6 Hybrid Vehicles to Avoid in 2025: Don't Get Stuck With a Lemon

Hybrid vehicles have come a long way since the early days of the Prius. Hybrids are now sleeker, faster, and smarter. But that doesn't mean every model is a slam dunk.

In fact, some of today's hybrids are more headache than high-tech. Under their shiny hoods, you'll find reliability issues, clunky tech, and repair bills that turn an eco-conscious purchase into an expensive mistake.

Before you commit to what looks like a smart buy, here are six hybrid vehicles the experts say you're better off skipping in 2025.

1. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Ambitious, But Troubled

The Pacifica Hybrid offers something few vehicles can: a plug-in powertrain in a family-sized minivan. It seats seven, offers competitive mileage, and qualifies for federal tax incentives. But those benefits have been overshadowed by a troubled track record.

It earned a dismal 14/100 reliability score in Consumer Reports' latest survey (the worst of any vehicle). Over the past few years, the Pacifica Hybrid has faced multiple recalls. In 2022, earlier models were recalled for battery fires following 12 incidents of 2017–2018 Pacifica Hybrids catching fire when parked (8 while charging), prompting a 19,808-vehicle recall and "park outside, do not charge" warning. More recently, 76,000 Pacifica Hybrids (2017–2023) were recalled for a short circuit in the transmission wiring that could cause the engine to stall while driving. The 2025 model, regardless of new updates, is showing many of the same concerns.

These issues, combined with Chrysler's below-average reliability reputation, mean the Pacifica Hybrid is still considered a poor choice in 2025 for a family vehicle.

2. Ford Escape Hybrid: A Promising Start, Undone by Recalls

The Ford Escape Hybrid (4th-gen, 2020–2024) has not lived up to its initial promise. By late 2024, it was named one of the 5 least reliable vehicles on sale by Consumer Reports, scoring only 21/100 in reliability. Owners reported numerous problems, including hybrid battery failures requiring replacement due to electrical glitches, leaks, and a laggy touchscreen infotainment system.

The Escape lineup also suffered multiple recalls, such as the 2023–2025 Escape recall for defective cylinder heads. Overall, the Escape Hybrid is overpriced, under-equipped package, and reliability woes make it a poor choice as of 2025.

3. Toyota Prius c: A Legacy Model That's Been Left Behind

Toyota's name is almost synonymous with hybrid innovation, but not every model is created equal. Toyota's Prius c, the subcompact hybrid hatchback, was discontinued in North America after 2019.

The Prius c was praised for its excellent fuel economy (~46–50 MPG) and Toyota reliability. Yet, it carried notable drawbacks: a basic interior, a sluggish 99-hp powertrain, and a tight rear seat. By 2025, any Prius c will be at least 6 years old, with relatively antiquated safety technology and only moderate crash-test ratings for a small car. Toyota effectively replaced the Prius c with the Corolla Hybrid in 2020, offering more space and performance for a similar price. Given the Prius's discontinuation and humble driving experience, it's generally not a top choice in 2025 except purely as a budget used car.

4. Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid: A Phase-Out in Progress

The Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) was part of the original Ioniq lineup introduced in 2017, alongside the conventional hybrid and fully electric versions. It offered respectable efficiency, with an all-electric range of about 29 miles and a hybrid mode fuel economy of 52 MPG, making it a solid commuter car during its time. However, Hyundai officially ended production of the entire Ioniq line after the 2022 model year, as the brand shifted focus to its fully electric IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 platforms.

The Ioniq PHEV is a discontinued model with no future updates, limited dealership support, and fading resale value. Its sluggish acceleration and dated infotainment system lag behind those of newer rivals. While its reliability record was decent, critical components like the 8.9 kWh battery are becoming harder to source.

For buyers seeking a plug-in hybrid with long-term support and a more robust EV range, newer models on the market today are better equipped to deliver.

5. Lexus NX 350h: Premium Price, Mixed Reviews

The Lexus NX 350h (2nd-generation NX hybrid) was introduced in 2022 as a luxury compact crossover. While not a disaster by any means, it has faced growing pains that make it a less appealing choice in 2025.

Early production NXs suffered several recalls. A 2022 recall halted sales due to front strut/shock absorbers that could detach, and another recall of 83,000 Lexus NX and Toyota models for parking brake ECU malfunctions (the electronic parking brake could fail to engage).

These issues were corrected under warranty, but they dinged Lexus's perfect reliability image. Consumer Reports initially rated the new NX's reliability only average.

Reviews note the NX 350h "doesn't deliver the engaging driving experience" of rivals like the Genesis GV70 or BMW X3. Its 240-hp hybrid system, while efficient (~39 MPG), is slower than some non-hybrid competitors, and the cargo space is merely mid-pack.

In essence, the NX 350h is a good vehicle, but its value is questionable. It's essentially a dressed-up RAV4 Hybrid, yet it costs approximately $45,000 to $50,000. Many buyers may be better served by either its plug-in version or a larger Lexus model.

6. Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid: Discontinued

The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid was a unique sedan that offered ~47 miles of electric driving and a roomy interior. However, Honda discontinued the Clarity PHEV after the 2021 model year, with final production halting in August 2021.

By mid-2025, the Clarity is an orphaned model. While it still drives comfortably and efficiently, its support and future updates are limited. Honda has shifted focus to new hybrid models and EVs. The Clarity's resale value has suffered accordingly, and its complex components (such as the 17-kWh battery) may become more difficult to service in the long term.

Additionally, the Clarity was eclipsed by competitors in performance: its 212 hp was adequate, but the car was heavy and not very engaging to drive. Given these factors, the Clarity PHEV is generally not recommended in 2025 unless you find a steep discount and are aware of its orphan status.

Don't Let the Hybrid Hype Fool You

Hybrid technology has evolved significantly, but not every model reflects that progress. Recalls, outdated features and limited long-term support can turn a promising vehicle into a financial burden. If you're shopping for a hybrid in 2025, research is key (unless you enjoy buyer's remorse).

Models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid continue to earn high marks for performance, safety, and reliability. These are the vehicles more likely to deliver the experience and savings you're looking for.

Did you find this guide helpful? Save it for future reference and share it with friends or family who are considering a hybrid purchase in 2025. A well-informed decision starts with the right information.