Looking for a new ride that’s good for the planet and your wallet? You’re in the right place. We’re talking about plug-in hybrid vehicles, or PHEVs. These cars let you drive on electricity for shorter trips and then switch to gas for longer ones, so you don’t have to worry about finding a charger. It’s like getting the best of both worlds. With 2025 models rolling out, there are some really cool options. We’ve checked out what’s new and picked out some of the best plug in hybrid vehicles that stand out.
Key Takeaways
- The Toyota RAV4 Prime offers a solid all-wheel-drive system and a good electric-only range, making it a versatile choice for different driving needs.
- For truck lovers, the Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric option with impressive battery life and towing power, suitable for both work and fun.
- The Honda Accord Hybrid is a good pick for those who want a comfortable ride with excellent fuel economy, perfect for daily commutes and longer journeys.
- Mazda’s CX-90 PHEV and CX-70 PHEV are strong contenders, offering a premium feel with plug-in hybrid capabilities that blend electric driving with gas flexibility.
- The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and Chevrolet Bolt EV are also worth considering for their efficiency and modern features, especially if you’re looking for a more compact or sedan-style option.
Toyota RAV4 Prime
Alright, let’s talk about the Toyota RAV4 Prime. If you’re looking for a plug-in hybrid that actually feels like a proper SUV, this is it. It’s been a solid choice for a while, and the 2025 model keeps that going. The RAV4 Prime really shines with its all-wheel-drive system and a pretty decent electric-only range of about 42 miles. That means you can probably handle most of your daily errands without even touching the gas. It’s a good way to save a bit on fuel, especially with prices being what they are.
Inside, it’s what you’d expect from a RAV4 – practical and roomy. You get a good amount of cargo space, which is always a plus, and it doesn’t feel cramped for passengers either. Toyota also packs it with safety features, which is reassuring. It’s just a well-rounded package that makes sense if you want that SUV utility but also want to dip your toes into electric driving. You can check out more about the Toyota RAV4 if you’re curious about its design and space.
Here’s a quick look at some of its key specs:
- Electric-Only Range: Around 42 miles
- Powertrain: Hybrid system with electric motors and a gasoline engine
- Drivetrain: Standard All-Wheel Drive
- Cargo Space: Ample room for groceries, gear, and more
- Fuel Efficiency: Excellent when using electric power, and still good on gas
It’s not the flashiest car out there, but it gets the job done and does it well. Plus, knowing you have that hybrid backup means you don’t have to stress about finding a charger on longer trips.
Ford F-150 Lightning
Alright, let’s talk about the Ford F-150 Lightning. This isn’t just any pickup truck; it’s a serious electric contender that’s shaking things up. For 2025, Ford is really pushing the envelope with this one. It’s designed to be a workhorse that doesn’t compromise on its electric credentials.
What’s really cool is the range. We’re looking at an estimated 300 miles on a full charge, which is pretty solid for a truck this size. That means you can get a lot done without constantly worrying about finding a charger. Plus, its towing capacity is no joke. If you need to haul stuff for work or for a weekend adventure, the Lightning can handle it.
Here’s a quick look at some of its key features:
- Electric Powertrain: Delivers instant torque and a smooth, quiet ride.
- Impressive Range: Estimated 300 miles on a full charge for the 2025 model.
- Towing Capability: Built to handle significant loads, making it practical for various needs.
- Modern Design: Blends the classic F-150 look with futuristic electric styling.
It’s a truck that feels familiar but also very much like the future. Whether you’re using it for daily commutes, tough jobs, or just getting out of town, the F-150 Lightning is definitely worth a look if you’re considering an electric vehicle that can actually do truck stuff.
Honda Accord Hybrid
The Honda Accord Hybrid has long been a solid choice for folks looking for a car that’s easy on the wallet and good for the planet. For 2025, it continues that tradition, offering a really smooth ride and a quiet cabin, which is always a plus. It’s not just about saving at the pump, though; the Accord Hybrid feels pretty peppy when you need it to, especially if you switch it into Sport mode.
One of the neat things about this car is how it manages its power. You can actually see on the screen how the energy flows between the gas engine and the electric motor. It’s got a few drive modes to play with, too. ECON mode is there to help you squeeze out every last mile per gallon, while Sport mode gives you a bit more zip. There’s even an EV mode that lets you run purely on electricity for shorter trips, which is pretty cool for around town.
When it comes to efficiency, the Accord Hybrid is a real contender. You can expect some impressive numbers, especially with the Sport-L CVT trim, which can get as low as 5.3 L/100 km combined. That’s thanks to its smart 2.0L I-4 Hybrid setup. Plus, Honda backs up its hybrid powertrain with a decent warranty, and the high-voltage battery gets even longer coverage, giving you some peace of mind on the road. If you’re looking for a reliable sedan that balances comfort and fuel savings, the Honda Accord Hybrid is definitely worth a look.
Mazda CX-90 PHEV
Alright, let’s talk about the Mazda CX-90 PHEV. This is Mazda’s big three-row SUV, and they’ve really packed it with a lot of stuff. It’s got a pretty impressive setup, aiming to give you both that electric-only driving for your daily errands and the flexibility of a gas engine for longer trips. You get a decent amount of power, with up to 323 horsepower, and Mazda says you can expect around 26 miles on just electricity before the gasoline engine kicks in. That’s pretty good for getting around town without using any gas.
Inside, it feels pretty upscale, which is typical Mazda. Think nice materials like Nappa leather and wood trim, plus a big 12.3-inch screen for all your infotainment needs. It’s definitely a comfortable place to be, and it looks good too. For families who want something that feels a bit more premium than your average SUV but still want to save on gas, this is a solid contender.
Here’s a quick look at its electric range and fuel economy:
- Electric Range: Approximately 26 miles
- Combined MPG (after battery depletion): Around 27 MPG
It’s worth noting that sometimes the switch between electric and gas power isn’t perfectly smooth, and the engine performance can feel a little less than ideal at certain moments, making the drive feel a bit clunky. But overall, if you’re looking for a stylish, powerful, and efficient three-row plug-in hybrid, the CX-90 PHEV is definitely worth checking out. You can find out more about its features and availability at Tustin Mazda.
Mazda CX-70 PHEV
Mazda’s lineup gets a bit more interesting for 2025 with the introduction of the CX-70 PHEV. This is basically a two-row version of the larger CX-90, built on the same platform. What does that mean for you? Well, you get a lot of the same upscale feel and tech, but in a package that might be a bit more practical if you don’t need that third row.
Under the hood, it’s packing a plug-in hybrid setup. You’re looking at a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Mazda says you can expect around 26 miles of all-electric range, which is pretty decent for your daily errands or commutes. Once that electric range is used up, it switches over to hybrid mode, and they’re estimating about 29 MPG combined. It’s not the absolute highest MPG out there, but it’s a solid number for an SUV this size.
Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up against its siblings:
- CX-50 Hybrid: Around 38 MPG combined.
- CX-70 PHEV: About 26 miles electric range, then ~29 MPG combined.
- CX-90 PHEV: Around 26 miles electric range, then ~27 MPG combined.
Inside, you can expect that typical Mazda attention to detail. Think nice materials and a layout that feels driver-focused. The CX-70 PHEV aims to give you that blend of Mazda’s sporty driving feel with the benefits of electric power for shorter trips. It’s a good option if you like the idea of a plug-in hybrid but prefer a slightly more compact, two-row SUV.
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Alright, let’s talk about the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid. If you’re looking for a sedan that sips gas and still looks pretty sharp, this one’s definitely worth a look. It’s not exactly a sports car, but it gets the job done and then some, especially if you’re tired of stopping at the gas station all the time.
The Elantra Hybrid is a solid choice for anyone prioritizing fuel economy without sacrificing a modern design and decent tech. It’s got this kind of sleek, almost futuristic look to it, which is a nice change from some of the more… let’s say, traditional looking hybrids out there. Inside, it’s pretty user-friendly, with the tech you need to stay connected and safe on your drives.
One of the coolest things is how it handles the power. It uses regenerative braking, which basically means when you slow down, it’s capturing that energy and using it to recharge the battery. Pretty neat, right? At lower speeds, it leans more on the electric motor, so you’re using less gas. It’s all about making those miles count.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Fuel Economy: Expect around 53 MPG in the city and 56 MPG on the highway. That’s some serious mileage, folks.
- Electric Power: It uses its electric motor more at lower speeds, saving you gas.
- Warranty: Hyundai backs the high-capacity lithium-ion battery with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, which is pretty reassuring.
So, if you want a practical sedan that’s easy on your wallet at the pump and doesn’t look boring, the Elantra Hybrid is a strong contender for your consideration.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a solid choice if you’re looking for an affordable electric car that’s easy to handle in the city. For the 2025 model year, it continues to offer a pretty decent range, usually around 250 miles on a full charge, which is good enough for most daily commutes and errands. It’s not the flashiest car out there, but it gets the job done without a fuss.
One of the best things about the Bolt EV is its surprisingly roomy interior for its size. You can actually fit a good amount of groceries or gear in the back, and passengers in the front and back have a reasonable amount of legroom. It’s a practical little car that doesn’t feel cramped, even on longer drives. The 2025 model is expected to see some tweaks to its battery performance and tech features, aiming to keep it competitive.
When it comes to driving, the Bolt EV is zippy and easy to park. Its electric motor provides instant torque, making it feel quick off the line. While it might not have the raw power of some pricier EVs, it’s more than capable for everyday driving. Plus, charging it up is pretty straightforward, especially if you have access to a home charger. You can find more details about its electric capabilities on the official Chevrolet site.
Here’s a quick look at what makes the Bolt EV stand out:
- Practical Range: Around 250 miles on a full charge, suitable for daily use.
- Spacious Interior: Offers more room than you’d expect for passengers and cargo.
- Affordability: Generally one of the more budget-friendly electric vehicle options available.
- Easy Handling: Compact size and responsive steering make city driving a breeze.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid
Mazda’s CX-50 Hybrid is a pretty neat option if you’re looking for a compact SUV that doesn’t totally break the bank on gas. It’s got that standard all-wheel drive, which is nice for whatever the weather throws at you, and the inside feels pretty roomy. Mazda teamed up with Toyota on the hybrid tech here, so you know it’s going to be reliable. Expect to get around 38 miles per gallon combined, which is solid for this class. It’s a practical choice, looks good, and is definitely kinder to the planet than a lot of other options out there. If you want something that’s good for daily driving but can also handle a bit of adventure, the CX-50 Hybrid is worth a look.
Grand Cherokee 4xe
Alright, let’s talk about the Grand Cherokee 4xe. Jeep’s really trying to blend that rugged capability they’re known for with some eco-friendlier tech, and this is their first crack at a plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee. It’s supposed to be pretty capable off-road, which is a big deal for Jeep, but also more planet-friendly than their usual lineup. They’re aiming for a sweet spot where you don’t have to sacrifice adventure for sustainability.
If you’re thinking about getting one, you might be able to snag some tax credits. There’s the federal one, which can be a good chunk of change, and then there might be state and local incentives too, depending on where you live. It’s worth looking into because that can really bring the price down.
Charging it up is also something they’ve put some thought into. They have an optional home charging station that’s supposed to make things easier. It’s got a quick-release mount and a weatherproof box, so you can put it inside or outside. Plus, it connects to Wi-Fi, so you can control it with an app on your phone. It even has a feature to help you charge when electricity rates are lower, which is pretty neat for saving a bit of cash.
So, basically, the Grand Cherokee 4xe is Jeep’s attempt to give you that classic Grand Cherokee experience but with a plug-in hybrid twist. It’s for folks who want to go off the beaten path but also want to feel a little better about their environmental impact.
Wrapping Up Your Search for the Perfect Plug-In Hybrid
So, we’ve looked at some pretty cool plug-in hybrid options for 2025. It’s clear that these cars are getting better and better, offering a nice mix of saving money on gas and still being good for the planet. Whether you need something for city driving, family trips, or just want to try out the latest tech, there’s likely a PHEV out there for you. Think about what you need most – range, space, or maybe just a smooth ride – and use this info to help you pick. The future of driving is looking pretty green, and these plug-in hybrids are a big part of that.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV)?
A plug-in hybrid vehicle, or PHEV, is a car that can run on both electricity and gasoline. You can charge its battery by plugging it into an outlet, which lets you drive on electric power for a certain distance. Once the electric charge runs out, the car switches to its gasoline engine, just like a regular car.
Are plug-in hybrids better than regular hybrids?
PHEVs offer more flexibility. They can travel longer distances on electricity alone, which can save you money on gas for daily drives. Regular hybrids use their electric motor to help the gas engine, improving overall fuel economy, but they can’t be plugged in to charge.
How far can a plug-in hybrid go on electric power?
The electric-only range varies by model. Some PHEVs can go about 20-30 miles on a full charge, which is great for short trips around town. Others might offer a bit more. It’s always good to check the specific car’s specs for its electric range.
Do I need to charge a plug-in hybrid every day?
It’s best to charge your PHEV whenever you can, especially if you plan to use its electric-only mode. Charging it overnight at home is usually convenient and ensures you have a full battery for your morning commute or errands.
Are plug-in hybrids more expensive than gasoline cars?
PHEVs often have a higher starting price than similar gasoline-powered cars. However, the savings on fuel and potential tax credits can help offset the initial cost over time. Plus, they generally have lower maintenance costs compared to traditional cars.
What happens if I run out of electric charge in a PHEV?
Don’t worry! If you use up the electric charge, the plug-in hybrid simply switches to its gasoline engine. You can then continue driving as you would in a regular car, and you can recharge the battery later by plugging it in or by driving.
