Every Hybrid Crossover and SUV You Can Buy in 2019

There are far more brand-new hybrid cars being offered today than there are hybrid SUVs, but with the popularity of crossovers and SUVs increasing by the day, don't expect that dynamic to hold much longer. Automakers are figuring out hybrid powertrains that can muscle heavier, less-aerodynamic SUVs down the road using electric assist without relying on huge batteries that eat into cargo or passenger space. And hybrid SUVs offer real fuel economy benefits over their popular yet typically inefficient non-hybrid brethren, a big deal should gas prices ever skyrocket again. For the interior and cargo room, tall seating position, and that "look" associated with SUVs and less of the fuel-economy downside, these hybrids fit the bill.

Jump into the compilation for your choices in the segment, which we've ranked from least to most efficient based on each one's EPA combined fuel-economy number.

EPA combined: 24 mpg

Yes, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL offers a hybrid drivetrain. Dubbed "eTorque," it is a mild-hybrid system, meaning it's less complex than the collection of electric motors, gears, and such that make up, say, the Toyota Prius's powertrain.

eTorque consists of an alternator (the generator component in every car that keeps the starter battery charged) that also can deliver power to the engine's accessory drive belt, adding some shove during low-speed acceleration, or start the engine after the stop/start system shuts down the engine at a stoplight. Only the Jeep's four-cylinder engine has eTorque; it isn't available on the standard V-6 or upcoming diesel engine option. The real-world fuel mileage benefits over the non-eTorque V-6 are strong, and the setup's smoothness and satisfying punch make it well worth the extra $1000 Jeep charges for it.

EPA combined: 25 mpg (estimated)

Don't be fooled into thinking that the 2019 Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid is some kind of fuel-sipping commuter. Yes, it has an electric motor to help its gas engine motivate its considerable mass, but it’s still designed to perform like a Porsche, and its 455 horsepower is more than you get in the pricier non-hybrid Cayenne S model. That's a decent win-win, no?

Should you require more electrified power, it's expected that Porsche will install the same 680-hp plug-in-hybrid powertrain from the Panamera Turbo S e-Hybrid models in a forthcoming Cayenne Turbo S e-Hybrid model.

EPA combined: 29 mog

Like its slightly smaller two-row brother found elsewhere in this roundup, the RX450h, Lexus's three-row RX450hL hybrid (hint: the "L" means it's bigger) is a well-rounded luxury SUV that's big on comfort and luxury and so-so on performance.

The RX450hL's third-row seats are a tight fit, but given the paucity of similarly sized luxury alternatives, the Lexus is pretty much the only choice if you really need a premium mid-size crossover with an extra pair of seats and still want decent mileage or a hybrid badge.

The current Highlander three-row SUV has been selling well throughout its life cycle, although it's down 0.5 percent so far this year. We might almost say that Toyota barely needs to introduce the redesigned model launching this year, but the three-row SUV market is contentious, and the Highlander needs some updating to stay fresh.

EPA combined: 30 mpg

The slightly smaller, two-row version of Lexus's RX450hL included earlier in this roundup, the RX450h (see? No "L!") nets slightly better EPA-estimated fuel economy. Okay, so the difference between the RX450hL's combined fuel-economy number and the non-L version's is 1 mpg, but that goes to show how vehicle size and weight can affect efficiency.

As one of the few hybridized mid-size luxury SUVs out there, the non-L 2019 Lexus RX450h goes all-in on comfort: Its softly sprung suspension delivers a cushy ride, and the rest of the package is quiet and refined.

EPA combined: 31 mpg

After Lexus changed some of the NX300h's pricing and option packages last year, it has left its compact hybrid SUV alone for 2019. The luxury crossover remains pleasant overall, if not exactly exciting to drive, and its EPA rating of 31 mpg combined makes it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs you can buy. Also, now that the smaller, wildly styled UX model has joined Lexus's lineup, the angular-appearing NX looks downright normal.

As a bonus, now that the smaller, wildly styled UX model has joined Lexus's lineup, the angular-appearing NX looks downright normal.

EPA combined: 34 mpg

Nissan's Rogue hybrid enters 2019 unchanged. That's no bad thing, given how the Rogue lineup is the most popular in the Nissan fold. The two-row, compact Rogue hybrid has neatly styled interior and is priced well, but we’re less impressed by its unrefined drivetrain and tight rear seats.

You'll be hard pressed to tell the difference between the Rogue hybrid and the regular, gas-powered Rogue: The two are essentially identical save for a smattering of hybrid badges on the hybrid. Of course, living beneath the hybrid's hood is a 40-hp electric motor in addition to a 141-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine; total system output is 176 horsepower.

EPA combined: 39 mpg

Fully resigned for 2019, the latest Toyota RAV4 again is available in hybrid form. As you might expect of an updated model, the '19 RAV4 hybrid promises improved performance and impressive mileage.

Toyota estimates that the hybrid version of its best-selling SUV can reach 60 mph in 7.8 seconds and will net an EPA combined fuel-economy rating of 39 mpg. The model also has been given an injection of expressiveness inside and out, with bold color schemes and surfacing.

EPA combined: 39 mpg

An all-new entry for 2019, the Lexus UX250h is a subcompact SUV and one of the most efficient hybrid SUVs on the road, with an EPA rating of 39 mpg combined (tied with Toyota's RAV4 hybrid). Lexus also sells a non-hybrid UX200 model, but it comes only with front-wheel drive; if you want all-wheel drive, Lexus makes it so you must step up to the UX250h hybrid.

Far from quick, the UX 250h is nonetheless pleasant to drive thanks to quick steering and a well sorted suspension, and its styling catches peoples' attention for sure. If you can forgive its tiny rear seats and adventurous design, the UX is a practical hybrid that pleases.