The automotive industry is rapidly driving toward full electrification behind government mandates, emissions regulations, and consumer desires. While many of the new models making their debuts over the past few years have been all-electric offerings, there are still plenty of great hybrid cars available. These models offer an amalgamation of some of the best characteristics of internal combustion and electric cars — they offer the convenience of filling up a tank with gasoline instead of charging a battery pack, and they stretch each of those gallons further with their electric motor(s). Fortunately for consumers, hybrid cars often don’t have much more than their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, and most are mainstream models that carry agreeable price tags overall.
For this list, we’ve included the best non-plug-in hybrid models. These models allow drivers to not worry about installing a charger in their home or finding one on the go. Unlike plug-in hybrids, standard hybrid models cannot drive solely on electric power. Still, they can be driven completely without regard to battery charge status — they simply deliver a traditional driving experience with exceptional fuel mileage. Here are the 15 most fuel-efficient hybrid models according to their EPA ratings you can buy today.
Updated on 2nd September 2023: This post has been updated with five new hybrid models to consider for 2023 and 2024, including the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, Ford Escape PHEV, and the all-new CR-V Hybrid from Honda. With hybrid technology becoming stronger, better, and more efficient as the years pass, combined MPG will only increase!
15 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: 35 Combined MPG
The Subaru Crosstrek has always been a popular model for drivers, with the 2023 hybrid version standing out. This high-performance SUV boasts 35 MPG/90 MPGe, which makes weekly fill-ups a distant memory for most. Additionally, the 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid plug-in SUV achieves up to 17 miles of pure electric driving, which can make a significant difference when you want to save some gas.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 35 combined, 28 city / 33 highway |
Engine | 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 152 to 182 horses |
Torque | 145 to 176 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuous variable transmission / Six-speed manual |
Drivetrain | AWD |
Starting price | $36,845 |
Subaru has made use of an 8.8 kWh 352-volt lithium-ion battery for these plug-in hybrid models, which take roughly five hours to charge at 110 volts and two hours at 220 volts. The starting MSRP for a 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid is $36,845, making it a pretty decently-priced option for drivers.
14 2023 Toyota Sienna: 36 Combined MPG
Moving to mini-vans, the 2023 Toyota Sienna Hybrid is proving to handle itself quite well on the road. This newest release is a hybrid, with fuel economy of either 36 or 35 MPG combined, depending on whether you get the optional all-wheel-drive system. That's pretty good considering the size of the vehicle, also boasting a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, 245 horsepower, and a 650-volt nickel-metal hydride: all for a starting MSRP of $36,885.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 36 combined, 36 city / 36 highway |
Engine | 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 245 horses |
Torque | 176 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuously variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD and AWD available |
Starting price | $36,885 |
Again, it's not uncommon for vans to see fewer miles per gallon when fully loaded with people, equipment, or heavy objects, but Sienna is a step in the right direction.
13 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid: 37 Combined MPG
Next, the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid offers great mileage, both with gas and electric. Notably, this fan-favorite has seen a redesign, boasting 40 miles per gallon in the city, 34 on the highway, and up to 40 MPG with front-wheel drive. This hybrid has a combined MPG of 37, putting it up there with competing brands like Toyota. The Honda CR-V has been a staple for the brand since 1997, seeing many tweaks and advancements.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 37 combined, 40 city / 34 highway |
Engine | 1.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 190 horses |
Torque | 247 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuously variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD or AWD available |
Starting price | $30,825 |
With a standard 190-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front- or all-wheel drive, this SUV is one to compete with for the upcoming year. Not to mention its base MSRP of $30,825.
12 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: 37 Combined MPG
Another great release from Hyundai is the 2023 Tucson Hybrid. This SUV is EPA-estimated at 37 MPG combined (37 city/36 highway) and comes in a plug-in option that allows up to 33 miles of fully electric range per charge. That is exciting for Tucson drivers, as well as anyone wanting to make a gradual shift towards full EV driving.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 37 combined, 37 city / 36 highway |
Engine | 1.6-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 180 horses |
Torque | 178 pound-feet |
Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | AWD |
Starting price | $31,350 |
Notably, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, 180 horsepower, and a comfortable starting price of $31,350, making this the perfect choice for an eco-conscious consumer.
11 2023 Ford Escape PHEV: 39 Combined MPG
Another hybrid we love for combined MPG is the 2023 Ford Escape PHEV, boasting 42 miles per gallon in the city, 36 on the highway, and 39 combined. These are pretty impressive figures for the brand, as well as the Escape hybrid. Ford has seen success with this model, especially because users can plug their car in to charge.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 39 combined, 42 city / 36 highway |
Engine | 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 163 horses |
Torque | 155 pound-feet |
Transmission | Eight-speed automatic transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD |
Starting price | $41,995 |
People can also expect EV driving to be up to 37 miles on electric power alone on a full charge, so that's more than many of the vehicles on this list. With a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, 163 horsepower, and a starting MSRP of $40,500/$41,995, this is one to consider.
10 2023 Lexus UX: 42 Combined MPG
The Lexus UX occupies a unique position on this list as it's only one of a few new crossovers to return over 40 combined MPG, and it’s one of just two crossovers among the most efficient hybrid cars of 2023. Lexus’ smallest little crossover returns an impressive 42 combined mpg (43 city/41 highway).
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 42 combined, 43 city / 41 highway |
Engine | 2.0-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 181 horses |
Torque | 139 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuously variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD and AWD available |
Starting price | $35,340 |
The 2023 Lexus UX 250h is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder hybrid powertrain delivering 181 horsepower and paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to aid its efficiency. The UX isn’t the most practical or lively subcompact luxury crossover, but it delivers the refinement expected of the Lexus brand and can serve as an upscale city commuter. It’s also the most affordable model in its class, with a starting price of $35,340.
9 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid: 43 Combined MPG
The Kia Sportage is a bit of a shapeshifter, as it can be had in over 10 trims with either internal combustion only, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid powertrains. Adding to the choices, the standard Sportage Hybrid can be had with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Unsurprisingly, the FWD version is the most efficient and will return 43 combined mpg, making the Sportage the most fuel-efficient hybrid crossover on sale today.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 43 combined, 42 city / 44 highway |
Engine | 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder |
Horsepower | 226 horses |
Torque | 258 pound-feet |
Transmission | Six-speed automatic transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD or AWD available |
Starting price | $27,490 |
To boot, the Sportage Hybrid doesn’t completely focus on efficiency. Its 1.6-liter hybrid drivetrain pumps out a notable 226 horsepower. It also has engaging styling throughout and a long list of standard features, and the base LX hybrid model starts under $29,000 with destination. For those who want a crossover and put efficiency above all else, the Sportage Hybrid is the top choice.
8 2023 Lexus ES 300h: 44 Combined MPG
Spoiler alert — Lexus is the only luxury manufacturer to have its models land in the top 10 most efficient hybrids of 2023. The Japanese automaker's ES 300h model to underscore that not all hybrids have to solely focus on the economy. The midsize sedan is more spacious and practical than most of the models on this list, and of course, it comes with the Lexus refinement of a quiet, upscale cabin and upmarket amenities.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 44 combined, 43 city / 44 highway |
Engine | 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 215 horses |
Torque | 163 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuous variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD |
Starting price | $43,340 |
The 2023 ES 300h delivers 215 horsepower from its hybrid powertrain and will return 44 combined MPG, according to EPA testing. The 300h hybrid model is available in three trims, from sport-styled F Sport, which starts at just under $49,000 with destination fees, to the top-spec Ultra Luxury model, which tops the entire ES range for about $53,000.
7 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid: 44 Combined MPG
The Honda Accord is a venerable champ of the midsize sedan segment, providing impressive driving dynamics, a long list of features, an upmarket cabin, impressive practicality, and attractive styling. Better still, the 2023 Accord, the first of the model’s 11th generation, is one of the most fuel-efficient midsize sedans available, returning 44 combined mpg.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 44 combined, 51 city / 44 highway |
Engine | 1.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 192–204 horses |
Torque | 247 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuous variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD |
Starting price | $31,345 |
The top four Accord trims are all exclusively powered by a hybrid powertrain developing 204 horsepower, making it slightly more powerful than the non-hybrid models. And while some hybrids aren’t exactly thrilling to drive, the Accord Hybrid delivers a composed and refined driving quality that begets its $31,345 starting price.
6 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid: 50 Combined MPG
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid will not only save buyers on fuel costs — it’s the cheapest new hybrid model on sale today. The Corolla Hybrid starts at just $23,050 ($24,145 with destination), and even the most expensive hybrid model rings in at under $27,000. With its bargain-hunter-leading status, the 2023 Corolla Hybrid will return up to 50 combined mpg, even with all-wheel drive.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 50 combined, 53 city / 46 highway |
Engine | 1.8-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 134 horses |
Torque | 156 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuous variable transmission |
Drivetrain | Inline-four hybrid drivetrain |
Starting price | $23,050 |
The hybridized Corolla isn’t the most exciting hybrid to drive, as its inline-four hybrid drivetrain delivers 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. But in addition to being extremely efficient, the Corolla Hybrid delivers a comfortable ride quality, plenty of standard features, and compact sedan pragmaticism.
5 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid: 52 Combined MPG
The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid blends all the positive attributes of the standard model, but it has a parsimonious appetite for gasoline, returning up to 52 combined mpg. Even the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid Camry returns 20 combined MPG less. The Camry Hybrid’s powertrain dishes out 176 horses. It’s available in four trims. The base LE is the most efficient of the bunch, but the more upscale SE, XLE, and XSE Hybrid models return a notable 46 combined mpg.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 52 combined, 51 city / 53 highway |
Engine | 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 176 horses |
Torque | 163 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuous variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD |
Starting price | $28,655 |
Pricing for the LE Hybrid starts under $30,000. As expected of anything wearing a Camry badge, there are plenty of desirable features included and relatively spacious accommodations, making it a supremely efficient family or commuter car.
4 2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: 52 Combined MPG
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata is already one of the most appealing compact sedans available with its bevy of standard features, agreeable price, unique styling, comfort, and generous passenger and cargo space. Additionally, the Sonata Hybrid returns up to 52 combined mpg, making it one of the most efficient midsize sedans available. It returns 20 more miles to the gallon than the internal combustion-only Sonata.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 52 combined / 28 city, 38 highway |
Engine | 1.6-liter four-cylinder, 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 192 horses |
Torque | 139 pound-feet |
Transmission | Six-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Four-cylinder hybrid drivetrain |
Starting price | $28,100 |
The Sonata Hybrid is offered in three trim levels, and all are fitted by a four-cylinder hybrid drivetrain with a six-speed automatic transmission producing a total of 192 horsepower. The base “Blue” model starts at just $28,100, and for the features offered and the Sonata’s practicality and respectable driving dynamics, it’s easily one of the top choices among hybrid sedans.
3 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid: 53 Combined MPG
The Kia Niro rides into its 2023 model year with all-new, attention-grabbing looks, updated features and technology, and an agreeable starting price of $26,590. The subcompact crossover (we’d argue it's more of a hatchback) will net buyers an impressive 53 combined mpg in its most efficient trim. Even in its thirstiest guise, it’s rated for 49 combined MPG.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 53 combined / 53 city, 54 highway |
Engine | 1.6-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 139 horses |
Torque | 195 pound-feet |
Transmission | Six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD |
Starting price | $26,590 |
The Niro is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor for a total output of 139 horsepower. It isn’t quick, requiring 8.9 seconds to accelerate from 0-60 mph, but its small stature and efficiency make it a strong candidate for an urban cruiser. If the Niro’s notable fuel efficiency isn’t enough for prospective buyers, a plug-in hybrid model is also available.
2 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: 54 Combined MPG
The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid shares many of the same characteristics as its bigger brother, the Sonata. It delivers impressive small-sedan pragmaticism; it sports attention-grabbing looks. It comes with a bevy of standard features, respectable driving characteristics, and an attractive starting price of $24,550. And while it’s a bit smaller than the Sonata, it’s also more efficient, returning an excellent 54 combined mpg in its base trim.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 54 combined / 53 city, 56 highway |
Engine | 1.6-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 139 horses |
Torque | 195 pound-feet |
Transmission | Manual or automatic available |
Drivetrain | FWD |
Starting price | $24,550 |
The Elantra Hybrid’s 1.6-liter engine and electric motor combined for 139 horsepower and an impressive 195 pound-feet of torque, and unlike most of the models on this list, there’s no CVT. Instead, the Hyundai is fitted with a dual-clutch transmission.
1 2023 Toyota Prius: 57 Combined MPG
The Toyota Prius has been completely reworked for 2023, but it remains the most fuel-efficient hybrid on sale today. In its most economical trim, the Prius will return a staggering 57 combined mpg (57 city/56 highway). The Prius has long been an efficiency champ, but with its new generation, that’s now not its only appeal.
Specs and Features
Fuel economy | 57 combined / 57 city, 56 highway |
Engine | 2.0-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | 194–196 horses |
Torque | 139 pound-feet |
Transmission | Continuous variable transmission |
Drivetrain | FWD and AWD available |
Starting price | $27,450 |
The new Prius now has more power, 194 horses to be exact, it rides on a new platform that delivers improved driving dynamics, it now sports a non-polarizing design, and it comes packed with features and real-world pragmaticism. Additionally, it still starts at an agreeable $27,450. The 2023 Prius is a massive step forward for the model, and it is now far more appealing for those who want ultimate efficiency from a hybrid car.