Affordable Hybrid Cars: Top Picks for Budget-Conscious Buyers

Introduction

If you’re looking for an inexpensive new automobile, chances are you’d also like to save money on gas. Who wouldn’t want to? In this case, a hybrid vehicle makes a lot of sense.

However, hybrid vehicles are typically more costly than their gas-powered counterparts. These vehicles include a large battery and an electric motor in addition to their gas engine, so it is obvious to pay a bit more for those extra miles per gallon.

Now, while purchasing an efficient hybrid car or crossover may save you money on gas in the long run, spending less money in the first place is an equally effective way to save money.

And, thankfully, there is a crop of super-efficient hybrids available for even less than the average second-hand car. We’ve listed the 10 cheapest hybrid cars from least expensive to most. 

2023 Ford Maverick

Starting MSRP: $23,690

EPA Rated Fuel Economy figures: 37 MPG combined 

Overview

The Maverick sits on the same platform as the Bronco Sport small crossover rather than sharing parts and components with the Ranger. Despite being significantly smaller and less functional than other pickup trucks. If you can find one at the dealer, its beginning price is too good to pass up.

Not to mention, Ford’s base powerplant for the Maverick is hybrid. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total of 191 horsepower is standard across all grades. Only front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission are offered with this configuration.

The hybrid powertrain is less lively than the optional turbo four, but it does the job. A welcome trade-off for increased fuel efficiency. The EPA estimates that hybrid Maverick models get 42 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.

It can pull up to 2,000 pounds with the hybrid arrangement. The inside of the Maverick is sleek and appealing. It includes a simple infotainment system with mobile phone connectivity and a few ADAS capabilities.

Positives

• Low starting price.
• Hybrid powertrain is standard.

Negatives

• Base model are pretty basic.
• Not as capable as rivals.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 2.5 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 191 hp 
• Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive

2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $23,895

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 47 MPG combined

Overview

The Toyota Corolla has long been a top choice for compact car buyers in the US because it provides a cheap, dependable, safe, and pleasant way to commute.

The 12th-generation Toyota Corolla provides excellent fuel economy and a wealth of standard safety features in a compact device that also has an appealing appearance.

The Corolla is available as a sedan or hatchback and also comes with a very fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain with front- or all-wheel drive. The Corolla is an economical new automobile for customers who need a dependable people mover because adults can sit in the back seats without feeling cramped. Driving a Corolla won’t blow you away, but you’ll be impressed by its efficiency and good looks.

The EPA estimates the front-drive hybrid will earn 50 mpg city and 43 highway while the all-wheel drive one is rated for 47 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. 

Positives

• Looks good.
• Lots of standard advanced safety features.
• Available all-wheel drive.

Negatives

• Not very exciting to drive.
• Hatchback is not as practical.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 1.8 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 134 hp 
• Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic transmission
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive / All-wheel drive

2022 Hyundai Ioniq

Starting MSRP: $24,695

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 59 MPG (combined); 119 MPGe and 52 MPG for PHEV (combined)

Overview

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid made its debut for the 2017 model year. Since then, it has taken the crown of the most fuel-efficient car from its arch-rival, the Toyota Prius.

Anyone looking for a reasonably priced, fuel-efficient hybrid hatchback should consider the Ioniq.

In essence, it is a gas-electric five-door Elantra sedan. With up to 59 mpg in mixed driving, it boasts one of the best EPA ratings of any car that doesn’t need a plug.

But the Ioniq also comes in a plug-in hybrid version. It makes use of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine working in tandem with an electric motor, similar to the one found in the Kia Niro.

As far as driving experience goes, the Ioniq maintains its competitiveness in terms of driving performance on winding roads by responding dutifully to steering inputs and keeping a strong grip on the pavement.

But according to reports, Hyundai will stop making the Ioniq this year to concentrate on SUVs and completely electric vehicles.

Positives

• Incredibly fuel-efficient hybrid.
• Many available tech and driver aids.
• Handsome and eco-friendly cabin.

Negatives

• Not very powerful acceleration or exciting handling.
• Limited cargo space.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 139 hp 
• Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive

2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $25,665

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 54 MPG combined

Overview

Nowadays, driving on a budget does not always mean being chained to a run-of-the-mill vehicle. Think about the hybrid Hyundai Elantra. The Elantra Hybrid is one of the least expensive hybrid vehicles on our list, and its only real drawbacks are its cheap interior materials and loud gas engine.

 Apart from that, it has strong acceleration, assured handling, a comfortable ride, and excellent gas mileage. It also receives great grades for safety and has a variety of cutting-edge driver-assistance features.

This Hyundai hybrid car boasts a stylish interior, generous seats, and enough load space for its size. Additionally, it has desirable standard amenities like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, and an 8-inch touchscreen that is easy to operate.

The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and the electric motor in the Elantra hybrid produce a combined 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It has ratings of 53 cities and 56 highway mpg.

Positives

• Dramatic design.
• Roomy cabin.
• Lots of safety features.

Negatives

• Loads of hard interior plastics.
• Loud gas engine.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 139 hp 
• Transmission: Dual clutch transmission
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive 

2023 Kia Niro

Starting MSRP: $27,915

EPA Rated Fuel Economy: 50 MPG (combined); 105 MPGe and 46 MPG for PHEV (combined)

Overview

The Kia Niro is not only one of the cheapest hybrid cars in the market but also among the thriftiest ones. What’s more? Kia has given the Niro a complete makeover for the year 2023, with styling cues taken from the HabaNiro concept from 2019. With its quirky styling, the 2023 Kia Niro is sure to blend a bit of coolness with its eco-friendly reputation. 

However, the heart of the Niro remains unchanged; we’re not complaining either. It has a 139-hp four-cylinder hybrid as standard, but the snappier plug-in-hybrid model has a more powerful electric motor, increasing power to 180 horsepower.

The Niro hybrid can score up to 53 mpg in the city and 54 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. The plug-in hybrid vehicle, on the other hand, features an 11.1-kWh battery pack that is expected to deliver around 33 miles of electric driving range per charge.

Overall, the revised Kia Niro provides excellent fuel economy, a usable electric range, a more spacious interior than its predecessor, and great amenities for the money. However, keep in mind that higher trim levels might get costly.

Positives

• Incredibly efficient hybrid.
• Spacious cabin and cargo.
• Eager handling.

Negatives

• Could have gotten more ponies under the hood.
• Lacks optional all-wheel drive.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Hybrid 
• Horsepower: 139 hp / 180 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive

2023 Toyota Prius

Starting MSRP: $28,545

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 57 MPG combined

Overview

The Toyota Prius has been the flag bearer for hybrid cars. It checks all the boxes for usability. It is dependable, cost-effective, safe, and incredibly efficient. This Prius variant boasts a superb combined fuel efficiency of up to 57 mpg.

But, there’s more. 

The Toyota Prius 2023 begins a new fifth generation that has been completely revamped and improved both inside and out. The Prius has developed from probably the ugliest automobile on the market to a gorgeous vehicle. The new Prius has up to 196 horsepower, the most ever offered by a Prius. Not only is the Prius faster than many of its hybrid competitors, but its improved performance has come at no sacrifice to fuel economy.

A newly revamped cabin offers a more traditional approach to the driver’s-space arrangement, with larger screens and a more enticing feature set that includes optional heated rear seats.

Altogether, the 2023 Toyota Prius continues to be a practical and efficient hybrid, but without being boring.

Positives

• Beautiful new design.
• Better performance.
• Great fuel economy.

Negatives

• Slightly limited headroom.
• Cargo is not as big.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 2.0 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 196 hp 
• Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive / all-wheel drive

2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $28,815

EPA Rated Fuel Economy figures:  43 MPG (combined); 84 MPGe and 34 MPG for PHEV (combined)

Overview

The Kia Sportage has been entirely redesigned for 2023, with a striking exterior design, greater size, and new hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The redesigned Sportage has a more appealing and larger cabin, as well as superior handling, which makes driving more fun.

A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a single electric motor combine to produce 226 horsepower in the hybrid variant. It can achieve up to 42 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive models earn 38 MPG on the highway and in town.

There is also a plug-in hybrid with an all-wheel drive. It boasts a more powerful electric motor as well as a larger battery. Kia claims that the PHEV model can travel 32 miles on battery alone, but the EPA has yet to approve it.

Positives

• Responsive hybrid powertrain.
• Plush ride.
• Roomy interior with loads of tech.

Negatives

• Dull driving dynamics.
• Polarizing exterior design.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Hybrid / 1.6 L Inline 4 plug-in Hybrid 
• Horsepower: 226 hp / 261 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive / All-wheel drive

2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $29,215

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 52 MPG combined

With the eye-catching Sonata, Hyundai injects much-needed color into an otherwise bland segment: mid-size family cars. The cabin is also outfitted with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology. It has two rows of seats that are suitable for adults, plenty of trunk capacity, user-friendly entertainment technology, and a plethora of safety features. With a long lineup of powerful powertrains, including a gas-saving hybrid, the Sonata makes a solid case.

The Sonata Hybrid has a gasoline engine that works in tandem with an electric motor to power the front wheels, producing a total of 195 horsepower. The Blue hybrid is predicted to score up to 50 mpg in the city and 54 mpg on the highway, while the other hybrid Sonatas are anticipated to earn 45 and 51 mpg, accordingly.

The Sonata Hybrid has enough power for both city and motorway driving. You’ll enjoy its fuel-saving efforts, but you’ll notice its obtrusive switch between gas and electric power sources. The Sonata isn’t the most agile driver in its class, but it’s nevertheless composed and responsive on the road.

When considering the Sonata’s pricing, features, and overall value, it is clear that it represents a remarkable option.

Positives

• Eye-catching design.
• Beautiful cabin brimming with features.

Negatives

• Somewhat tall driving position.
• Not a very sharp handler.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 2.0 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 195 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive

2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $29,450

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 52 MPG combined

Overview

While the market has shifted to SUVs, the Camry has maintained its position as the best-selling passenger car, a position it has held for the past two decades. It has a well-deserved reputation for dependability, and it provides a hybridized version with excellent fuel economy.

The standard LE Camry Hybrid achieves up to 51 mpg city and 53 mpg highway. Upper trim levels of the hybrid compromise efficiency for luxury. The 208-horsepower Hybrid powertrain is quiet, fast to accelerate, and lively enough for interstate travel. This Toyota handles nicely as well, albeit the steering may use some improvement.

While the Camry Hybrid is not an exciting car to drive, its safety features, fuel-efficient engines, and spacious interior make it a capable and easy-to-live-with everyday driver.

Positives

• Smooth and efficient hybrid powertrain.
• Roomy interior.
• Proven reliability.
• Lots of standard safety tech.

Negatives

• Some cheap materials are in base models.
• Not as exciting to drive as some rivals.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 2.5 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 208 hp 
• Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive

2023 Honda Accord Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $32,990

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 48 MPG Combined

Overview

The Accord is all-new for the 2023 model year and features a sophisticated design. This Honda hybrid provides spacious seats in both rows, a huge trunk, and an extensive list of standard equipment. The Accord Hybrid also has a luxurious interior and a thorough set of safety features. Because of its refined driving abilities and agile handling, any Accord is a delight to drive, but the Accord Hybrid adds exceptional gas mileage to this winning mix.

The hybrid powertrain has become a more important element of the Accord selection for this new generation, as it is standard on all trims except the two most affordable.

The higher trims are all propelled by a new 204-hp  hybrid powertrain lifted almost entirely from the CR-V. The Accord achieves 48 mpg combined city/highway, making it excellent for long-distance commuting, daily errands, and everything in between.

Positives

• Comfortable yet a good handler.
• Roomy rear seats and trunk.
• Good safety ratings.

Negatives

• No all-wheel drive.
• Warmed-over underpinnings.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: 2.0 L Inline 4 Hybrid
• Horsepower: 204 hp 
• Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
• Drive Type: Front wheel drive

Final Thoughts

Over time, hybrid technology has advanced significantly, and hybrid car costs have fallen. Many of these automobiles have similar performance to conventional gas-only cars, are loaded with standard equipment, safe, useful, and environmentally friendly. Due to the quick torque generated by their hybrid powertrain, hybrid automobiles can occasionally perform better than gas-powered ones. However, we recommend choosing your vehicle by factoring in your requirements and not merely on the price tag.

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