slows down, people still want to save gas. That’s why we’re experiencing a massive influx of hybrid vehicles. But these fuel-efficient trucks, cars, and SUVs aren’t created equally, and there are three options critics recommend avoiding.
Three hybrid vehicles that critics are warning you about
According to NASDAQ, car prices are about to drop. It’s time for that end-of-the-year sales push to get 2025 models out of the way for 2026 options. But don’t immediately dive into the deep end.
Do your research, as market trends show that interest in hybrid vehicles is increasing. Some of these greener trucks, cars, and SUVs have red flags you need to know about. Critics have made those flags bright and visible for us.
1. 2025 Ford F-150 Hybrid
The Ford F-150 Hybrid was one of the first hybrid trucks on the scene, but age isn’t helping its fuel efficiency or quality. It’s supposed to get an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway.
During my tests, which included two 2 ½ road trips, the estimate was spot on. But other auto journalists, such as the Edmunds team, spent a longer amount of time with the truck and rarely got more than 18 mpg.
The PowerBoost Hybrid also has a low reliability rating. Many owners have reported problems with the battery, electronics, and body.
2. 2025 BMW X5 Hybrid
The BMW ActiveHybrid 5 has a luxury price tag with an MSRP of $73,800. At that price, hybrid vehicles should overdeliver on every promise.
This hybrid SUV only gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and up to 22 mpg on the highway without an electric charge. Critics argue that this is a weak fuel economy. But on a full charge, it has about 40 miles of electric range.
3. 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid comes as a shock to me! It’s comfortable, modern, and efficient based on the weeks I’ve spent with a few different trim levels.
It gets an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in the city and up to 38 mpg on the highway, which I found to be spot on. But critics don’t mention its fuel economy as a problem.
Instead, they complain that the tech isn’t very user-friendly. Yes, it does rely heavily on touch-screen commands. But drivers complained, and more physical controls were added in 2025.
There are reports of engine and transmission problems, but the Tucson still has an above average reliability rating.
I would recommend avoiding the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid instead if comfort is the main issue. It’s much louder and rougher on the highway than the Tucson Hybrid.
