Yahoo Autos Best hybrid cars for 2023 and 2024
There are two rather dominating trends in the car business: full electrification, and the shift to SUVs. Still, we aren't in a place where EVs are the perfect solution for everyone, and similarly, many people still prefer to have a lower, sleeker, and frequently lighter and more nimble sedan or fastback hatch; in other words, "cars." So we've rounded up the best hybrid cars still on the market, as well as even a 2025 model that's just on the verge of launching.
Now we want to also specify that this list is just sedans and the odd hatchback, and it's just conventional hybrids. So this will not include plug-in hybrids, which are like a conventional hybrid, but have a large enough battery that they can be plugged in and charged for significant amounts of electric-only driving. It also won't include the myriad "mild" hybrid vehicles that have a small electric motor that just provides slight assist from a stop and allows for quicker and smoother engine shut-off at stops. For reference, the hybrids we're talking about are like what the Prius has been from the start (which is also a part of this list).
Yeah, so it's a bit confusing, but while overlooked, traditional hybrids are still an excellent way of saving gas — be it for economic or environmental reasons. They're increasingly even the most compelling versions of their respective model lineups, which wasn't true in the past.
Best Small Hybrid Cars | Best Midsize Hybrid Cars | Best Luxury Hybrid Cars
Best small hybrid cars
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Pros: There aren't many compact hybrids left, and it's one of the best; affordable; normal driving experience; spacious interior
Cons: Styling may be a bit overboard.
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 50 mpg combined and 54 mpg combined (Blue trim)
Read our Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Review
The 2023 Elantra Hybrid is one of your best bets for a compact hybrid. Beyond getting exceptional fuel economy of 50 or 54 mpg combined, depending on trim level, the Elantra Hybrid stands out by being awfully normal to drive. There's no droning electronically controlled CVT mooing as with Toyota system and the engine doesn't rev even if your foot isn't on the accelerator like Honda's. The reason is Hyundai uses a traditional six-speed automatic transmission for its hybrid system. The Elantra also stands out because, well, just look at the thing. It's awfully wild with all those sharp creases everywhere, dominant grille and pointy rear end. The interior, meanwhile, is more conventional by hybrid standards (for the better), featuring a look that is modern and sporty. Its infotainment and safety technology are also top notch.
(Refreshed non-hybrid 2024 Elantra pictured above left)
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Pros: Affordable; subtle looks; available all-wheel drive
Cons: Noisy powertrain; low power; lackluster interior
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 50 mpg combined (LE FWD, XLE FWD); 48 mpg combined (LE AWD, XLE AWD); 47 mpg combined (SE FWD, Nightshade FWD); 44 mpg combined (SE AWD, Nightshade AWD)
The Toyota Corolla hybrid was given a fairly moderate update for 2023, and with it comes enough reason to recommend checking it out. Horsepower, while still modest at 134, is increased from before, and certainly welcome. But more importantly is the addition of all-wheel drive availability, which is still relatively unusual among small sedans. Then there's the affordability. The base Corolla LE hybrid starts at less than $25,000 (though the Elantra Hybrid above is only a few hundred more). The all-wheel-drive version is just shy of $1,000 more, and is thus one of the most affordable all-wheel-drive vehicles you can buy in America, sedan, hybrid or otherwise. Factor in combined fuel economy ranging from 44 to 50 mpg, the Corolla hybrid is an impressive value. The only downside is an interior that feels a little plain and low-end compared to the aforementioned Elantra, and the powertrain is noisy, particularly when wringing the most out of those 134 horses.
Toyota Prius
Pros: Available all-wheel-drive; shockingly stylish; good power; hatchback versatility; it's synonymous with hybrids
Cons: Odd instrument layout; tight backseat headroom
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 57 mpg combined (LE FWD); 54 mpg combined (LE AWD); 52 mpg combined (XLE FWD, LTD FWD), 49 mpg combined (XLE AWD, LTD AWD)
The old Prius made it to this list in the past basically because better competitors had dropped out of the segment. That's not the case with the new Prius. First off, it looks good. Real good. It's got a sleeker windshield rake than a lot of modern supercars, and the lines are clean and taut, even to the tail. Then there's the powertrain, which actually has power now, though it's still a bit noisy. The front-drive version makes 194 horsepower, and the all-wheel-drive one makes 196. And yes, it is available with all-wheel-drive via a second motor at the rear. On top of having power that makes it nippy off the line, the Prius even handles decently well. It's no sports car, but it's sportier than a number of hybrids and compacts in general. The interior is less strange, too, and the infotainment is vastly improved. That's not to say there aren't oddities, such as the deep-set instrument cluster. Plus, the price for the sweet looks is reduced rear headroom and rear cargo space. But overall, the Prius has gone to one of the least appealing hybrids available, to one of the most in one generation.
Best midsize hybrid cars
Honda Accord Hybrid
Pros: Class-leading back seat and trunk space; electric-like power delivery; best-in-class ride and handling
Cons: Iffy fuel economy in the otherwise desirable Sport and Touring trims
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 48 mpg combined or 44 mpg combined (Sport, Touring)
Read our Honda Accord Hybrid Review
The Honda Accord is our top choice among midsize family sedans, and that doesn't change when it comes to hybrid versions. In fact, the Hybrid is the Accord version we recommend first as its superior fuel economy and agreeable electric-like power delivery don't come with substantial tradeoffs. Yes, it's more expensive than a regular gas-only Accord, but like the other hybrid sedans here, the price premium is manageable given the gas savings. Like every Accord, though, the Hybrid stands out with a truly colossal amount of interior space, a well-made interior, and a driving experience that sets a just-right balance between ride comfort and handling response. And unlike other Hondas, including the CR-V Hybrid, the Accord has a newer, more user-friendly tech interface.
