Consumer Reports: plug-in hybrids have 80% higher fault rate
A new Consumer Reports study says plug-in hybrids suffer 80% more faults than gas cars. Models flagged include Ford Escape, Jeep Wrangler and Volvo XC60.
A new Consumer Reports study finds that plug-in hybrids suffer breakdowns far more often than traditional gasoline cars. The numbers are stark: the likelihood of faults in plug-in hybrids is roughly 80% higher than in conventional models. For buyers drawn to electric miles without the hassle, that gap is hard to overlook.
Looking at individual models, several recurring trouble spots stand out:
- Ford Escape (sold as the Kuga in Europe): owners report repeated failures of the battery, engine cooling system, and onboard charger, which seriously undercuts day-to-day dependability.
- Jeep Wrangler: despite its iconic appeal and off-road talent, drivers face frequent technical issues, some severe enough to cause a complete shutdown.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: similar to the Wrangler, this model shows a heightened rate of faults that can halt the vehicle in the middle of a trip.
- Mazda CX-90: among larger SUVs, this one drew the most reports of technical glitches and malfunctions.
- Volvo XC60: even the premium bracket isn’t immune, with owners citing recurring electronic and battery problems—signs that manufacturer solutions still need more refinement.
All told, the findings cast doubt on whether automakers can consistently deliver the quality and durability expected at scale for hybrid tech. They also underscore how demanding the shift to electric drive remains, especially as many countries push to speed up EV adoption under environmental programs aimed at cutting CO₂ emissions. For now, the promise of plug-in versatility comes with caveats that shoppers will want to weigh carefully.