As consumers become increasingly environmentally conscious, the popularity of plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles has skyrocketed. In particular, hybrid SUVs offer the perfect combination of efficiency and performance, making them an excellent choice if you want to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing power or practicality. Of course, not all options are equal, and it all depends on the balance between power and electric range and performance in hybrid mode. Some brands tip the balance decidedly to one side, while others seek a reasonable balance, but that doesn't mean that PHEVs are not free of problems.
Plug-in hybrid SUVs use a combination of electric and gasoline power, allowing them to travel further than fully electric vehicles while emitting fewer emissions than traditional gas-powered SUVs. In addition to being eco-friendly, Hybrid SUVs do not have the drawback of causing range anxiety, well known in the case of fully electric cars, and that is why they are an option chosen by many drivers. With so many models on the market, however, choosing the best plug-in hybrid SUV can be a challenge.
Related: 10 Reasons Why PHEVs Are Better Than EVs
TOPSPEED VIDEO OF THE DAY
10 Ford Escape PHEV: Near Perfect Price-To-Performance Ratio
Back three-quarter shot ofFord Escape PHEV dynamic on a curve
The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is a comfortable and reasonably efficient SUV that has all the technology and support of a world-renowned brand such as Ford. While its 0-60 mph acceleration of 8.1 seconds is not the fastest in its class, it still offers plenty of power for most everyday uses. The Escape's advanced 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, which is more than enough. In addition to its performance, the Escape Plug-In Hybrid's Titanium trim level includes a height-adjustable passenger seat, which adds an extra layer of comfort for passengers. Of course, there are better options, but considering the price-performance ratio and the features it offers, it is a competitive candidate.
9 Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEV: Excellent Fuel Efficiency And Electric Range
Front and side angle shot of Toyota-RAV4 Prime running
The Toyota RAV4 Prime is a standout plug-in hybrid SUV equipped with impressive specs and features. With up to 42 miles of electric-only range, the RAV4 Prime offers excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions, making it a top choice if you are looking for an environmentally friendly vehicle. This PHEV SUV also offers great acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of just 5.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest vehicles in its class. In addition to its impressive performance, the RAV4 Prime has ample space for both passengers and cargo, something that can be crucial for some specific uses such as travel or moving. It is a hybrid SUV that will not disappoint anyone and is fully supported by the large reputation of Toyota, one of the most prestigious car manufacturers in the market.
Related: Why The Toyota RAV4 Prime Is The Must-Have Plug-In-Hybrid Crossover of 2023
8 Kia Sorento PHEV: Feature Packed With 32 Miles Of Range
Front three-quarters shot of a white 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid.
The Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid is another one of the best in this segment, which also has excellent fuel efficiency and performance. With an EPA-estimated 32 miles of electric-only range, the Sorento offers plenty of all-electric driving for daily commutes or short trips. The Sorento also has a very significant list of standard and optional features, including a 10.3-inch touchscreen display, wireless device charging, and a panoramic sunroof. The vehicle's easy-to-use technology interface ensures you can stay connected and informed while on the road. In addition to its advanced features, the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid boasts a fuel economy rating of 34 MPG combined, making it a top choice for drivers who want to save money at the pump. It is a really convenient option, although it is true that it does not stand out too much in some aspects.
7 Hyundai Tucson PHEV: Great Efficiency, Better Warranty
left three quarters of the Hyundai Tucson PHEV at a charging station
Another important competitor on this list is the Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid: a powerful and efficient SUV that offers an exceptional driving experience. With a power output of 261 horsepower, this hybrid SUV delivers excellent acceleration and performance, and it is also equipped with an advanced powertrain that automatically switches to hybrid mode when the battery level reaches 15%, ensuring you can continue driving without range anxiety: Moreover, on a recent test drive, the hybrid Tucson achieved an impressive average of 37.2 MPG once it entered the hybrid mode. In addition to all this, the Tucson comes with an excellent warranty: Hyundai offers a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty for the powertrain and battery components, giving drivers peace of mind knowing they're covered in case of unexpected issues. It is fair to say that it is a competitive option.
Related: 10 Reasons Why The Hyundai Tucson Is The Best PHEV Under $40,000
6 Lexus NX PHEV: Luxury and Efficiency In One Pretty Package
Side and front view of a 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid
Needless to say: if it's a Lexus, it's a luxury vehicle. The Lexus NX 450h+ is an impressive plug-in hybrid SUV that stands out for its design and comfort. With a range of up to 37 miles on all-electric power, assuming the battery is fully charged, you can expect emissions-free driving for short trips and commutes. Once the battery is depleted, the NX 450h+ can achieve an EPA-estimated 36 MPG during normal hybrid operation. While the NX 450h+ is not particularly cheap for its segment, it comes better equipped from the get-go than most of its rivals and the cabin is spacious and attractive, offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo. If you are looking for luxury, in addition to the benefits of hybrid vehicles, this may be your option.
5 Lincoln Aviator PHEV: New, Fast, And Super Advanced
Front three-quarters shot of aLincoln Aviator Grand Touring
Not everyone is aware of this option, and therefore it is sometimes not taken into account as it deserves. We are talking about the PHEV Lincoln Aviator, which is a luxurious and powerful SUV that delivers amazing performance and comfort. With an impressive acceleration of 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, the Aviator offers a thrilling driving experience. The vehicle's best characteristic, however, is its exceptional comfort: it is equipped with 30-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functions, adaptive suspension, and other advanced features that ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. At the top of the trim, it reaches an impressive 494 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. Whether you're looking for speed, comfort, or luxury, the Lincoln Aviator is an excellent choice.
Related: 10 Best Electric Three-Row SUVs
4 Porsche Cayenne PHEV: Impressively Fast
Rear-end shot of aPorsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid plugged into a charging station
Another vehicle not to be missed in this segment is the Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid, an SUV that shines, above all, for its performance and excellent driving experience. With an acceleration of 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, the Cayenne is one of the fastest PHEV SUVs on the market. However, in all-electric mode, it takes more than 20 seconds to hit 60 mph, so you should also keep that in mind. The Cayenne has an awesome design and high-quality materials that make it stand out from other SUVs. Nevertheless, it is quite expensive, with a starting price of $87,950, and another downside is its poor hybrid range. Despite these drawbacks, the Cayenne is a great SUV that offers top-of-the-line features, and impressive performance. If you're looking for an SUV that combines power and luxury, the Porsche Cayenne is definitely worth considering.
3 Volvo XC90 PHEV: Safe And Efficient
Photo of a Volvo XC90 Recharge driving along a coastal road
Volvo has done a lot of work on its hybrid models and one of the most notable of these is the XC90. It is a stylish and elegant SUV whose main virtue is awesome handling. With its sleek interior and exterior styling, the XC90 Plug-in Hybrid is sure to turn heads wherever you go. The vehicle's precise handling makes it a joy to drive, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. Using a Level 2 charger, you can recharge the XC90 T8's battery in about 2.5 hours, making it easy to stay charged and ready to go. The XC90 Recharge accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, making it another of the fastest plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. And, of course, it comes equipped with all the Volvo safety features you've come to expect, ensuring a safe and secure driving experience for you and your passengers.
Related: 10 Reasons Why Volvo EVs Will Be A Force To Reckon With
2 BMW X5 PHEV: Arguably One Of The Best Plug-In SUVs
A front three-quarter outdoor shot of a 2018 BMW X5
Now it is time to talk about a spectacular BMW: the PHEV X5, a powerful and luxurious SUV that is undoubtedly one of the best in the market. With an impressive acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, the X5 delivers a strong performance that is sure to impress. The vehicle's luxurious and comfortable cabin features high-quality materials and advanced technology that make every ride a pleasure. And with a spacious interior and cargo area, there is plenty of room for passengers and their belongings. The X5 also features advanced technology, such as BMW's iDrive infotainment system, which makes it easy to stay connected and entertained on the go. It obviously has everything you expect from such a vehicle and even more: you will not be disappointed.
1 Volvo XC60 PHEV: The Top Choice
Photo of a silver Volvo XC60 Recharge parked on a platform next to the water.
Volvo is very interested in safety, but it's not the only thing it excels at. The Volvo XC60 is an excellent PHEV SUV that offers a winning combination of power, fuel efficiency, and safety. With a respectable EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined in hybrid mode, the XC60 is both efficient and powerful, delivering 455 horsepower, which is not bad for this type of vehicle. While it may not be the best in every aspect, this vehicle is the best when you combine them all: it offers excellent handling, a smooth ride, and a comfortable and luxurious interior that is perfect for long trips (considering that it is also very spacious). Safety is guaranteed by the Swedish brand, but you will also find in this SUV a perfect balance between all the features you want.