Fully electric and hybrid drivetrains are fast gaining traction in the automotive sector, so it's no wonder that hybrid SUVs are the next major hit in the auto industry. A handful of automakers were engaged in hybrid sports utility creation a few decades ago, but today, various auto manufacturers have tasted success by offering hybrid powertrains as an option on some of their best-selling SUVs.
Although there are a plethora of vehicles that are purely driven by gasoline, ones that combine batteries with enhanced fuel efficiency are far superior and environmentally benign. Moreover, the need for an eco-friendly alternative with high-end characteristics, off-road capability, and modern technology has accelerated the race to design the ultimate hybrid sport-ute. As a result, some of the coolest hybrid models are now available, potentially saving thousands of dollars in gas. Let's look at some of the best hybrid SUVs for 2021.
9 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring Hybrid
The journey of the Lincoln Aviator's resurrection has been absolutely remarkable; it goes from being one of Lincoln's shortest-produced cars to being one of the finest, high-styled, and comfortable hybrid SUVs currently on the street. After a 13-year hiatus, the second-generation Aviator made its debut in 2019.
The Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring Hybrid is a beast with a 13.6 kWh battery pack driving a 75 kW motor, which enhances a conventional twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine that pumps out an impressive performance figure of 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, in addition to its plug-in hybrid technology, the SUV's additional driving modes, aid the SUV from stored power, which is truly exceptional.
8 Volvo XC90 Recharge
Volvo's quest to offer a hybrid option has undoubtedly unearthed a gem with the XC90 Recharge. The 7-seater Swedish luxury utility outperforms its value with its futuristic design, high-end materials crafted interior with Scandinavian flair, spacious cabin, and its pure electric mode that eliminates all tailpipe emissions.
Volvo's safety reputation is preserved by its added tech and intelligent driver-assist technology, which can detect and avoid crashes at any time. This plug-in hybrid SUV is also a head-turner, with a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine supplemented by a rear-mounted electric motor that together generates 400 hp. It has a peak speed of 112 mph and has an all-electric range of 18 miles when fully charged.
7 Kia Niro Hybrid
The Niro Hybrid is not only Kia's most affordable green vehicle, but it's also one of the world's best hybrid combos right now. With no fully internal combustion engine choices, this Korean subcompact utility vehicle is available in all-electric versions-fully electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Since its launch in 2017, it has consistently delivered on its promises through regular updates.
This masterwork is the trend-setter for smaller hybrid SUVs, with tons of safety features, a stunning infotainment display, sporty aesthetics, and superb handling. Moreover, the Niro hybrid is propelled by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that delivers 139 horsepower and 50 miles per gallon when combined.
6 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid
Ford has a long history of producing outstanding utility vehicles and has established a solid presence in the hybrid segment as well, with the Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid being the ultimate example. Rugged styling, aggressive fronts with sharper headlights mated with LED accents, and an optional yet stunning twin-panel moonroof all add to the American beast's visual beauty and keep it a step ahead.
Aside from its striking design, this three-row big family hauler also amazes with its full off-road prowess and contemporary cabin with modern tech. It also boasts an impressive powertrain with a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with a 35 kW electric motor and a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that produces 318 horsepower and offers up to 28 mpg combined.
5 Honda CR-V Hybrid
The Honda CR-V Hybrid has raised the bar for hybrid SUVs with its efficiency, competitive pricing, driving dynamics, and self-charging ability that develops power while driving. The Japanese SUV has gained a massive appreciation, particularly since its last year update, which included a panoramic glass roof, head-up display, fog lamps, roomier cabin, opulent front grille and bumpers, and an enhanced driver assistance system.
The all-wheel-drive CR-V hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine coupled with an electric motor that together generates 212 horsepower and gets 40 mpg in the city and 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's one of the highest ratings for a compact SUV, and it is 9 miles per gallon better than the gas-only CR-V.
4 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The Toyota RAV4 hybrid continues to be popular for its durability, ease of operation, fuel economy, and maneuverability. Few rivals can only match its unique blend of characteristics, which include athletic cues, affordability, and a hybrid package that generates 219 horsepower and 39 mpg combined.
However, its most noteworthy benefit is that it now comes with an extended 10-year hybrid battery warranty, which begins on the date of first usage or 150,000 miles. Plus, its all-wheel-drive offers four distinct modes to improve traction in various conditions and maximizes driving performance by directing more power to the wheel that requires it the most, which makes off-roading fun.
3 Ford Escape Hybrid
Ford's most recent improvements to the Escape hybrid make it even more appealing than ever before. With sportier aesthetics, superior driving experience, 41 mpg in combined city/highway driving, and a more advanced tech interface, this hot-rodded crossover outclasses its rivals, the CR-V and RAV4 hybrid.
Inside, it boasts a fantastic cockpit design that includes Ford's latest Sync infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a wireless charging pad, and 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. It also offers plenty of legroom in both rows and comes standard with Ford's sophisticated driver-assistance technologies, making it the ideal meld of safety and comfort. Additionally, it comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 221 horsepower, putting it ahead of its competitors in the quest to be the best.
2 Kia Sorento Hybrid
The mid-size Kia Sorento Hybrid possesses numerous winning features that have catapulted the family-centric SUVs to their existing fame. The Korean marque’s 6-seater classic has been completely revamped for 2021, and it now boasts economy, bold styling, powerful turbocharged performance, and an EPA-estimated 37 combined mpg, the best in its category, paired with an equally outstanding 35 mpg highway and 39 mpg city.
Furthermore, the turbo-hybrid drivetrain has a combined range of up to 655 miles and uses regenerative braking to recharge the battery, making long drives fun. In addition, forward collision avoidance aid with pedestrian recognition, blind-spot collision avoidance, lane keep assist, rear occupant warning system with ultrasonic sensors, and smart cruise control are all standard features, ensuring the Sorento Hybrid is the smartest car on the road.
1 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
With its hybrid offering, Toyota has certainly inspired several brands, and the Highlander hybrid is undoubtedly a leading figure in the hybrid SUV space. This class-leading three-row SUV strikes the perfect combination of passenger space, versatility, fuel efficiency, sculpted front fascia, and a fabulous interior with loads of sophisticated amenities.
In addition to its extensive safety tech and 360-degree camera system, this Japanese behemoth touts a hands-free power liftgate, a head-up display, auto LED headlights, a fantastic 11-speaker JBL music system, and a beautiful panoramic sunroof. This formidable machine is powered by a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor that produces a combined output of 243 horsepower and delivers 35/36 miles per gallon combined, easily outperforming the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade.