For starters, electric cars are not appealing to everyone. There's indeed the lure of carbon-free emissions, but even for the best and most advanced electric cars on the market, they drive distances of about 400 miles between charges.
Plug-in Hybrids strike the ideal balance between eco-friendly motoring and go-anywhere flexibility for drivers. A PHEV can typically handle between 12 and 30 miles using electric power. A gasoline engine fires up and works with the electric motor to provide relatively low fuel consumption. Below is a list of some of the best Plug-in Hybrid vehicles available for less than $40,000.
8 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid – $35,345
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is worth a try when shopping for a reliable and affordable family vehicle. The high-riding hatchback is relatively athletic and a comfortable daily driver. It is a five-seater vehicle that comes in five trim levels. The most popular style is the Hybrid which comes with a 2.0-liter engine, electric powertrain, and all-wheel drive.
The benefit of this setup is that it gets 17 miles of all-electric range before the four-cylinder engine is activated. Its interior boasts a roomy seating space, easy-to-use infotainment features, and active safety features. The Crosstrek offers an incredible driving experience.
7 Toyota RAV4 Prime – $39,565
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid variant of the standard five-passenger RAV4, a small SUV that drives like the big guys. This vehicle comes in two trim levels. The most popular style is the SE which comes with a Plug-in Hybrid setup, 2.5-liter I4 engine, and all-wheel drive.
This system adds approximately 40 miles of all-electric driving range to the already fuel-efficient RAV4 Hybrid. Like all RAV4s, the Hybrid has a spacious interior with a sizeable cargo bay. Its cabin is well-equipped with a wide range of standard features to aid the driver.
6 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – $36,295
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a stunning vehicle that comes packed with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, a 2.4-liter I4 engine, and four-wheel drive.
The compact crossover's interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with three rows of seats to accommodate seven passengers. Its cargo space is relatively spacious, with the folding back seats providing a way for more luggage. The Outlander is an affordable choice that includes a surprising number of standard features and an infotainment system. Once it hits the road, the Outlander feels so responsive.
5 Honda Clarity – $34,415
The 2021 Honda Clarity is an eco-friendly sedan sold in two variants: a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle and a hydrogen fuel. The most popular style is the Hybrid. The Honda Clarity Hybrid comes with a Plug-in Hybrid 1.5-liter I4 engine and front-wheel drive. Despite its advanced methods of propulsion, the Clarity's fuel efficiency is beyond reproach.
Its interior offers comfortable leather seats for five passengers. Honda's signature shines through its user-friendly cabin and fully equipped safety tech to keep occupants protected at all times. This vehicle offers unprecedented versatility and superb efficiency for daily drivers.
4 Ford Escape PHEV – $32,650
The 2021 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is an all-new variant of the recently redesigned Ford Escape. The Plug-In Hybrid comes in three trim levels: the SE, SEL, and Titanium. The most popular style is the SE Plug-In Hybrid, which comes with a battery and electric motor in addition to the 2.5-liter I4 engine.
With a full battery, the vehicle is estimated to run 37 miles on electric power before it switches to gasoline operation. The Escape also boasts a robust suite of standard safety features and performs well in safety tests. Above all these, the Escape Hybrid is engaging and satisfying to drive.
3 Toyota Prius Prime – $28,220
The 2021 Prius Prime is the only Toyota Prius with a Plug-In Hybrid powertrain. Like all other Prius models, the Prime looks more of a sci-fi spaceship than a hot hatch. This Hybrid is pretty quick and fun to drive and comes with impressive EPA fuel economy ratings.
At 25 miles, its electric driving range is short and valuable. While it doesn't make the best car for long road trips, the Prius Prime comes in handy for people who desire an eco-friendly life and tend to drive short distances.
2 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid – $29,590
The 2021 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid is an affordable and economical crossover that gives consumers money value. Niro Plug-In Hybrid comes as a five-seater vehicle in 7 trim levels. The most popular style is the Plug-In Hybrid EX which comes with a battery and electric motor, as well as a 1.6-liter I4 engine and front-wheel-drive.
The vehicle's interior has desirable features such as a power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. The cabin is relatively roomy, suited with driver safety aids and adaptive cruise control. Those looking for a greener driving on a budget should add the Niro to the list.
1 Hyundai Ioniq – $26,700
The Hyundai Ioniq is a small five-door hatchback offered in Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains that prioritize efficiency. The Hyundai Ioniq comes in seven trim levels. The most preferred model is the Plug-In Hybrid SEL which features a 1.6-liter I4 engine and front-wheel-drive.
It has similar styling and usability to non-hybrids, making it easy for those wanting to switch from conventional vehicles to limit carbon emissions. The Ioniq is a daily driver's top choice since it's comfortable and fuel-efficient. Finally, Hyundai has a class-leading warranty and safety tech, which help sweeten the deal.