According to Consumer Reports, hybrid automobiles are more dependable than gas-only ones

Apparently, hybrid vehicles are beneficial for more than simply their fuel economy. According to Consumer Reports’ annual reliability survey results, hybrids are usually more dependable than their gas-only counterparts. Hybrid automobiles were the most dependable vehicle category, with SUV siblings coming in third. The Ford Maverick truck, Lexus NX luxury SUV, and Toyota Corolla car were all standouts, with above-average durability and significant fuel savings.

This dependability is not usually extended to other electric vehicles. The newspaper discovered that plug-in hybrids are not as dependable. Toyota’s Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime are less trustworthy than their regular hybrid counterparts, while the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid was one of the survey’s least reliable cars. EVs are also having difficulties. While there are rare outliers, such as the Kia EV6’s “excellent” dependability, the category is nevertheless riddled with flaws – and not only Tesla’s build quality difficulties. Due to electrical issues, Ford’s Mustang-Mach-E scored below average. Only four of the eleven models with sufficient survey data exhibited average or superior dependability.

A simple hybrid isn’t always the greatest option, though. According to Consumer Reports, BMW, Mercedes, Ram, and others offer “mild” hybrids that don’t provide much in the way of fuel savings and are sometimes more focused on boosting power. The hybrid dependability rankings did not cover these automobiles.

The increased dependability of hybrids is not entirely unexpected. While they provide better fuel efficiency, they are ultimately based on well-known model lines and use well-established combustion engine technology. EVs are more likely to be fresh new models based on new electric motor technologies that haven’t been refined for years.

Automakers must upgrade their safety technology to remain in Consumer Reports’ good graces, regardless of powertrain. Models that do not integrate pedestrian-aware automated emergency braking as a standard feature will be penalised beginning in November. CR will also cease awarding bonus points to cars that merely feature blind spot warnings (rear cross traffic warnings will be required as well) and forward collision alarms. This will supposedly drive automobile manufacturers to enhance their standard safety systems, perhaps saving lives.