Are Hybrids More Reliable Than ICE Vehicles?
The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise, yet they face challenges regarding reliability. Consumer Reports' 2023 Annual Auto Reliability Survey reveals that, on average, new EVs present 79 percent more problems than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Electric pickups are particularly less reliable, marking the least reliable vehicle category.
Comparative Performance: Hybrids, PHEVs, and ICE Vehicles
Hybrids emerge as more reliable options, experiencing 26 percent fewer problems than ICE vehicles. Conversely, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) show an average of 146 percent more problems compared to ICE vehicles. This variance highlights the diverse performance of electrified vehicles.
Insights from Consumer Reports' Auto Testing Director
Jake Fisher, Senior Director of Auto Testing at Consumer Reports, notes that EVs are relatively new in the mainstream market. He observes some positive trends in EV reliability but advises consumers to consider models beyond their first year of release for better reliability.
Asian Brands Lead in Reliability, Challenges for Domestic Manufacturers
Asian auto brands, particularly Lexus and Toyota, dominate Consumer Reports' 2023 brand reliability rankings. In contrast, U.S. manufacturers face challenges, with Buick being the highest-ranked domestic brand at 12th place, and Chrysler ranking last.
Tesla's Performance in Battery and Charging
Tesla models, specifically the Model Y and Model 3, show comparatively fewer issues in battery and charging, diverging from the general trend of EV problems in these areas.
Consumer Reports' Comprehensive Data Analysis
The 2023 survey encompasses feedback on over 330,000 vehicles, covering 20 potential problem areas including engine, electric motors, and in-car electronics. This data forms the basis for predicting new car reliability.
Evolving Auto Market Demands
Consumer Reports' President and CEO, Marta L. Tellado, emphasizes the unchanging consumer need for safe and reliable cars, despite shifts in the auto market. The organization's annual report aims to guide buyers towards dependable vehicle choices.
New Trouble Areas for Electrified Vehicles
With the growing presence of hybrids and EVs, Consumer Reports has added specific trouble areas to its survey, such as Electric Motor, EV/Hybrid Battery, and EV Charging, to better assess these vehicles' unique challenges.
Changes in Overall Score Calculations for Safety
Starting with 2024 models, Consumer Reports is adjusting its Overall Score system. Vehicles lacking standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection will see a deduction in points. Similarly, active driver assistance systems without effective direct driver monitoring systems will lead to a score reduction.
Electric Vehicles: Varied Problems Across Brands
EVs, including electric SUVs and pickups, continue to be less reliable. While Tesla faces challenges with body hardware and climate systems, other brands struggle more with powertrain, battery, and charging issues.
Hybrids Outshine PHEVs in Reliability
Hybrids are proving more reliable than both EVs and ICE vehicles. In contrast, PHEVs, due to their complexity, exhibit greater reliability issues.
Overview of Brand Performances
The survey provides a detailed analysis of various brands, highlighting their specific strengths and weaknesses across different models and categories.
This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.
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- Jeff Its also less expensive to paint cars white and gray. I had a truck repainted 4 years ago and white was the least expensive color. Saves the car manufactures money to limit color choice and have less colors available during manufacturing. Also the dealers are the manufacturers customers and white, silver, and gray are neutral and easier to sell. My Maverick is Area 51 which is a medium blue. Ford has eliminated that color along with orange and has replaced it with a light gray. Any color besides gray, white, and black costs more. Everything is about reducing costs and a little bit saved over 100k units or more a year adds up. This is true as well for most vehicles having black or gray interiors.
- MaintenanceCosts A lot of people don't want to attract attention. Unless it is immaculately detailed, a white/gray/black car will fade into the background, which is what a lot of people want.
- VoGhost The back seat of the Versa is surprisingly large (for two).
- Dwford When you buy a car they charge extra for the cool colors. But when you go to trade the car in the salesman tells you it’s worth less because no one wants that crazy color. That and people are sheep and don’t want to have to defend their color choice from mouthy friends and family. Easier to just buy gray
- Chris P Bacon Seems like the trend might've started when automakers started changing for all paint colors besides black.
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