- I’m interested in purchasing a used hybrid camry or hybrid accord from 2018 or newer. My main concern is reliability and a quite smooth ride. Are there any years that were more problematic?
When it comes to hybrid first Toyota then Honda. You can't go wrong with either one so see which one you like more. And with hybrid don't buy too high of a mileage because then you'll be stuck with replacing the battery.
Hybrid
I usually recommend Toyota Hybrids over any other hybrid, even Honda. Toyota has 20 years of time tested hybrid technology. Prius technology has made it across their entire fleet.
However Honda has a compelling hybrid technology. It is their third attempt at creating a hybrid system, and it is significantly different than their Honda predecessors, and even Toyota. Honda predecessors weren’t necessarily bad in terms of quality. They just weren’t as popular as Toyota’s technology.
Current generation Honda Hybrids are basically an EV, but get its electricity from gasoline from 0-45mph. Above 45mph, the ICE takes over. Very fascinating.
If it is was any other company I probably wouldn’t give it a second look, but it is Honda, a company known for quality and longevity.
Toyota Hybrids usually split the duty of propelling the vehicle between the ICE and the electric motor across all speed ranges.
If you want tried and true, go with a Toyota Hybrid. They have nearly 25 years of time tested hybrid technology.
If you are willing to take a chance, go with the Honda Hybrid.
Heck, drive them both and see what you like better.