Gasoline prices can be unpredictable and change rapidly, so a shift to owning a hybrid car may be in your best interest. With a wide variety of hybrid models readily available, it’s possible to make less frequent trips to fuel up and ultimately save money. As such, we’ve compiled a list of the top hybrid models currently on the market according to the CNET Cars team. This list is not in any particular order.
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Experience the intelligence of hybrid technology in an elegant SUV that comes with three rows of seats.
We’re not talking about the Prius this time. Instead, we want to introduce you to the impressive Highlander Hybrid. This full-size SUV is highly adaptable, with luxurious interior, high-tech features, and sophisticated style. It’s also incredibly fuel-efficient, returning a combined rating of 36 miles per gallon in its front-wheel-drive configuration. Considering it accommodates up to eight passengers, the mileage is truly impressive.
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2022 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and Turbo S E-Hybrid
Stunning Performance with a Green Touch
Porsche introduces a luxurious plug-in hybrid to its Panamera lineup. The Panamera offers two gasoline-electric powertrains: the 4 E-Hybrid and the Turbo S E-Hybrid. These powertrains are available in standard sedan, the extended-length Panamera Executive, and the Sport Turismo wagon body styles, which is quite a variety to choose from.
Either way, one of these powertrain options is less powerful than the other and consists of a twin-turbo V6 engine that is accompanied by an electric motor. This particular configuration generates 455 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Alternatively, the stronger version employs a twin-turbo V8 engine which is also accompanied by a motor. This combination yields an impressive 690 horsepower and 641 lb-ft of torque. In both cases, an electric-only driving range of 17 to 19 miles is provided by a 17.9-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. In terms of fuel efficiency, expect to achieve an estimated 50 MPGe for each powertrain, which drops to less than half when operating solely on gasoline.
Check out the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo in an eye-catching blue shade on TrueCar.
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2022 Ford Escape Hybrid
A great driving experience wrapped in a small SUV hybrid
While Toyota is primarily known for producing hybrid cars, Ford has also produced a significant number of gas-electric vehicles as well. Even so, that may come as a surprise when you compare the new Explorer Hybrid to its little brother – the Escape Hybrid, which is an excellent vehicle to drive. The improved powertrain is smooth and quite potent, providing a respectable 200 horsepower. Fuel economy is the Escape Hybrid’s strong suit, offering 41 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models. It’s hard to argue with that kind of efficiency. Furthermore, a plug-in version of the Escape Hybrid is also in development for those who need even more fuel efficiency.
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2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid
The Alternative to Gas-Guzzling SUVs
As Ford and other automakers move away from sedans, those seeking fuel efficiency without the bulk of an SUV have limited options. Fortunately, Toyota offers the Avalon Hybrid as a desirable alternative.
The spacious sedan is luxurious and cozy, boasting a roomy cabin and abundant sophistication. Beneath the bonnet lies a 2.5-liter petrol powerplant supplemented by twin electric motors, which produce a total output of 215 hp and a combined fuel economy of up to 44 mpg.
The XLE trim fulfills the basic functions and starts at approximately $38,000, which includes destination fees. It’s fortunate that the pricing is not determined by the size of its grille; otherwise, even Jeff Bezos wouldn’t be able to afford it.
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2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Plug-in hybrid family minivan
Similar to the previously mentioned Toyota Highlander, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a spacious and functional vehicle that offers ample room for passengers, cargo, or both simultaneously. Additionally, its plug-in hybrid powertrain is incredibly efficient, achieving a combined 82 MPGe when operating solely on electricity.
Beneath the bonnet lies a 3.6-liter V6 engine in addition to two electric motors performing the role of a continuously variable transmission and providing a total system output of 260 horsepower. Furthermore, it is fitted with a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, enabling an all-electric driving distance of approximately 32 miles.
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2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid
A Masterpiece of Hybrid SUV
The Honda CR-V Hybrid has taken the already excellent standard CR-V utility vehicle to the next level by significantly improving fuel economy and refinement.
Equipped with standard all-wheel drive, the Honda model boasts a sleek dual-motor hybrid system that provides an impressive 212 horsepower, a significant increase from the 190 horsepower of the standard model. Its fuel efficiency reaches an average of 38 miles per gallon. Combined with the car’s adaptable interior and driver-assistance features, it’s clear to see why the Honda is a top choice among CNET Cars.
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2022 Volvo V60 Recharge
Aesthetic Plug-In Hybrid
The Volvo V60 is undeniably one of the most visually stunning plug-in hybrids out in the market today. Its stunning appearance alone is reason enough to include it in this list. When equipped with top-tier Polestar Engineered trim, this Swedish wagon boasts a combination of a turbo and supercharged four-cylinder engine, in tandem with a rear-mounted electric motor, that produces 415 horsepower and just under 500 lb-ft of torque. Its performance is nothing short of exceptional, but so is its efficiency. With a fully charged battery, this car can run on 100% electricity for an estimated 22 miles, and deliver an impressive 69 miles per gallon equivalent, on average. Once the battery charge is depleted, one can expect a combined power output of approximately 30 mpg while running on gasoline.
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The 2022 Acura NSX Type S is a remarkable hybrid vehicle, impressively delivering 600 hp and achieving 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3 seconds. Despite its hybrid nature, the car’s three electric motors provide substantial power and torque, enabling efficient torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. While fuel efficiency may not be a strong point, averaging 21 mpg during mixed driving, the NSX excels in speed and attracts plenty of attention on the road.
Check out the 2022 Acura NSX Type S on TrueCar, it’s a breathtaking final performance.
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