Top 5 Worst Hybrid Cars for Retirees

Are you a retired individual looking for a new vehicle? Well, here's some positive news. You can discover a variety of options.trusted pre-owned vehicles at reasonable rates, but if you're a shrewd buyer, you might want to look into a hybrid. A hybrid car offers fuel savings that can make it a good investment. However, retirees should be careful when searching for thebest used vehicleBecause not all hybrid models are the same. The truth is, some hybrid models may not be suitable choices for retirees. These vehicles often have poor customer ratings and below-average reliability. Additionally, they might not provide good value. In other words, for the price, they don't deliver the features, comfort, or durability you would anticipate.

Doing research on a vehicle you're considering purchasing before visiting the dealership is the most effective way to ensure it meets your needs and gives you the confidence to take it home. In this section, you'll discover information about the five least favorable hybrid cars for retirees, which include the 2018 Chevy Malibu Hybrid, 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e, 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, 2022 BMW X5 Plug-In Hybrid, and 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid. Certain models within these years might provide better value, while others are not recommended regardless of their release year. Understanding the specifics of these hybrid models will help you recognize why they are vehicles you might want to avoid when shopping at the dealership.

Read more: Caution Advised: Consumer Reports Indicates These 9 Electric Vehicles Have the Lowest Reliability

1. 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

The Chevy Malibu has been a staple on American roads for nine generations, but in 2024, GM revealed that production of this classic sedan will stop in 2025. Naturally, there are still many used models available, making it possible to find an older Chevy Malibu Hybrid. However, the 2018 Malibu Hybrid is a model worth considering carefully. While it offers impressive fuel efficiency, with an estimated 49 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on highways, the vehicle has its drawbacks. According toConsumer Reports(CR), the Malibu Hybrid is less dependable compared to other models from 2018. And indeed, everyone desires a reliable vehicle, but for seniors on a fixed income who do not intend to purchase a new car anytime soon, reliability is essential.

It may cost more than $10,000 to purchase a pre-owned Chevy Malibu Hybrid, according to CR's estimates, which isn't a favorable deal for a vehicle of this age. Drivers have reported issues with the fuel and emissions systems, leading to error codes that necessitate costly fixes to various parts of the car. Additional concerns from owners include problems with the climate control system, an issue that retirees shouldn't need to face, particularly if they reside in areas with severe weather conditions. CR indicates that the Malibu Hybrid has had six recalls, some involving critical safety features such as seat belts and airbags.

2. 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e

Some vehicles are destined todrain your retirement funds immediately, and the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e is among them. OnCars.com, the GLC 350e receives very poor reliability scores from customers, with just 57% of owners indicating they would suggest this SUV. Drivers have reported that the car is a lemon and needs frequent repairs. Choosing this vehicle could lead to issues ranging from the engine to the electrical system. According to CR, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz 350 GLCe is less dependable than other cars from the same year, and it has reportedly been recalled 14 times. These recalls cover a variety of problems, including a fuel line leak that raises the risk of fire, structural dangers that may result in an accident, and airbag issues that compromise passenger safety.

The typical cost for this hybrid SUV can vary between $14,000 and over $38,000. Additionally, if the car needs frequent repairs and upkeep, that could lead to significant, possibly long-term expenses. Moreover, the GLC 350e's fuel efficiency is not as good as one might anticipate from a hybrid, with a reported 24 mpg combined, as noted by CR. Therefore, you may not experience the fuel savings that are usually the main reason for buying a hybrid.

3. 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

If you have grandchildren or friends you need to transport, or if you have activities that require a lot of storage space, you may be thinking about getting a minivan for your next car. However, the 2020 Chrysler Pacific Hybrid may not be the best option. Although the Pacifica Hybrid is tied for third place onJ.D. Power'stop minivans for their model year don't offer much in terms of distinction due to the limited choices available in this category. Actually, this Chrysler minivan has a poor overall score, particularly when it comes to dependability. Users mention that the Pacifica Hybrid is challenging to enter and exit, which is an important feature for many older drivers.

Another factor that Chrysler Pacific Hybrid owners tend to dislike is the limited amount of practical storage spaces for personal belongings inside the cabin, especially when compared to other minivans. It's possible to locate pre-owned models of this hybrid for approximately $15,000, although some purchasers end up paying over $25,000. This doesn't represent a good value given its many issues, such as the requirement to replace the electric coolant heater. According to CR, the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is less dependable than other vehicles from the same model year, and the vehicle has generally not been reliable throughout most of its production years.

4. 2022 BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid

BMW is a high-end vehicle manufacturer that older adults often wish they hadn't purchased. Whether it's the quick loss of value, costly insurance, or high expenses for repairs and maintenance, BMWs are not an inexpensive vehicle to own. Those on a limited budget, such as retirees, should particularly steer clear of the 2022 BMW X5 Plug-In Hybrid. Although theIIHSProvides the X5 Plug-In Hybrid a higher rating for front collision avoidance, while some models get a lower rating for headlights. Since the ability to see clearly in low-light or dark conditions is essential for older drivers, this hybrid is among the worst vehicles you can purchase. When combined with the fact that the lane-keep and lane departure systems are not very effective, it can lead to a highly stressful driving experience.

According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 BMW X5 Plug-In Hybrid has an estimated electric-only range of only 30 miles and a combined fuel efficiency of just 20 mpg, both of which are not strong figures for a premium, luxury vehicle. The SUV is also less dependable than its rivals from the same year, with owners reporting problems such as electric drive malfunctions and various engine-related issues. OnEdmunds, the prices for a used 2022 X5 Plug-In Hybrid are around $40,000, which is almost $20,000 less than the hybrid's initial MSRP, but still not inexpensive for someone on a tight budget.

5. 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

For the 2023 model year, the Lexus RX Hybrid underwent a full redesign. Unfortunately, this did not improve the vehicle's overall quality. While the car has a stylish and athletic appearance, it faces problems with reliability and insufficient storage space. CheckConsumer Reports, and you will find that the 2023 RX Hybrid is less dependable than other models. With only a few years on the road, having two recalls is not a good sign for the vehicle's long-term performance. The rearview camera might not show an image on the entertainment screen, which can raise the chance of an accident, plus it forces you to twist your neck to check around. CR also points out that the airbags in the Lexus RX Hybrid are issues, endangering your safety while driving.

Kelley Blue Bookstates that only 50% of buyers would suggest this vehicle, so you should carefully consider before purchasing a 2023 RX Hybrid. One more factor that retirees might want to take into account is the high cost of this Lexus model. CR indicates that the typical price for an RX Hybrid could be around $50,000, and although a 2023 car may serve you for many years, you wouldn't want to own one that experiences frequent issues needing ongoing repairs. Covering expensive repair costs out of your own pocket isn't ideal if you're aiming for a frugal lifestyle in retirement or trying to make your money go further.

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