The list includes vehicles chosen for their safety ratings, reliability scores, and retained value. Every recommended model earned either an IIHS Top Safety Pick award or an NHTSA five-star overall safety rating, while also achieving above-average J.D. Power quality and reliability results.
Hybrid SUVs have become increasingly common across the market, from affordable family crossovers to premium luxury entries. While new hybrid vehicles often carry higher sticker prices than gasoline-only versions, the used market offers buyers access to electrified powertrains at substantially lower prices.
Compact Hybrid SUVs Dominate the List
According to MotorTrend, several compact hybrid SUVs emerged as leading choices because of their combination of practicality, efficiency, and affordability. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid remains one of the most prominent entries, with fuel economy reaching up to 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, alongside a driving range of up to 580 miles. The model was praised for its spacious cabin, practical layout, and strong safety equipment. Critics pointed to engine noise, inconsistent suspension refinement, and steering feel as weaker points.
The 2022–2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid also ranked among the top recommendations. Honda’s hybrid crossover was recognized for smooth acceleration, balanced ride quality, and ergonomic interior controls. Fuel economy reaches up to 43 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, while acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 7.6 seconds. Some competing models offer more cargo space and stronger efficiency figures.
Hyundai and Kia also secured multiple spots in the compact segment. The 2022–2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid was commended for composed handling, strong build quality, and generous cargo space. Fuel economy reaches up to 38 mpg in both city and highway driving, with a driving range of up to 521 miles. Efficiency still trails some rivals and criticized the touch-sensitive center-console controls.
The 2023–2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid delivered some of the strongest range figures in the segment at up to 589 miles. Its turbocharged hybrid setup helped produce quicker acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. Reviewers highlighted the quiet cabin and upscale interior materials, while mentioning body roll and touch-sensitive controls as drawbacks.
Efficiency and Practicality Remain Central Priorities
Fuel economy figures varied across the models, though nearly every SUV on the list exceeded 35 mpg combined in at least some driving conditions. The 2022 Ford Escape Hybrid posted one of the highest city ratings at up to 44 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. It also offered a driving range of up to 582 miles.
The Escape Hybrid stood out for agile handling and straightforward digital interfaces with physical buttons for common controls. Still, the vehicle’s acceleration performance lagged behind some rivals at 8.7 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. Interior materials were also described as overly plasticky.
Among larger SUVs, the 2023–2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid added a third row while maintaining strong fuel efficiency. The midsize SUV offers seating for seven passengers and delivers up to 39 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, along with a driving range reaching 655 miles. The third row remains relatively tight and that acceleration can feel uneven.
Toyota’s 2022 Venza Hybrid approached the segment differently by emphasizing a more upscale presentation. Sharing much of its hardware with the RAV4 Hybrid, the Venza offered upgraded materials, larger infotainment screens, and a more refined exterior design. Fuel economy reached up to 40 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.
Luxury Hybrid SUVs Expand Fuel-Saving Options
Luxury hybrid SUVs also appeared prominently, particularly from Lexus. The 2022–2024 Lexus UX Hybrid focused heavily on efficiency, achieving up to 43 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. Despite being Lexus’ entry-level SUV, the model was recognized for smooth ride quality and strong interior craftsmanship.
The interior space remains one of the UX Hybrid’s largest compromises due to its compact size. Earlier versions also featured a touchpad infotainment system that reviewers found difficult to use. Models beginning in 2023 received an upgraded infotainment interface.
The larger 2023–2024 Lexus NX Hybrid offered a more premium approach with all-wheel drive capability, improved acceleration, and upscale styling. Fuel economy reached up to 41 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, while 0-to-60 mph acceleration was listed at 7.0 seconds. The plug-in hybrid version was described as particularly athletic.
Reviewers praised the NX Hybrid’s exterior styling, material quality, and overall luxury impression. At the same time, driving dynamics are not especially engaging and that the infotainment controls required adjustment.
Across the list, the selected SUVs reflected a consistent focus on balancing fuel savings, safety ratings, reliability, and everyday usability. Prices for the recommended models ranged from roughly $15,000 for a used Ford Escape Hybrid to around $39,000 for a Lexus NX Hybrid, creating options across multiple budget levels.
