Economy

The used hybrid car market, long viewed with caution due to fears of expensive battery replacements, is showing signs of increased reliability, according to a new ranking from automotive analysts at Topspeed.com. The report identifies specific models that demonstrate exceptional longevity, potentially easing concerns for prospective buyers.

The analysis assessed dozens of hybrid vehicles, aiming to pinpoint those that not only deliver fuel efficiency but also minimize the risk of frequent and costly repairs. The 2026 results place Japanese engineering at the forefront, though several other manufacturers also earned recognition.

Topping the list with a score of 96 out of 100 is the 2017 Lexus ES 300h. Owner reports cited in the study indicate the vehicle is “closest to perfection,” with the only recurring complaints relating to minor software glitches in the infotainment system. These issues are not reported to affect vehicle operation.

The Toyota Camry Hybrid (2014) and Toyota Avalon Hybrid (2021) tied for second place, both achieving a score of 92/100. The Camry Hybrid is noted for its slow depreciation, making it a financially sound choice. The Avalon Hybrid, prior to being replaced by the Crown, established itself as a benchmark for quiet operation and fuel economy, coupled with robust durability.

Top 10 Hybrid Reliability Rankings (Score out of 100):

• Lexus ES 300h (2017) – 96
• Toyota Camry Hybrid (2014) – 92
• Toyota Avalon Hybrid (2021) – 92
• Porsche 911 GTS T-Hybrid (2025) – 91
• Buick LaCrosse with eAssist (2019) – 90
• Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (2019) – 89
• Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (2019) – 89
• Lexus GS 450h (2015) – 89
• Toyota Prius (2009) – 89
• BMW 540i (2022) – 88

A common thread among the leading models is the utilization of proven technology. Toyota and Lexus rely on their Hybrid Synergy Drive system, refined over decades, while models like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid demonstrate advancements in battery durability. The inclusion of the Porsche 911 GTS T-Hybrid is notable; despite being a relatively new model, initial quality and performance data place it among the most reliable.

Experts advise that even with these top-performing models, a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s service history is crucial. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the inverter and the hybrid cooling system. Proper maintenance of these components can extend a vehicle’s lifespan beyond 300,000 kilometers without major repairs.

According to Service Hybrid, a specialist in hybrid battery replacement, demand for new batteries is increasing alongside the popularity of hybrid vehicles. The company offers professional installation, warranties, and support for popular Japanese hybrid models, including Toyota, Lexus, and Honda. (service-hybrid.bg)

Recent research from the German automobile club ADAC, highlighted by TopGear.bg, indicates that plug-in hybrid (PHEV) batteries from Mercedes-Benz exhibit minimal degradation over time, contrasting with those from Mitsubishi. (topgear.bg)

for buyers seeking a reliable used hybrid, focusing on Lexus or Toyota models from the years cited in the Topspeed.com ranking represents a prudent investment.

Oil prices declined sharply on Tuesday as indications emerged that the United States and Iran are making progress in nuclear negotiations, easing risk premiums in benchmark futures contracts. West Texas Intermediate crude fell below $63 a barrel after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the two countries had engaged in “serious and constructive” talks, reaching a general agreement on a set of principles.

This development reversed earlier gains triggered by an Iranian announcement that it would close portions of the Strait of Hormuz to conduct military maneuvers. Crude oil had risen by approximately 10% since the beginning of the year, supported by a combination of supply disruptions, geopolitical risks and the accumulation of sanctioned barrels.

Whereas futures contracts had largely stabilized within a range of $61 to $65 for most of the month, the momentum in diplomatic efforts in the coming days and hours is likely to determine the subsequent path of prices. Brent crude traded at $67.78 a barrel, down 1.27%, at 6:38 a.m. Dubai time.

The United States imposed a new round of sanctions targeting Iran’s oil sector in October 2025, according to a report by Euronews. These sanctions targeted individuals and entities linked to Iran, aiming to disrupt a vast oil smuggling network used to finance activities Washington deems destabilizing, as reported by Al Jazeera in July 2025. The network, allegedly managed by Iraqi businessman Salim Ahmed Saeed, has been operating since 2020, exporting Iranian oil under the guise of Iraqi crude through shell companies and intermediaries.

According to CNN, the decrease in Iranian oil exports to a two-year low coincides with heightened tensions with the United States. Kepler, a commodity information company, reported the decline, with its Head of Middle East Energy, Amina Bakr, noting a significant slowdown in exports to China. She added that increased geopolitical tensions and tightened Western sanctions on Iranian oil trade have slowed shipments as the month nears its end.

Iran is the third-largest oil producer within OPEC, producing around 3.3 million barrels per day, equivalent to approximately 3% of global production, and exports around 1.8 million barrels per day of crude oil and condensate. The potential for disruption to global oil supplies remains a key concern, particularly as the U.S. And Iran continue negotiations.

Invezz reported that Iran poses a threat to the global oil lifeline as nuclear talks with the United States begin. CNN also reported on leaked videos revealing disappointment among Iranian protestors with former President Trump.

According to Majalla, the U.S. Is working to separate Iran from China and Russia, as approximately 80% of China’s oil sources come from Iran.