In recent years, plug-in hybrid technology has gained significant traction in the car market, and SUVs have been no exception. Plug-in hybrid SUVs offer the convenience of an electric vehicle with the flexibility of a traditional SUV: the combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor allows you to enjoy an efficient and quiet driving experience, with the option to switch to gasoline when needed. In general, this type of vehicle is good value for money and allows people to have a car for the whole family if necessary or even for work, with all the comfort and space they usually offer.
Either way, there are many options on the market, and every year there are completely new models or plug-in hybrid versions of SUVs that were previously exclusively gasoline-powered. In that framework, some prices go through the roof due to the level of luxury they offer, but there are also several cheaper options, under $50,000 and even under $40,000 in some cases. Among those options, there are some of exceptional quality and performance that are worth considering. Of course, in the end, it comes down to personal taste and budget, but there is no reason to give up on a reliable plug-in hybrid SUV.
10 MINI Countryman PHEV - $42,700
The MINI Countryman PHEV was launched this year with a starting price of $42,700. This plug-in hybrid vehicle has all-wheel drive and generates 221 horsepower. It takes just 2.5 hours to fully charge the battery. The interior of the Countryman PHEV has a luxurious look and feel with high-quality surfaces and seat upholstery. It has an EPA estimated of 73 MPGe and provides 17 miles of all-electric range (the combined range grows to 300 miles). Additionally, it includes several warranties, for example, a 12-year (unlimited mileage) rust perforation limited warranty, a 4-year or 50,000-mile limited warranty, a 4-year (unlimited mileage) roadside assistance program, and an 8-year or 80,000-mile high-voltage battery warranty. Generally speaking, this PHEV offers an excellent blend of performance, style, and practicality.
9 Dodge Hornet - $31,590
The Dodge Hornet is set to hit the streets in 2024 as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The R/T model will be Dodge's first PHEV, with an impressive powertrain that combines a turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, delivering 288 horsepower. With over 30 miles of electric-only driving range, the Hornet PHEV is expected to offer a great driving experience. Additionally, the R/T model comes standard with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission, with the PowerShot mode that allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in an estimated 5.6 seconds. The Hornet PHEV is also equipped with a 12.0-kWh battery pack, which will provide sufficient power to the vehicle to make it a respectable SUV.
8 Subaru Crosstrek - $36,845
Subaru is expected to release a plug-in hybrid version of the Crosstrek soon with an estimated price tag of around $39,800. The hybrid powertrain will produce 148 horsepower, and the vehicle is expected to feature the same redesigned body as the newer Crosstrek models. While limited information is available on the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek, it may come with a special warranty covering the more expensive electric components that come with a PHEV. The Crosstrek has always been popular for its all-wheel-drive capability and rugged style, and the plug-in hybrid version will offer a more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly option with the same quality It is true that Subaru does not compete at the same level as other Asian brands in the North American market, at least in this segment, but this new launch is likely to put them on the map.
7 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - $39,845
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a solid contender in the world of plug-in hybrid SUVs. Starting at around $39,800 in 2023, it offers a range of up to 420 miles and an impressive ground clearance of up to 8.3 inches. Its regenerative braking system is a standout feature, as it allows the SUV to convert kinetic energy into electricity to charge its battery. With refined twin electric motors, the Outlander PHEV can glide along the streets in near silence. The PHEV is rated for 25 MPG city and 27 MPG highway when running on gasoline, but its electric driving range helps it achieve an impressive 64 MPGe combined. With prices expected to increase only slightly in 2024, the Outlander PHEV offers great value for money.
6 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid- $37,300
The Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is an attractive option due to its excellent balance between fuel efficiency and performance. With a starting price of $37,300, it is a competitively priced SUV in the plug-in hybrid market. It boasts a 261-Horsepower engine and a 13.8-kWh battery pack that provides up to 33 miles of electric-only driving range and a combined MPG of up to 35. The Tucson Limited PHEV has a higher price tag of $44,560 but offers no change in performance. Instead, it includes additional features such as remote parking assistance, which can make parking a breeze. Compared to the Santa Fe, which will be discussed later, it seems not to be a great option, but it should also be noted that this is offset by the price difference.
5 Kia Sorento PHEV - $49,990
The Kia Sorento PHEV is a great option if you are looking for an SUV with a spacious interior and features that, if not outstanding, at least will not disappoint you. The Sorento PHEV boasts an EPA-estimated 32 miles of electric-only range and a combined fuel economy rating of 79 MPGe. It also comes with a wireless device charging and a panoramic sunroof. The SUV has an extensive range of up to 460 miles, so it is quite good for long trips. It also has seven seats, which may give it some advantage over some of its competitors, despite having a somewhat higher price. In addition, the Sorento PHEV is well-designed and has a reputation for reliability. With a price tag of $49,990, it's right on the line for this list.
4 Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid - $38,690
The Kia Sportage is a popular SUV that offers many trim levels, but the PHEV version stands out for its quality. Starting at just $38,690, the Sportage PHEV is one of the most cost-effective options for a plug-in hybrid SUV on the market. It also boasts impressive EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings, with a combined 84 MPGe and an all-electric range of 34 miles. In addition to its efficient powertrain, the Sportage PHEV comes standard with a 1.6L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine and a 13-kWh battery, which a total output of 261 horsepower. The interior is just as good, with a 12.3-inch dual panoramic display and many luxury features, such as a Harman Kardon premium audio system and ventilated front seats. Besides, this SUV also has many advanced safety features, including a blind-spot view monitor, and remote smart parking assist.
3 Toyota RAV4 Prime - $42,340
The Toyota RAV4 Prime is a top contender in the plug-in hybrid SUV market, offering two PHEV models, the SE, and the XSE. Both models share a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with CVT AWD and an impressive MPGe of 94. While there are some differences between the SE and XSE, such as the XSE's higher ground clearance and standard features that are only available on the SE, they perform almost identically. The SE starts at $42,340, while the XSE has a starting price of $46,210. Both models come with a 12V/120W auxiliary power outlet in the front instrument panel storage tray and one in the cargo area. The XSE model includes luxury details, such as a leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic 3-spoke steering wheel with silver accent and red-stitching, paddle shifters, and audio controls.
2 Ford Escape PHEV - $40,500
The Ford Escape PHEV is an exciting option in the world of plug-in hybrid SUVs. With a 0-60 MPH acceleration in 7.7 seconds, it provides a thrilling driving experience while still offering great fuel economy. The Escape's hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with a powerful electric motor to deliver a combined output of 221 Horsepower. On the highway, the Escape PHEV has an impressive 36 MPGe, and also has excellent safety ratings, earning five stars in almost all tests except for rollover, where it received four stars. This SUV is also very spacious, for example, the second-row seats can be folded down, giving you access to a total of 68.3 inches of cargo area length behind the first row. The price-performance ratio is very reasonable, costing $40,500 for the simplest version.
1 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid - $42,110
The Hyundai Santa Fe is another strong contender in the plug-in hybrid SUV market. With an initial MSRP of $42,110, it offers a fully electric range of 30 miles and comes standard with HTRAC all-wheel drive. It has an MPG of up to 33 combined, which is not very impressive. The Limited version is priced at $47,370 and offers even more features. The powertrain consists of a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, which deliver a combined output of 260 horsepower. In general, the Hyundai Santa Fe is considered one of the best SUVs on the market, so its plug-in hybrid version is not far behind in this regard and can compete with the best in its segment, although it clearly cannot compete with those of greater luxury.