According to a new report from Consumer Reports on Thursday, an interesting trend emerges regarding the reliability of different vehicle types. Hybrids and internal combustion vehicles are showing better reliability compared to battery electric vehicles, yet EVs are steadily improving. This raises several questions and provides valuable insights into the automotive industry.

Unraveling the Reliability Puzzle in the Automotive World

Hybrids: The Middle Ground

The highest-rated hybrids were built by Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, and Toyota. Some of the most reported issues with EVs were related to either powertrain or build quality. For example, owners of the Tesla Model X complained about incorrectly attached trim and misaligned doors, while Rivian R1t owners reported issues with doors and tailgates. This shows that while hybrids may not have the same level of initial excitement as EVs, they offer a reliable option with fewer reported problems.In particular, hybrids performed better than battery-electrics. Plug-in hybrids had 70% more problems than pure hybrids and gas-powered vehicles, but that's a significant improvement from last year's 146% difference. This indicates that the kinks in hybrid technology are being worked out, and they are trending in the right direction.

Internal Combustion Vehicles: The Steady Performer

Internal combustion vehicles have long been the backbone of the automotive industry, and they continue to hold their own in terms of reliability. The report shows that hybrids and internal combustion vehicles are kind of at parity when it comes to reliability. This means that for those who prefer the traditional driving experience or have concerns about the range and charging infrastructure of EVs, internal combustion vehicles remain a reliable choice.For example, Toyota and Lexus, which are known for their reliability, have some models that performed well in the report. However, consumer complaints about quality issues in the Tundra and Tacoma pickup trucks as well as only average scores for the Lexus RX brought down the company's overall rating. This shows that even established brands with a reputation for reliability can face challenges in certain models.

EVs: The Challenging Start

EVs have made significant progress in recent years, but they still lag behind hybrids and internal combustion vehicles in terms of reliability. In the latest study, EVs had 42% more problems than hybrids or gas-powered vehicles, showing only a 79% improvement from last year. This indicates that while EVs are improving, there is still work to be done to address the issues that plague some models.Some of the most reported issues with EVs were related to battery issues. Owners of the Cadillac Lyriq and Chevrolet Blazer EV found problems with the climate control systems, while Tesla owners reported build quality issues such as body hardware, paint and trim, noises and leaks, and problems with electrical accessories. These issues highlight the need for further research and development in EV technology to ensure their long-term reliability.

Subaru: The New Reliability Leader

Overall, for the first time, Subaru was the top-rated brand for reliability, supplanting perennial leaders Toyota and Lexus. Subaru tends to do conservative redesigns, which means they are slower to change technology. From a reliability standpoint, this is a good thing because they share many reliable components across their model line. This allows them to carry over dependable systems from tried and true other models where they've already tested them, reducing the risk of new problems.For example, the Subaru brand topped the Consumer Reports list for predicted reliability. This shows that Subaru's approach to vehicle design and manufacturing is paying off in terms of reliability. While other brands may be focused on innovation and pushing the boundaries of technology, Subaru is focusing on building reliable vehicles that customers can trust.

Tesla: The Mixed Bag

Tesla was 17th of 22 brands in the report as problems in its newer models dragged down its rating. While its high-volume Model 3 and Model Y performed well, the newer Model S and Model X, which receive new technology first, did not. Owners reported build quality issues such as body hardware, paint and trim, noises and leaks, and problems with electrical accessories. Model X and S owners also noted suspension problems, and S owners reported climate system issues as well.This shows that while Tesla has made significant strides in the EV market, it still has some work to do to address the reliability issues in its newer models. However, Tesla's popularity and innovation continue to attract customers, and the company is working hard to improve its reliability.

Rivian: The Reliability Underdog

In dead last for reliability, the young Rivian brand suffered from growing pains. R1T owners complained of powertrain and build quality issues, specifically with the EV battery, charging, climate system, brakes, body hardware, among others. However, languishing at the bottom of the reliability list apparently had no bearing on overall consumer satisfaction.Indeed, Rivian topped that list, topping BMW and Tesla, while reliability champ Subaru came in at only 8th out of 10 brands and Ford dead last. This shows that consumers are willing to overlook reliability issues if they are satisfied with other aspects of the vehicle, such as performance or design.In conclusion, the reliability of different vehicle types is a complex issue that requires a closer look. Hybrids and internal combustion vehicles are showing better reliability compared to EVs, but EVs are improving. Subaru has emerged as the new reliability leader, while Tesla and Rivian face challenges in addressing reliability issues. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends play out in the future.