Plug-in hybrids have a more complex powertrain, which sounds like it would be less reliable long-term. There are several PHEVs on the market that say otherwise.
Plug-in hybrids are one of the more unsung types of automobiles on the road today. A lot of people may not know how a PHEV differs from a regular hybrid, but in basic terms, plug-in hybrids are vehicles that feature both a combustion engine and an electric motor, and they also include a charge port.
While there are many benefits to owning a plug-in hybrid, one of the trickier propositions is finding a reliable one. As Consumer Reports has consistently found, PHEVs struggle to keep up with gas-powered vehicles or EVs when it comes to reliability, as having the dual powertrain system essentially doubles your chances for problems. However, there are still some companies out there delivering high quality, reliable PHEVs for your needs.
Plug-in hybrids come in all shapes and sizes, so here, we’re going to look at the most reliable models across several different classes. There will be five in total, ranging from sedans and compacts, to luxury mid-size SUVs. These models‘ reliability have been assessed by publications such as Consumer Reports and Car and Driver that use owner-submitted data and professional critical analysis to come to conclusions.
It should also be noted that these are all 2025 model year vehicles, as the newer 2026 models are still too new to fully judge their reliability, or they haven’t actually come out yet. Here are five of the most reliable PHEVs on the market.Toyota Prius PHEV
No conversation about hybrids is complete without the Toyota Prius. Since its introduction around the turn of the 21st century, there is arguably no vehicle that has had as significant an impact on the rising popularity of hybrids. While it made its reputation on being a traditional hybrid, Toyota introduced a plug-in hybrid version of the Prius — formerly called the Prius Prime — for the 2012 model year, and it has been among the best PHEV options in the compact sedan class, particularly when it comes to its reliability.
After all, this is a Toyota, and Toyotas consistently rank among the most reliable car brands in the world, if not at the very top. It makes sense that the company’s PHEVs would be at the top of those lists too.
In a Car and Driver ranking of the best PHEV sedans, the 2025 Toyota Prius PHEV sits at the very top, earning a remarkable 10 out of 10 score from the publication. While that is an overall rating, you don’t get a perfect score if the car is going to fall apart on you. Consumer Reports has the Prius PHEV ranked second among PHEV sedans, but it ties with the overall number one spot holder, the Kia Niro PHEV, when it comes to reliability.
SlashGear’s Cameron Aubernon also loved the Prius PHEV.
