14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

  Amidst the dynamic realm of hybrid SUVs, consumers find themselves immersed in a landscape ripe with promises and eco-friendly potential. However, navigating through this plethora of options reveals that not all vessels traverse the waters smoothly. For those allocating their hard-earned funds, the ability to distinguish the exceptional from the ordinary becomes paramount.

As the popularity of hybrid SUVs continues to soar, the pursuit of the perfect amalgamation of efficiency, reliability, and satisfaction intensifies. In this relentless quest, it becomes crucial to identify models that fall short of expectations. Delving into the realm of hybrid SUVs, we spotlight 14 choices that have left buyers yearning for more.

These insights serve as a valuable resource for potential buyers, furnishing them with essential knowledge to steer clear of the pitfalls and frustrations experienced by others. After all, investing in a vehicle should guarantee not only reliable transportation but also enduring contentment.

14 Hybrid SUVs Not Living up to Expectations

2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale

2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

The 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale, with a starting price of $44,995, unfortunately, fails to meet expectations. Its shortcomings include an over-reliance on shared components with other vehicles, contributing to a lack of distinctive features. Consumer Reports further underscores its drawbacks with a predicted reliability score of just 2.0 out of 5.0, highlighting concerns about its dependability. Additionally, the absence of a center airbag raises apprehensions about occupant safety, further diminishing the appeal of this model.

2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid

2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

Priced at $52,060, the 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum Hybrid falls short of consumer expectations, with reported issues that have caused some to dub it an expensive driveway ornament. Despite receiving an average score of 7.4 out of 10 from Edmunds, discontent among owners stems from its lackluster interior and unimpressive gas mileage. Notably, RepairPal projects annual maintenance costs at $732, forecasting a substantial $9,017 in expenses over the initial 10 years of ownership. These factors contribute to a less-than-satisfactory ownership experience for those considering this model.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

With a price tag of $34,300, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid fails to impress, earning a modest 3.0 out of 5.0 owner satisfaction score, leaving only 40% of owners feeling they've received their money's worth. Reliability concerns are further exacerbated by recalls linked to the tow hitch harness, electrical system, and seat belts, negatively impacting owner expectations.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

Consumer Reports sheds light on its deficiencies, and RepairPal projects annual maintenance costs at $515, accumulating to a significant $8,056 over the initial 10 years of ownership. These factors collectively tarnish the appeal of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, prompting potential buyers to weigh their options carefully.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

Priced at $29,750, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid falls short of expectations for excellence. Earning a reliability score of 3.0 out of 5.0 on Consumer Reports, it ranks poorly among 2022 SUVs, plagued by issues with in-car electronics, drive systems, and a multitude of owner complaints.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

The array of concerns encompasses problems with acceleration, engine rattle, transmission noise, and battery issues. While J.D. Power assigns it a score of 77/100, RepairPal estimates annual maintenance costs at $426, projecting a total of $7,951 in expenses over the initial 10 years. These various setbacks detract from the overall appeal of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, prompting potential buyers to carefully consider its drawbacks.

2021 Audi Q5 Plug-In Hybrid

Available at a used price of $32,894, the 2021 Audi Q5 Plug-In Hybrid secures an average rating of 7.5 out of 10.0 from Edmunds. However, detractors point out its conservative styling and lack of dynamic appeal, diminishing its overall allure. Ride comfort, in particular, disappoints as drivers experience an excessive impact from road imperfections.

2021 Audi Q5 Plug-In Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

J.D. Power deems it below average, offering a score of 65/100 for quality and reliability. CarEdge emphasizes the substantial running costs, averaging $12,068 over the first 10 years, coupled with a notable 36.25% likelihood of requiring major repairs. These factors contribute to a nuanced perspective on the 2021 Audi Q5 Plug-In Hybrid, urging potential buyers to weigh both its positive and negative attributes.

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid

Available at a used price of $28,688, the 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid distinguishes itself with an outstanding safety score of 9.9 out of 10.0 from J.D. Power. However, its appeal diminishes when considering interior design and performance, rated at 6.6 and 7.6 out of 10.0, respectively.

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

In the realm of technology, the infotainment system lags behind its competitors. J.D. Power assigns a quality and reliability score of 79/100, while CarEdge estimates maintenance costs at $7,155 over a decade, coupled with a noteworthy 21.05% chance of encountering significant repair needs. Despite its safety accolades, the 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid prompts potential buyers to consider a balanced evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses in various aspects.

2020 Ford Escape Hybrid

Priced at a starting point of $21,827 in the used market, the 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid encounters significant reliability issues, as per reports from Consumer Reports. These issues contribute to an overall owner satisfaction score of 3.0 out of 5.0, with only 61% of owners expressing a willingness to repurchase this SUV. The reported problems encompass issues with the engine, power equipment, in-car electronics, paint, and trim.

2020 Ford Escape Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

Consumer Reports assigns a dismal reliability score of 1.0 out of 5.0 to the 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid. Looking ahead, RepairPal estimates annual maintenance costs at $600, projecting a total of $8,721 in expenses over the initial 10 years of ownership. These reliability concerns underscore the challenges associated with this model, prompting potential buyers to carefully consider the reported issues before making a decision.

2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid

Available at a used starting price of $18,735, the 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid stands out for its swift acceleration and agile handling. However, its appeal is marred by an outdated and frustrating infotainment system, placing it among the less favorable hybrid SUVs in terms of technology and user experience.

2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

Cars.com draws attention to recalls related to fuel feed hose and brake issues, adding a layer of concern to its overall reliability. Looking ahead, RepairPal estimates an annual maintenance cost of $597, while CarEdge projects a total of $9,820 in expenses over the initial 10 years of ownership. Despite its performance merits, potential buyers are advised to consider the drawbacks associated with its outdated technology and the reported recalls before making a decision.

2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

Available at a used starting price of $15,806, the 2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid encounters negative reviews from both owners and the NHTSA, primarily stemming from concerns related to airbags, powertrain, and electrical issues.

2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

Ranked 6th out of 19 full-size luxury SUVs by RepairPal, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid comes with high annual ownership costs averaging $1,007, and an estimated total of $12,933 over the initial 10 years. Additionally, it carries a significant 36.55% chance of requiring major repairs within the first decade. These challenges underscore the importance of careful consideration for potential buyers, as the reported issues may impact the overall ownership experience and cost of maintaining the 2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid.

2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid

Priced with an MSRP of $34,620, the 2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid falls short of expectations, drawing criticism for its noisy engine and restricted cargo space. U.S. News ranks it as the third-worst hybrid SUV, emphasizing its notable absence of powertrain options.

2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

According to CarEdge, the 2023 Toyota Venza Hybrid is projected to incur $5,652 in maintenance costs over a decade, with a 16.08% chance of major repairs. Additionally, RepairPal estimates an annual maintenance cost of $444. These factors highlight considerations for potential buyers, urging them to weigh the reported drawbacks against their preferences and requirements.

2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Priced at a used cost of $11,964, the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid provides marginal enhancements over its gas-only counterpart but faces criticism for substantial maintenance expenses and frequent breakdowns.

2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

In RepairPal's rankings, it secures the 21st position out of 26 midsize SUVs, with an average of $705 in yearly maintenance costs and a projected $9,302 over the initial decade. Additionally, there is a notable 26.05% chance of encountering major repairs within the first 10 years. These factors underscore potential challenges associated with the 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, urging prospective buyers to carefully weigh reliability concerns and overall cost considerations before making a decision.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Priced with an MSRP of $39,845, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV showcases enhanced cabin quality but falls short in terms of spacious third-row seating and satisfactory handling. Despite these improvements, its efficiency is subpar, marked by a 64 MPGe rating.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

RepairPal estimates an annual maintenance cost of $519, while CarEdge projects $7,173 in maintenance expenses over the initial 10 years. These factors underline considerations for potential buyers, urging them to carefully evaluate the trade-offs between cabin quality, handling, and efficiency before deciding on the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

2017 BMW X5 PHEV

The 2017 BMW X5 PHEV, with a starting price of $18,728 in the used car market, presents a range of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid variant. Despite its versatile features, the vehicle faces significant reliability concerns, encountering issues across various systems.

2017 BMW X5 PHEV - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

Consumer Reports assigns a dismal rating of 1/5 to the 2017 BMW X5 PHEV, attributing it to multiple problems affecting crucial components such as the suspension, drive system, fuel system, and climate system.

Similarly, RepairPal gives the model a low-reliability score of 2.0/5.0, coupled with an annual maintenance cost of $1,134 and an estimated expenditure of $18,389 over a 10-year span. According to CarEdge, there is a notable 54.61% probability of major repairs, surpassing other SUVs in its class by 15.05%.

2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid

Priced with an MSRP of $53,005, the 2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid comes equipped with numerous standard features; however, it falters in terms of interior quality, featuring a cabin dominated by hard plastics. Compounding its drawbacks, the singular powertrain option results in poor fuel economy for a hybrid SUV.

2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid - 14 Hybrid SUVs That Do Not Live Up to Expectations

U.S. News ranks the Explorer Hybrid last alongside the Outlander PHEV, assigning it an overall rating of 7.5/10. RepairPal rates its reliability at 3.5/5.0, positioning it 21st out of 32 SUVs. According to CarEdge, there is a 26.60% chance of significant repairs within the first decade, marking it 5.10% worse than its class. These factors underscore potential limitations associated with the 2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid, prompting buyers to carefully weigh its features against reported drawbacks before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the evaluated hybrid SUV models from various years and brands exhibit a range of strengths and weaknesses. Each model presents a unique set of considerations for potential buyers.

These evaluations highlight the importance of thoroughly researching and considering both positive and negative aspects before making a decision on a hybrid SUV, taking into account factors such as reliability, maintenance costs, fuel efficiency, and overall satisfaction.

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