Best Plug-In Hybrid SUVs under $50,000
Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUVs under $50,000 based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in. The models here all offer plug-in hybrid versions that start at under $50k, but the listed base prices may not apply to the PHEV configuration.
Top Ranked Plug-In Hybrid SUVs under $50,000 at a glance
1
2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$34,050
EPA MPG
35–38 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid SUV doesn't cost much more than its nonhybrid sibling but offers better fuel efficiency and quicker acceleration. Learn More
2
2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$31,985
EPA MPG
35–42 combined
C/D SAYS: The Sportage Hybrid is a roomy, comfortable, and practical SUV, but we expected better fuel efficiency from its hybrid powertrains. Learn More
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3
2026 Kia Niro Hybrid
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$28,885
EPA MPG
49–53 combined
C/D SAYS: With a standard hybrid powertrain, the Kia Niro is a pocket-sized SUV that sips fuel but lacks hustle. Learn More
4
2026 Mazda CX-70 Hybrid
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,780
EPA MPG
25 combined
C/D SAYS: The Mazda CX-70 Hybrid is a premium offering among two-row mid-size crossovers, and its plug-in powertrain pays off in both performance and fuel efficiency. Learn More
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5
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$34,300
EPA MPG
37–39 combined
C/D SAYS: Practical, sensible, fuel-efficient, and inoffensive, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid does its job well at a reasonable price point. Learn More
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Shop the Top 5 Plug-In Hybrid SUVs under $50,000
6
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid is relatively competent and efficient but feels a little dated in the face of more modern competitors. Learn More
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7
2026 Ford Escape Hybrid
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$35,085
EPA MPG
40 combined
C/D SAYS: Guess what's next for the 2026 Ford Escape Hybrid, one of the pioneers of gas-electric SUVs. Learn More
Video: Hybrid Buyer's Guide
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