Techopedia has compiled a list of the top five hybrid cars for 2024, focusing on innovation, performance, and sustainability. As electric vehicle sales have declined, automakers are increasingly focusing on hybrid cars as a middle ground for improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Hybrids offer the best of both worlds, operating on battery electric power for short trips and hybrid gas-electric power for longer-range drives.
The Top 5 Hybrid Cars of 2025
1. The plug-in hybrid Toyota Prius
Toyota Prius, a pioneer in the hybrid market, has launched only one electric vehicle (EV) and a Proace van. The Prius comes in standard hybrid and plug-in options, with the Prius Prime, introduced in 2016, now known as the Prius Plug-in Hybrid for the 2025 model.
The Prius has undergone a name change to make it easier for consumers to identify powertrain options among its SE, XSE, and XSE Premium sport grades. The SE model has a 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery and an estimated 44-mile electric driving range.
The Toyota XSE Premium is a fifth-generation hybrid car that combines a 2-liter engine with electric motor-generators for up to 52 MPG. It has 220 net-combined horsepower, 139 lb.-ft. of torque, and can go from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The XSE Premium also offers a 185W solar roof for charging the battery and auxiliary functions, making it one of the best plug-in hybrid cars available.
2. Honda CR-V Hybrid
The 2025 Honda CR-V is a small SUV crossover hybrid that is aimed at SUV fans and families. Available in Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, or Sport Touring Hybrid trims, it features a 204-horsepower powertrain with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. The all-wheel drive option offers a 40 MPG city, 34 MPG highway, and 37 MPG combined rating, while the front-wheel drive option offers a 43/36/40 MPG rating.
The CR-V boasts a spacious interior, customizable rear seating, and advanced safety features like Real-Time All-Wheel Drive and Intelligent Control System. The Sport Hybrid features a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the Sport-L and Sport Touring have a larger 9-inch screen with wireless smartphone mirroring. However, the CR-V’s cabin technology is generally less advanced than other electrified vehicle models.
3. Ford Maverick Hybrid
Ford’s 2025 Maverick pickup truck combines elements of the mid-size Ranger and full-size F-150. The XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels of the smallest model now come with an AWD hybrid option. This AWD model provides traction in all weather conditions and challenging terrain. The optional Tow package doubles the Maverick’s towing capacity to 4,000 pounds, making it suitable for towing small campers, personal watercraft, and utility trailers.
The 2025 Maverick features a 94kW battery, electric motor, and 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing fuel economy of up to 42 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway with the standard hybrid FWD option. It has a combined powertrain of 191 hp and 173 lb.-ft. torque. The model comes with the latest infotainment features, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot.
Ford has introduced a new truck with a built-in 5G modem for software updates, along with the SYNC 4 cloud-connected infotainment system, enhanced voice recognition, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. The new 2025 model features a 360-degree camera, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, making it easy to hitch and back up a trailer. These features will be available as standard on the Lariat and Tremor trims in early 2025. The truck also features a 110V/400W power outlet in the bed and cab for plug-in gear and pre-wired 12V connections for additional features.
4. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
The Tucson Hybrid crossover SUV, known for its upscale interior and intuitive tech features, is now available in a 2025 version with a spacious cabin and cargo area. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models feature a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, offering 231 hp and 268 hp, respectively, with improved fuel economy. The hybrid comes in Blue, SEL Convenience, N Line, and Limited trims, with a combined 35-38 MPG.
The Tucson Hybrid comes standard with HTRAC All-Wheel Drive for stability and control on slick roads and rough terrain. Hyundai’s e-Handling technology combines a traction control system with an electric motor for precise cornering. The 2025 Tucson dashboard features optional 12.3-inch screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system and physical buttons for HVAC and audio control.
The Hyundai Xcentia Hybrid SUV features a new dashboard with a parcel shelf, a center console with a cubby, and a wireless charging pad. It also offers Hyundai’s Bluelink+ digital key smartphone app, allowing remote engine start, door lock/unlock, automatic climate control adjustment, and heated/ventilated seat activation. Additionally, the Smart Key button allows remote Smart Parking Assist, a feature not found in other hybrid SUVs.
5. Lexus ES 300h
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, offers a range of 10 hybrid or plug-in vehicles, including the 2025 ES 300h sedan. This mid-size hybrid is among the most fuel-efficient and offers 43 MPG city and 44 MPG highway combined ratings. Its electric motor and 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine deliver 215 hp and accelerate from 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds. The ES 300h comes in five variants, including Base, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, F Sport Design, and F Sport Handling, all with front-wheel drive.
The Lexus Interface infotainment system offers a speedy and user-friendly interface, with an 8-inch touchscreen available for upgrade to a 12.3-inch display with Lexus Premium Navigation and a 360-degree camera. The system is angled 5 degrees for improved visibility. It supports Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, features Lexus’s Drive Connect, Intelligent Assistant, and Destination Assist functions, and has an AT&T-provided Wi-Fi Connect hotspot. Lexus also provides a SmartAccess card key and Remote Connect app for various features.
The Bottom Line
Hybrid vehicles are being used as an intermediate stop in the transition to fully electric vehicles. These models offer a blend of efficiency, performance, and luxury, allowing consumers to enjoy the benefits of electrification without relying on charging stations. They range from luxury sedans to compact trucks and stylish SUVs, catering to different lifestyles.
