Automakers decided to ease into the market with the world moving towards full electrification by the day. They started slowly with hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles instead of full-scale EVs. And, if you are wondering what the difference is between the two, the answer is simple: a plug-in hybrid vehicle typically uses the electric motor until the battery runs out, while in the hybrid models, the battery is powerful enough for driving at slower speeds.

In other words, in a hybrid SUV, the electric motor is put there just to improve fuel economy. The list of hybrid SUVs is very long, and almost every automaker, from Toyota to Honda and Ford, offers hybrid powertrains in its lineup. But the question is: What is the best hybrid SUV in 2023? Of course, many options exist, but here are your fifteen best ones.

Updated on July 22, 2023: Over the decades, numerous Hybrid SUVs have come and gone that have gained a place in our hearts, so we have decided to refresh and update this list. That means instead of burying this one into the endless articles lost to the internet, the original ten vehicles can be found below, and a few new ones to help expand your excitement and knowledge.

Related: 15 Best Plug-In Hybrid SUVs

15 Honda CR-V Hybrid: Classic Honda Reliability And Fuel Economy

Starting MSRP: $28,410

The Honda CR-V is one of the best-sold vehicles in the States, outsold only by the Toyota RAV4. And, since Toyota proved the Hybrid RAV4 is a hit, Honda decided to take the same path, offering a hybrid powertrain for the CR-V. The 2023 CR-V Hybrid features the all-new fourth-generation, two-motor hybrid-electric system that combines the newly refined 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors for a combined 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque.

Honda CR-V Specifications

It also features enhanced regenerative braking and one-pedal driving that helps improve fuel economy to 38 mpg in combined driving. The Hybrid trim gets a Sport mode which you cannot get in the gas-powered model. The CR-V Hybrid is offered in three trims with prices ranging from $32,950 to $39,100. The spacious cabin provides good-quality materials, comfortable seats, and lots of cargo space. JD Power found the CR-V Hybrid better to drive than the conventional CR-V, with "enhanced drivability and superior fuel economy."

14 Kia Sportage Hybrid: Perfect For Big Families And Big Cargo

Starting MSRP: $28,815

Kia has evolved a lot from its days of building cheap, econobox cars, so, as no surprise, American customers love its models. The Sportage - one of the most appreciated SUVs in its segment – was completely redesigned for the 2023 model year, including the addition of a hybrid model. The Sportage's hybrid powertrain combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with a 44-kilowatt motor and a hybrid starter-generator that delivers a combined 227 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. There is also a small battery pack that stores the 1.5 kWh of energy produced by the generator for later use. The 2023 Sportage Hybrid comes in three trims: LX, EX, and SX-Prestige, with prices ranging from $28,815 to $36,190.

Kia Sportage Specifications

When compared to the model it replaces, the 2023 Sportage Hybrid features a new design language and has grown in size, which allows it to offer best-in-class rear seat legroom and rear cargo capacity - up to 73.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. It also provides great fuel economy figures, with up to 43 mpg on combined driving, making it one of the best hybrid SUVs. The Kia Sportage Hybrid also offers an impressive array of standard advanced driver aids plus a long list of additional tech features, and, according to Edmunds, its "ride quality is excellent."

13 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: The Standard For Compact Hybrid SUVs

Starting MSRP: $31,225

Placed under the Highlander in Toyota's lineup, and featuring a powerful powertrain, decent performance figures, and a comfortable ride, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid sets the standard for the compact hybrid SUVs. It features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine assisted by two electric motors for a combined output of 219 horsepower and a fuel economy of 41 mpg during city driving. The 2023 RAV4 Hybrid is offered in six trims, with prices ranging from $30,725 to $39,030, plus the Woodland Edition, priced at $33,525. With more than 360,000 copies sold in 2022, the RAV4 is the bestselling SUV in the States, and for good reason.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Specifications

The model features a very distinctive exterior look, a comfortable ride, and a roomy interior with many cool tech features, including a recently updated infotainment system and many safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance. The RAV4 also offers a smooth ride and "can cover long and short distances in pleasant comfort."

Related: 10 Hybrid SUVs That Are Perfect For Long Road Trips

12 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: The Quickest In Its Class

Starting MSRP: $31,350

Redesigned for the 2022 model year, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid will help you stand out in a sea of compact SUV crossovers that all look pretty much identical. But the Tucson brings a unique design, a spacious cabin, lots of cargo space, brisk acceleration, plus a comfortable ride. The 2023 Tucson Hybrid combines a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor that delivers a combined 226 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Specifications

The SUV needs 7.7 seconds to sprint from 0 to 60 MPH, and while it may sound slow, it is still the quickest in the class. And you don't buy the Tucson Hybrid for the speed anyway. The Hybrid Tucson is offered in three trims, with power ranging from $31,350 to $39,110. The SUV offers a very long list of standard tech and safety features, and Car And Driver found the ride "well controlled" and the steering "pleasantly weighted."

11 Toyota Venza: The Third Most Reliable Mid-size SUV

Starting MSRP: $34,620

Built on the same platform as the Toyota RAV4 and the Lexus NX, the Toyota Venza is placed between the two models in terms of space and luxury. It is equipped with the Toyota Hybrid System II powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with three electric motors for a combined 219 horsepower. With three driving modes to choose from, the Venza is a quiet, smooth, and incredibly efficient ride perfect for small families. The cabin offers an incredible level of comfort, with high-quality materials, all the latest tech features, and a spacious cargo area.

Toyota Venza Specifications

The SUV is also loaded with lots of safety features, and it is the third most reliable mid-size hybrid SUV, according to Consumer Reports. The 2023 Venza is offered in four trims, and while the entry-level is relatively affordable at $34,620, the top Limited trim can get quite expensive at $42,265, which is to be expected since one of the disadvantages of hybrid SUVs is the higher price.

10 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: The Perfect Daily Driver

Starting MSRP: $36,210

The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid was introduced for the 2021 model year, and in only two years, it became a top contender in the hybrid SUV class. The Santa Fe Hybrid combines a six-speed automatic with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and a pair of electric motors for a total of 226 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid SUV is offered in three trims with prices ranging from $36,210 to $41,870 and should be the perfect fit for those wanting a model placed between the Tucson and the three-row Palisade.

Hyundai Sante Fe Hybrid Specifications

The Santa Fe Hybrid has plenty of interior room and up to 72.1 cubic feet of storage space, plus a fuel economy rating of up to 36 mpg, which, in all honesty, is a little under its competition. Still, what makes the Santa Fe Hybrid a good pick is its "relaxed and stable ride during everyday duties" and its "agility and steering feedback" that will satisfy those who enjoy driving. The Santa Fe Hybrid is also Consumer Report's most reliable mid-size hybrid SUV, scoring 88 out of 100.

Related: 10 Hybrid Vehicles That Are Stylish And Fun to Drive

9 Kia Sorento Hybrid: The Mid-Size SUV That Does It All

Starting MSRP: $36,690

The Kia Sorento Hybrid is a mid-sized SUV slightly smaller than the well-known Telluride but a little bigger than the compact Sportage. As you would imagine, the middle sibling is one of the go-to vehicles when looking for a Hybrid SUV that gets decent range but still has a good amount of power and torque. To top that all off, the Sorento is one of the few three-row SUVs designed with an optional Hybrid system (or standard Hybrid system like the Toyota Venza.

Kia Sorento Hybrid Specifications

For 2023 Kia went away from something they have worked so hard to achieve: offering an affordable entry-level model. The company removed the low-level base model and included a high-level, more expensive SX Prestige model instead, effectively throwing its hats into the more advanced SUV segment of the industry. Even so, the Kia Sorento Hybrid still received an 86 out of 100 road test score and a three out of five reliability rating from Consumer Reports for 2023.

8 Lexus UX: Small, But Plush And Comfortable

Starting MSRP: $36,690

Depending upon the drivetrain that has been opted for, you could end up with two or three electric motors to go along with the in-line four-cylinder under the hood. AWD versions get an extra motor to help propel the extra set of drive wheels, which gives the SUV a little more pull when getting on the gas pedal. The Lexus UX is only available as a Hybrid, so there is no chance of getting a new ICE version here.

Lexus UX Specifications

The UX has the same foundation as the Chevy Prius, so even though it is shaped like an SUV, it is more like a car when you are behind the wheel. That means the acceleration times are not that great, 0 to 60 MPH in 8.2 seconds, but the fuel mileage is one of the highest in the class, 42 MPG combined. As you would expect in a Lexus, though, the interior is plush and full of the finer things in life, such as state-of-the-art technology, heated seats, ventilated seats, dual climate controls, and more.

7 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Slow, But Steady And Reliable

Starting MSRP: $36,845

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid was the carmaker's first attempt into the realm of electrification, followed closely by the Solterra. The Crosstrek Hybrid was produced off the same visual and performance cues as the well-known Impreza, so as you would expect, the Crosstrek is a relatively reliable SUV, receiving a top-end rating of four out of five in reliability, with a very impressive 85 out of 100 overall score from Consumer Reports.

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Specifications

The Subaru Crosstrek is not one of the fastest Hybrid models on the market, only being able to muster 0 to 60 MPH in 8.4 seconds and topping out at just over 120 MPH. That may not be an important number when you look at an SUV because they were initially designed to haul families and household items, but that is not necessarily the case today. People expect power, speed, performance, and the ability to carry out everyday chores wrapped up into one little vehicle. However, Subaru is known for dependable rides that can go just about anywhere, even if it is a little slower than the competition.

Related: 10 Most Affordable Hybrid SUVs In 2023

6 Ford Escape Hybrid: One Of The Best Hybrids For Small Families

Starting MSRP: $40,500

While the 2023 Ford Escape Hybrid does not deliver the same amount of power as the competition and can get a little bit expensive, it is still one of the best hybrid SUVs for small families. It features a 2.5-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine combined with one electric motor, which is ultimately good for around 40 mpg during city driving. It runs from 0 to 60 MPH in 8.7 seconds, but you shouldn't buy it for the speed.

Ford Escape Hybrid Specifications

Instead, you should look into the cabin comfort, the 13.2-inch touchscreen included in the higher trims, or the five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Motor Trend thinks the Escape Hybrid is the model to get, and it "rides and handles well enough for a compact crossover."

5 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Seven Seats And 36 MPG

Starting MSRP: $40,620

Although it has a very long list of competitors, its seven-seater configuration, the comfy interior, the long list of safety assist and tech features, and the impressive fuel economy make the Toyota Highlander Hybrid one of the best hybrid SUVs you can pick for your family. The 2023 Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motor generators for a total of 243 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The model is very spacious inside, with up to 84.3 cubic feet of storage space, and has a fuel economy of 36 mpg.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Specifications

Depending on the trim you go for, prices range from $40,220 to $50,475, making it slightly more expensive than the competition. However, the Highlander Hybrid makes up with an upscale, very well-built cabin, a driver-oriented infotainment system, and a very relaxed ride. The Highlander Hybrid is also a very reliable car, and it received a perfect five-star rating from NHTSA.

4 Lexus NX Hybrid: Perfect For Long Drives

Starting MSRP: $43,805

If you are looking to buy a compact hybrid SUV, you should know that the Lexus NX Hybrid has been rated by Consumer Reports as the most reliable one, with a score of 87 out of 100. Priced at $43,805, the NX350h features a hybrid powertrain that pairs two electric motors with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder for a combined output of 239 horsepower. In terms of performance, the NX350h needs 7.6 seconds to run from 0 to 60 MPH and is placed under both the NX350 (6.6 seconds) and the NX450+ plug-in hybrid SUV.

Lexus NX Hybrid Specifications

But that is something you need to expect as a hybrid is not as performance-oriented as an ICE vehicle. Since we are talking about a Lexus hybrid SUV, you can expect high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and lots of cool tech features. Car And Driver says that the "comfortable front seats are perfect for long drives."

Related: 10 Hybrid SUVs That Are Perfect For City Driving

3 Ford Explorer Hybrid: Decent Fuel Economy For The Size

Starting MSRP: $47,070

Offering room for up to seven people, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is a big and roomy SUV, perfect for large families. The Explorer Hybrid features a 3.3-liter V-6 engine paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque, but it garners a modest 27 mpg on combined driving. It can be had in RWD or AWD configurations and has responsive steering.

Ford Explorer Hybrid Specifications

The 2023 Explorer Hybrid can also handle some light off-road driving and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. It also has a cargo room of up to 87.8 cubic feet. For 2023, the hybrid powertrain configuration is only offered for the Limited and Platinum models, and the prices start at $47,070 for the lowest trim and option level and go up from there.

2 Lexus RX Hybrid: A Classic That Is Now A Legend

Starting MSRP: $48,950

Another Lexus that needs to be mentioned is the Lexus RX Hybrid, which makes use of a 2.5-liter engine and two electric motors, one on the front and one on the back. The RX comes in ten different trim levels, ranging from the base level (performance shown below) to the high-end sport edition that could pack a punch of 367 horses that can shoot the SUV from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.5 seconds. It's no Tesla, but it can hold its own for a Hybrid SUV.

Lexus RX Hybrid Specifications

According to the people at Lexus, the RX300 back in 1999 was the SUV that kicked everything off. The first luxury crossover that started the entire movement that has gone completely bonkers today. Being around for that long should tell you how good the car is, but if not, check out Consumer Reports. They show that owner satisfaction is five out of five, reliability is four out of five, the road test score was 86 out of 100, and the impressive overall score for the Lexus RX Hybrid is 86 out of 100.

1 Toyota Sequoia: A Full-Size Powerhouse

Starting MSRP: $59,865

Toyota is such a reputable carmaker that it gains another spot on this list with the Sequoia. The Toyota Sequoia is available with a Hybrid powertrain, driven by the combination of a six-cylinder engine and an electric motor merging to push out over 400 horses and, more impressively, almost 600 pound-feet of torque.

Toyota Sequoia Specifications

Consumer Reports was not as kind to the Sequoia as some other SUVs here, but it shows how loyal owners are. Owner satisfaction with the Sequoia is a four out of five, even though the rest of the testing indicates that there may be some issues with the handling and braking. Regardless, the large SUV is well-liked by most critics on the internet, and some would even say it is the best option for the segment.