| Purchase advice
Buyers looking to transition to EV driving have many options.
Duncan BradywriterMotorTrend employeesPhotographerManufacturerPhotographer
Electric vehicles are the future, but for most people they are not the present. Many buyers are not ready to acceptthe tricky road trips, unreliable charging networks and the inevitable range anxiety that comes with owning an EV but are still interested in the instant torque and fewer trips to the gas station.
For these folks, a plug-in hybrid can be the perfect middle ground. They offer enough EV range for many daily trips and a petrol engine for longer trips. Luckily there are many options. Every plug-in hybrid SUV on the market is here.
Dodge Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid: what we think
There's a lot to like about Dodge's new plug-in hybrid SUV,the hornet, at least on paper. We expect the R/T's 288hp and instant torque to feel mighty fast in an SUV of this size, and the styling works by translating the brand's muscular design language into a small SUV. Our only concern so far is that the PHEV battery limits cargo space. We look forward to getting behind the wheel.
Dodge Hornet R/T Plug-in Hybrid Specifications
Starting price:$40,000 (East MT)
Electric range:More than 30 miles (mfr est)
Performance (0-60mph):6.1 seconds (mfr east)
Cargo area (seats up/down):22.9/50.5 cubic feet
Ford Escape plug-in hybrid: what we think
ThePHEV escapeimpresses with its large electric range and plenty of space behind the rear seats. Plus, an update for 2023 means improved technology and a sharper designcompact plug-in hybrid SUV. The cabin is packed with cheap-looking plastics, however, and we found the seats to be flat and lacking in support. Also, you can't get an Escape plug-in hybrid with AWD; it's only FWD.
Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Specifications
Starting price:42.640 $
Electric range:37 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):40 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):7.7 seconds
Cargo area (seats up/down):34.4/60.8 cubic feet
Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid: what we think
Hyundai introducedthe Tucson plug-in hybridas part of the 2022 compact SUV redesign, and it's a solid offering. The boxy exterior and sleek interior design are just as strong here as the standard Tucson, and the plug-in offers standard AWD at a relatively reasonable price. We don't like the capacitive touch buttons, however, and aren't particularly efficient when the battery dies.
Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid: Specifications
Starting price:36.695 $
Electric range:33 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):35 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):7.1 seconds
Cargo area (seats up/down):31.9/66.3 cubic feet
Hyundai Santa Fe plug-in hybrid: what we think
Want something similar to the Tucson but one size up? Luckily, Hyundai is building a plug-in hybrid version ofthe mid-sized Santa Fe. The result is a compelling premium SUV with tons of features per dollar and tons of cargo space. Hyundai's larger plug-in doesn't do anything innovative, however, and 30 miles of electric range is pretty minimal.
Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid: Specifications
Starting price:43.445 $
Electric range:30 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):33 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):7.0 seconds
hold:36.4/72.1 cubic feet
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: What we think
If you're looking for a plug-in that's big and convenient enough for a family trip and powerful enough to take off the sidewalk,der Grand Cherokee 4xeis hard to beat. The plug-in mid-size SUV is truly luxurious and drives much better than you would expect from a Jeep. Plus, off-road capability is even higher if you opt for the Trailhawk trim. Complaints? It's expensive and doesn't have much electric range. Regardless, this is a truly desirable SUV. Cute blue tow hooks too.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: Specifications
Starting price:63.890 $
Electric range:26 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):23 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):6.5 seconds
hold:37.7/70.8 cubic feet
Jeep Wrangler 4xe: what we think
As strong as the Grand Cherokee can be off-road, it's nearly impossible to match the Wrangler's performance on the trail.The Wrangler 4xeis just as capable as its gas-only siblings, and the added weight of the battery is, indeedadds some stability.
To be fair though, powertrain refinement and brake feel require some work and once the battery has used up all of its electrons the fuel economy fails to impress. It's expensive, too, and buyers who don't take advantage of the Wrangler's off-road capabilities may find it difficult to justify its vague steering and truck-like handling.
Jeep Wrangler 4xe: Specifications
Starting price:56.530 $
Electric range:22 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):20 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):6.8 seconds
hold:27.7/67.4 cubic feet
Kia Niro plug-in hybrid: what we think
light uprevised the Niro PHEV(also available in hybrid and full EV) for 2023, updating the bold little hatchback SUV with angular exterior design, a more modern interior and more power. It offers a lot of interior space for its size and clever storage solutions, as well as a lot of technology. It's also by far the cheapest vehicle on our list. The cabin can feel a little cheap, however, and the ride is stiff and twitchy. Not to mention, the Niro's lack of AWD will keep some buyers away.
Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid Specifications
Starting price:35.165 $
Electric range:33 miles
Performance (0-60mph):7.3 seconds
Cargo area (seats up/down):19.4/54.6 cubic feet
Kia Sportage plug-in hybrid: what we think
We found a lot that we likethe Kia Sportage plug-in hybrid. It sure is expensive, but the hybrid system is seamlessly integrated andInterior design is excellent. We have an issue with the HVAC and infotainment control dual function unit, which makes it easy to drop the temperature when trying to change radio stations. Still, this is a solid choice.
Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid Specifications
Starting price:40.015 $
Electric range:34 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):35 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):7.1 seconds
Cargo area (seats up/down):34.5/65.5 cubic feet
Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid: what we think
Wespent a yearwith the Kia Sorento, and we're big fans. That's good newsthe Sorento plug-in hybridretains everything we love about its gas-powered sidekick. Buyers get the same spacious cabin, a surprisingly usable third row, great design inside and out, and generous, effective driver assistance systems. We'd like there to be a charge saver mode so drivers can choose when to take advantage of its 32-mile electric range, but this three-row plug-in still has plenty of appeal.
Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid Specifications
Starting price:51.315 $
Electric range:32 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):34 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):7.4 seconds
Cargo area (behind the third/second/first row):12.6/45.0/75.5 cubic feet
Mazda CX-90: what we think
Der Mazda CX-90is the newest vehicle on this list and a big deal for the brand. As the brand's new flagship, the CX-90 has the potential to propel Mazda into the upscale market while trying to become a semi-luxury premium brand. It's also the brand's first plug-in hybrid for the United States, so we're curious to see how Mazda handles the tricky parts like the powertrain and brake compound, and if the interior feels as plush as it looks.
Mazda CX-90: Specifications
Starting price:$60,000 (Eastern MT)
Electric range:35 miles (MT East)
Performance (0-60mph):6.0 seconds (MT East)
Mini Cooper Countryman All4 plug-in hybrid: what we think
For buyers who want a reasonably spacious plug-in hybrid with styling like a Mini,der SE Countrymanis the perfect choice. We also found the stock AWD system stable and confident on icy roads. However, you're paying for that iconic mini look; The plug-in Countryman is more expensive than other comparably sized alternatives, and both its electric range and gas-only fuel economy fail to impress. Tight trunk too.
Mini Cooper SE Countryman All4: Specifications
Starting price:49.595 $
Electric range:17 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):29 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):6.5 seconds (mfr east)
Cargo area (seats up/down):17.2/47.4 cubic feet
Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid: what we think
Misubishi introduced firstthe Outlander Hybridback in 2012; These engineers were way ahead of the game. As part of a 2022 redesign, the Outlander now shares a platform with the Nissan Rogue, and the plug-in hybrid variant has received a major makeover. The result is a feature-rich, distinctively styled, comfortable SUV that has a third row to transport additional elementary school students in an emergency. We're also impressed with the EV range.
All in all, the third row can't accommodate adults, the petrol engine booms and is underpowered, and the plush suspension can struggle during fast transitions. If you want a three-row plug-in and can swing the higher price point, the Sorento is a better choice.
Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid: Specifications
Starting price:42.180 $
Electric range:38 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):26 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):6.5 seconds
Cargo area (behind the third/second/first row):11.7/33.5/79.7 cubic feet
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: What we think
The Crosstrek Hybrid, unfortunately, misses the mark in many ways. We still appreciate the Crosstrek's off-road capability in a small package, and it has excellent safety ratings and safety features. But its battery offers limited electric range and encroaches on the Crosstrek's already cramped cargo space. Fortunately there isa heavily updated versioncoming for 2024.
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Specifications
Starting price:38.070 $
Electric range:17 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):35 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):8.3 seconds
Cargo area (seats up/down):15.9/43.1 cubic feet
Toyota RAV4 Prime: what we think
With the RAV4 Prime, Toyota has built the perfect variant of its best-selling SUV for buyers who are curious about electric vehicles but not yet ready to give up the combustion engine. It is a top choice amongPlug-in-Kompakt-SUVdue to its strong performance, long EV range (the longest on this list) and generous safety equipment, as well as excellent hybrid system integration. There is one small downside – the battery cuts into the cargo area. If you want the extra power and efficiency of the plug-in hybrid system, it's a small price to pay.
Toyota RAV4 Prime: Technische Daten
Starting price:43.675 $
Electric range:42 miles
Gas MPG (combi city/highway):29 mpg
Performance (0-60mph):5.5 seconds
Cargo area (seats up/down):33.4/63.1 cubic feet
Luxury plug-in hybrid SUVs
For those looking for a part-electric SUV with added convenience, there are a variety of luxury manufacturers jumping on the plug-in hybrid bandwagon. Whether you want a compact or three-row, somewhat affordable or six-figure value, there are options. The good news is that we have a list ofany luxury plug-in hybrid SUV, to.
Each PHEV SUV:
- Dodge-Hornisse
- Ford Escape Plug-in-Hybrid
- Hyundai Tucson Plug-in-Hybrid
- Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in-Hybrid
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
- JeepWrangler 4xe
- Kia Niro PHEV
- Kia Sportage Plug-in-Hybrid
- Kia Sorento Plug-in-Hybrid
- Mazda CX-90
- Mini Cooper SE Countryman All4
- Mitsubishi Outlander-Hybrid
- Subaru Crosstrek-Hybrid
- Toyota RAV4 Prime