Hybrid vehicles are vehicles that combine the use of a conventional combustion engine with motors to power the vehicle. The first ever known hybrid vehicle is the System Lohner-Porsche Mixte introduced in 1899, with only 300 units built. 98 years later, Toyota introduced the first mass-produced hybrid car, the Toyota Prius, which completely revolutionized the automotive industry.
Hybrid SUVs are known for offering a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and amenities, making them top choices in the automotive industry. What is the best hybrid SUV? The top hybrid SUV models offer a good combination of cutting-edge technology, spacious and lush interiors, fuel efficiency, and ruggedness.
There is a good range of these SUVs, from luxury brands to affordable options, with each one catering to diverse needs and tastes, creating diverse choices for many.
Here, we focus on the top 5 hybrid SUVs for 2024, exhibiting their unique features and what makes them lead in the market.
2024 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid
Overview
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a non-plug-in (HEV) and plug-in (PHEV) with great efficiency, performance, and practicality. Their power output is 219 hp and 302 hp respectively. These hybrid models offer a versatile driving experience suitable for urban commutes and off-roading adventures. Its spacious interior, passive and active safety features, and outstanding fuel efficiency make it a go-to vehicle among families and environmentally-conscious drivers.
2025 Honda Vezel Hybrid with the HuNT package. The Honda Vezel Hybrid is a third-generation battery electric HR-V sold in Europe as the Honda e:Ny1. Read More ≫
What’s New for 2025
Details regarding the 2025 RAV4 haven’t been revealed yet, but as is the norm, we expect some upgrades in technology, comfort, and performance. Potential upgrades might include updated infotainment systems, an enhanced driver-assistance package, minor design tweaks, and upgrades on security to keep pace with the pack in the very competitive SUV market.
Price Range
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is available in seven unique trims with competitive prices designed to appeal to a broad audience, with the base LE model starting at US$31,725 MSRP. This price gradually increases depending on trim and available features, with the top-spec Limited model at US$40,030 MSRP. This pricing model ensures the RAV4 Hybrid prices are not prohibitive and the available features are for those seeking additional luxury and technology.
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Engine & Performance
The RAV4 Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 hp (HEV) or 302 hp (PHEV). The standard Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) supplies enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions when needed. The hybrid system guarantees smooth acceleration and a responsive driving experience, making it the perfect car on all terrains.
How long does the RAV4 hybrid battery last? The electric-only range of the RAV4 Hybrid (Prime) is 62.7 kilometers (42 miles).
Fuel Economy (Rav4 Hybrid)
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One of the exceptional features of the 2024 RAV4 Hybrid is its impressive fuel economy. Its average EPA-estimated fuel consumption (Prime PHEV) is 40 km/L (94 mpg) combined and for the HEV it’s 16.2 km/L (38 mpg). This equates to significant savings at the pump compared to conventional fuel-powered SUVs. This excellent fuel efficiency makes the RAV4 Hybrid an enticing option for frugal and eco-conscious buyers.
Interior, Comfort, and Storage
The interior of the 2024 RAV4 Hybrid is spacious, comfortable, and practical. All occupants are accorded ample space, with a well-thought-out interior layout offering plenty of storage compartments and a large cargo area that can be extended by folding flat the rear seats. Although some front-seat occupants may need extra cushioning on long drives, otherwise ride quality is smooth, and the cabin is tranquil.
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Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 RAV4 Hybrid is a modern 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, onboard Wi-Fi, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Higher trims offer a larger 10.5-inch display an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, navigation, and wireless charging.
The instrument cluster features a 7.0-inch digital display as standard with a 12.3-inch on the higher trims. Both these systems are user-friendly and intuitive, with quick response times.
Safety Features
The 2024 RAV4 Hybrid, comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.5 as standard. This suite of advanced active safety features includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and the addition of passive safety technologies and sturdy construction, all collectively making the car safer.
2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Overview
The Honda CR-V Hybrid stands out in the highly competitive compact crossover category, known for its good blend of fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and practicality. The 2024/2025 models continue to build on this reputation with modern interior and exterior styling, a spacious cabin, and an array of standard safety features. Its hybrid powerplant provides a smooth and efficient driving experience, making it a popular choice for those who want to save a dime at the pump and the eco-conscious.
What’s New for 2025
For the 2025 model year, the CR-V Hybrid received minor upgrades that enhance its overall appeal. These include slight exterior styling tweaks, updated infotainment options, and prospectively new safety features. Although its core traits remain consistent, these incremental improvements help maintain the CR-V hybrid competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
Price Range
The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid starts at around US$33,750, with higher trims reaching up to $40,450 or more depending on the features and packages. This pricing structure ensures that the CR-V Hybrid prices remain competitive and affordable to most buyers, offering various packages to suit different needs and budgets.
Engine & Performance
The 2024 and 2025 CR-V Hybrid models are fitted with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 204 hp. The hybrid system provides an exhilarating and responsive driving experience, with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel-drive available for extra traction and stability.
Fuel Economy (CR-V Hybrid)
The CR-V Hybrid boasts impressive fuel economy, with the 2024 FWD model boasting an average EPA-rated consumption of 17 km/L (40 mpg) combined while the AWD model achieves 15.7 km/L (37 mpg). These efficiency levels have an edge over traditional fuel-only vehicles, making the CR-V Hybrid a frugal option for daily commutes and long-distance travel.
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Interior, Comfort, and Storage
The CR-V Hybrids’ cabin is spacious and well-appointed, finished with high-quality materials thoughtfully laid out. It’s spacious with every occupant treated with ample space and its cargo area is generous too, it can handle 11 carry-on bags with rear seats in place and 29 with the seats folded flat. Overall the seats are comfortable, a select few may feel like the front seats need extra cushioning to improve their supportiveness on longer drives.
Infotainment and Connectivity
As standard, the 2024 and 2025 CR-V Hybrid models have a modern 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer a larger 9.0-inch display with wireless charging, navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a premium audio system. The system is user-friendly and offers seamless smartphone integration.
Safety Features
The CR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing Suite, an intelligent suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies with features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning, and forward collision warning with automated emergency braking. The top-spec model adds blind-spot monitoring. All these features help improve the car and other road user’s safety and enhance driver confidence.
It’s Competitors
There’s plenty of competition for the Honda CR-V Hybrid in its category with the likes of Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. Although each car has unique strengths, the CR-V Hybrid out-competes them for its spacious interior. However, the RAV4 Hybrid has slightly better fuel efficiency, underscoring the competitive nature of this category.
Which is better, the Honda CR-V Hybrid or the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?
The two cars go neck in neck but there are areas that each has an edge over the other. The interior and reliability of the CR-V give it an edge over the RAV4, as its cabin/cargo area is spacious and finished with high-quality materials with more standard and available interior amenities, and its J. D. Power predicted reliability score is 80 out of 100 compared to 70 for the RAV4 while the RAV4 has an edge over the CR-V on the powerplant, as the RAV4’s 219 hp (HEV) and 302 hp (PHEV) giving it some good acceleration as it sends power to all four wheels via a continuously variable as standard compared to the CR-V’s 204 hp that sends power to the front wheels as standard, also the RAV4 is more efficient. With the PHEV model having a combined consumption of 40 km/L (94 mpg) and 16.2 km/L (38 mpg) in gas-hybrid (HEV) mode while the CR-V has an average EPA-rated consumption of 17 km/L (40 mpg) combined for the FWD model while the AWD model achieves 15.7 km/L (37 mpg).
2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid
Overview
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is a versatile, efficient, and distinctly designed compact SUV with a generous list of features, modern styling, and advanced hybrid technology. Known for its expansive interior and rugged powertrain, the Outlander PHEV is a captivating option for a practical and eco-friendly SUV.
The 2024 Outlander is a testament to Mitsubishi’s tradition of building reliable and innovative vehicles, featuring enhanced driving dynamics and modern technology.
What’s New for 2025
For the 2025 model, the Outlander PHEV is expected to receive minor tweaks to keep it abreast with the competition. Updates might include new exterior color options, new interior materials, and improvements to its infotainment system. Additionally, any improvements to its battery technology could offer extended electric-only dynamics and improve fuel efficiency. The 2025 model will expectedly continue to refine an already successful formula of the 2024 model.
Price Range
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has an MSRP starting price of US$40,345 for the base ES model, with eight trims to choose from and some additional options the price gets to US$52,000 for the top-spec SEL Platinum edition. This pricing model and the advanced features and capabilities place the Outlander PHEV in the premium hybrid SUV band. With all this, the Outlander remains competitive in the hybrid SUV market as it has managed to strike a good balance between cost and a comprehensive feature set.
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Engine & Performance
The 2024 Outlander PHEV is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with two electric motors. This combination produces a total output power of 248 hp, providing a thrilling and responsive driving experience. Its Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system guarantees extra traction and stability when needed, making the car suitable for use in various driving conditions. The hybrid powertrain offers efficient urban drives and capable highway performance.
Fuel Economy (Outlander Hybrid)
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The 2024 Outlander PHEV offers an impressive fuel economy of 27 km/L (64 MPGe) thanks to its advanced hybrid system. Its electric-only range is 61 km (38 miles) and its combined range is 676 km (420 miles). Although these figures may vary, the Outlander’s efficiency is generally excellent for city and highway driving. For short trips around town or within the neighborhood, its electric-only mode can be utilized to enhance its eco-friendliness and reduce overall fuel consumption.
Interior, Comfort, and Storage
The interior of the 2024 Outlander PHEV has a nice cabin finished in high-quality and modern materials. Its seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample space although space on the third row is limited for adults. The distribution of cubby holds is great on all three rows and the cargo area is versatile. The rear seats can be folded flat to increase cargo capacity.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 Outlander PHEV comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims come with a 9.0-inch touchscreen with additional features such as navigation, wireless charging, and a nine-speaker BOSE stereo for an enjoyable driving experience.
Safety Features
Safety-wise, the 2024 Outlander PHEV features a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking. These technologies help mitigate safety issues by protecting all road users and enhancing driver confidence.
It’s Competitors
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is not short of competitors in the midsize hybrid SUVs with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, and Honda CR-V Hybrid. Although each vehicle has unique strengths, the Outlander PHEV stands out for its premium finishing, S-AWD all-wheel-drive capabilities, spacious interior, and advanced hybrid system. Its competitors may have a slight advantage in fuel efficiency and tech features, but the Outlander PHEV’s overall package gives it an edge in the hybrid SUV market.
2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Overview
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a compact SUV with a good combination of style, efficiency, and modern technology. With its sleek styling, spacious interior, and HEV and PHEV hybrid powertrains, the Sportage Hybrid offers serious competition in the compact Hybrid SUV category. In addition, it provides a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and a packed package of standard and optional features.
What’s New for 2025
For 2025, the Kia Sportage Hybrid will receive minor upgrades to boast its appeal. Expected updates include additional exterior colors, interior upgrades, and refined technological features. These updates will help to maintain the Sportage Hybrid’s competitive edge in the rapidly evolving SUV category. Not much change is expected in the core elements of its hybrid powertrain’s overall design, guaranteeing consistency, reliability, and efficiency.
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Price Range
How much is a Kia Sportage Hybrid?
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid has an MSRP starting at around US$29,590 for the base LX FWD model, and the higher you climb on trim levels with additional options the prices increase as well. The top-spec X-Line Prestige PHEV trim with more premium and tech features is sold at US$45,400. This pricing model positions the Sportage Hybrid as an affordable but well-equipped option in the hybrid SUV category.
Engine & Performance
The 2024 Sportage Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, with a combined 226 hp for the HEV and 261 hp for the PHEV thanks to a bigger motor and battery pack. This hybrid powertrain offers quick acceleration and smooth performance, making it suitable for urban and extra-urban use. Models with the active all-wheel-drive system with a center-locking differential guarantee extra traction and stability when needed.
Fuel Economy (Sportage Hybrid)
The 2024 Sportage Hybrid delivers impressive fuel economy, making it an efficient choice for eco-conscious drivers. Their combined average consumption is 18 km/L (43 mpg) and 15 km/L (35.5 mpg) for the HEV and PHEV respectively.
The hybrid system extends the driving range and reduces fuel consumption, contributing to lower emissions and overall cost savings.
How far can the Sportage go on electric-only? The PHEV model can travel 54 km (34 miles) in electric-only mode.
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Interior, Comfort, and Storage
The 2024 Sportage Hybrid has a comfortable and practical interior with its occupants treated with ample space, supportive and comfortable seats, and premium materials throughout. Standard interior features include dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.
The rear seats can be folded flat to extend the cargo area plus a dual floor option that further adds versatility to the cargo area.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 Sportage Hybrid has an 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an audio system as standard. Higher trims come with a 12.3-inch display with navigation, extra features include wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Harman Kardon audio unit.
Safety Features
Safety-wise, the 2024 Sportage Hybrid has an array of standard and optional safety features. These include forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring monitoring is reserved for the top-spec models.
With this range of passive and active safety features occupants are guaranteed safety and the driver’s confidence is enhanced.
It’s Competitors
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid competes with other hybrid SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and Ford Escape Hybrid. While each model offers unique characteristics and strengths, the Sportage Hybrid out-competes them with its modern design, robust powertrain, and comprehensive feature set. Its competitive pricing and excellent fuel economy further enhance its appeal in the crowded hybrid SUV market.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Overview
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (HEV and PHEV) is a stylish and efficient compact SUV that combines modern design with advanced hybrid technology. Known for its elegant appearance, spacious and premium interior, a tranquil and composed ride, a comprehensive list of standard safety and tech features, impressive fuel efficiency, and standard all-wheel-drive, the Tucson Hybrid is popular among environmentally conscious buyers seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
What’s New for 2025
For 2025, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid comes with several minor updates to maintain its competitive edge. The angular and eloquent exterior styling received minor tweaks, upgraded interior materials for a more premium feel, and an updated infotainment system with better connectivity. These changes seek to strengthen the car’s overall drivability and maintain the Tucson Hybrid’s appeal in a competitive market segment.
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Price Range
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is priced competitively within the compact hybrid SUV segment. The base Blue model starts at US$32,525 MSRP, offering a good balance of affordability and premium features. Higher trims come with additional technologies and premium features, the top-of-the-line N-Line trim is US$36,655 MSRP. This pricing model guarantees that the Tucson Hybrid provides value across the range.
Engine & Performance
The Tucson Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Their combined output power is 231 hp and 258 hp for the HEV and PHEV respectively. These hybrid setups deliver smooth acceleration and responsive performance, making them suitable for urban and highway cruises.
These hybrid systems are efficient and have low emissions.
How does the Hyundai Tucson hybrid work? The TUCSON PHEV seamlessly switches operation between its petrol engine and electric motor depending on driving conditions. Its regenerative braking system charges the battery using the electric motor converting kinetic energy to electric energy stored in a battery. The saved energy in the battery powers the electric motor while driving uphill or at low speed.
Fuel Economy (Tucson Hybrid)
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid boasts impressive fuel economy, with HEV having an average combined efficiency of 13 km/L (38 mpg) while the PHEV is rated at 128 km (80 MPGe) and 53 km (33 miles) of electric-only drive. These figures make the Tucson Hybrid a popular option for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and fuel costs.
Interior, Comfort, and Storage
Hyundai is known for its proficiency in creating modern and high-quality interiors at reasonable prices, and the 2025 Tucson is just that. Its uncluttered cabin with dark textures and bright themes is spacious with ample headroom and legroom, particularly in the rear seats, and a generous cargo area with 1095 liters enough to accommodate nine carry-on bags.
The seats are comfortable and supportive with convenient features to enhance the driving experience.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2025 Tucson Hybrid features an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display, enhanced connectivity options, and an improved user interface. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Higher trims offer additional tech, such as wireless charging and advanced navigation systems, ensuring a connected and enjoyable drive.
Safety Features
Safety-wise, the Tucson Hybrid, comes with a comprehensive suite of passive and active safety features. These include forward collision warning, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work together to mitigate threats for the safety of all road users and driver confidence.
It’s Competitors
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid competes with several other compact hybrid SUVs, including the Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Ford Escape Hybrid. Each competitor has its strengths, but the Tucson Hybrid stands out with its stylish design, spacious interior, and competitive pricing. It is indeed a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market, appealing to many admirers.
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Final Verdict for Different Life Styles
- Urban Driving
The 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid is perfect for daily urban driving. It’s smooth, easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and frugal. Its advanced driver assistance technologies make city driving safer and less stressful. - Off-road Adventures
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is befitting for off-road adventures. With all-wheel-drive as standard, it enhances its capabilities to tackle the beaten path. The RAV4 Hybrid’s robust design and superior ground clearance make it suitable for tackling rugged terrains. - Camping Trips
For camping trips, the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid is the perfect companion. It offers a large cargo area an optional third-row seat, and a portable power source. These features make the Outlander a versatile option and a go-to vehicle for the outdoors. - Family Use
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a typical family SUV. It’s spacious and comfortable, with advanced safety features to keep the family safe. Its user-friendly infotainment system and high-quality materials make it a perfect car for family use. - All-around Versatility
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a great all-around compact hybrid SUV. It provides satisfactory fuel efficiency, a comfortable interior, and a good balance of safety and tech features. With these qualities, the Sportage Hybrid emerges as a perfect all-around hybrid SUV for various needs.
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Writer’s Perspective
In recent years more and more people have opted to buy a car with good handling and fuel efficiency, which leads them to a compact SUV as the ideal choice.
This segment is crowded and the emergence of hybrid models has made it even worse. Since compact hybrid models have better reviews and specs, especially their small carbon footprint, superior acceleration, and higher output power, more people crave them with the only hindrance being their high price.
But if your pockets are deep enough, whichever one of these cars that we have reviewed here will be a great choice, but remember to consider what each one is better at compared to the other.
I am a Telecom & ICT specialist with a career spanning over 15 years in the demanding Tanzanian telecom industry.
I am also an avid DIYer with a good knack for everything technical and a wealth of vocational skills, with automotive being the top, and here I am writing about cars.
In 2017 a guy created a WhatsApp group called MyCar for the sole purpose of members helping each other with all matters regarding cars. I joined this group in 2018, and with my enormous wealth of knowledge regarding cars, and my readiness to share the knowledge with others, I became a top contributor, and that didn’t go unnoticed, as one member thought I was a potential writer and had contacts with Be Forward Japan who were looking for writers then. Fast forward to January 2020, I began writing for the Be Forward blog with 2024 being my fourth year.
As far as I can remember, I love cars, and growing up in the farming and tourist city of Arusha Tanzania in the ’80s and ’90s, I ended up being drawn to the Ranger Rover Classic for leisure and Land Cruiser 70 pickup as a workhorse. These were tough cars then, cars that could take you anywhere any time no matter the weather.
