What Is The Best Hybrid SUV?
SUVs used to be all about compromise. If you wanted their outdoorsy looks and high seating position, you had to make sacrifices, because SUVs drove like trucks, consumed more fuel, and offered less technology than cars. That’s no longer the case: most modern SUVs are built on car platforms, and therefore offer a comparable driving experience, the same levels of technology, and much better fuel economy. All while giving you the extra space, ride height, and visibility that has made SUVs so popular with American families.
Just like hybrid technology is now mainstream in all passenger vehicles, many SUVs available to U.S. buyers also feature hybrid drivetrains to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Adding hybrid tech can also add an element of all-wheel drive security in some models.
Below, you’ll find five of our favorite new hybrid-powered SUVs, from both mainstream and luxury brands.
Best Compact Hybrid SUV: Kia Sportage Hybrid
Redesigned for the 2026 model year, the Kia Sportage is one of the best-looking, and most versatile, compact SUVs on the market. The 2026 adds more sophistication to the Sportage, with new design and tech elements to improve the driving experience and customer convenience.
The Sportage Hybrid has a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine, coupled with a revised electric motor. Power output is up 4 hp from before, with a total of 231 hp, and there’s a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. Towing capacity is slightly lower for the hybrid, but is still 2,000 lb. Fuel economy tops 40 mpg in both city and highway, and there’s also a plug-in hybrid and conventional gas model available.
Inside, the interior has been upgraded with new trim that creates the feeling, says Kia, of a “premium living space.” That living space is packed with new tech and connectivity features for driver and passengers alike.
- Highlights: Stylish redesign, improved interior tech, 231 hp hybrid system.
- Ideal For: Urban commuters and small families needing flexibility, affordability, and standout fuel efficiency.
- Starting MSRP: $28,790
- EPA Estimated MPG: City 42 / Highway 44
Best Midsize Hybrid SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe
In the world of automotive redesigns, just about the only thing that didn’t change with the latest generation Hyundai Santa Fe was its name. Not only did it grow substantially for its extensive redesign in 2024, it sprouted a standard third row of seats, a much boxier, yet more modern look, and a totally redone interior. Indeed, the Santa Fe pushes the size boundaries a “compact” SUV, being a healthy 10 inches longer than a Toyota RAV4.
The hybrid’s net 231 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque make it feel smoothly responsive. The powertrain provides more than enough oomph for regular driving, though a fully-loaded road trip may tax the 1.6-litre four up steep hills. While there isn’t currently a plug-in hybrid option, the regular hybrid Santa Fe adds a dose of quiet and efficiency for a small price premium compared to the gasoline model.
- Highlights: Roomy new three-row interior, bold styling, responsive hybrid power.
- Ideal For: Active families desiring more passenger space, flexible cargo options, and a balanced performance.
- Starting MSRP: $37,800
- EPA Estimated MPG: City 36 / Highway 35
Best Large Hybrid SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
If your mainstream SUV needs are big needs, Toyota’s larger Highlander Hybrid is your best choice. With an extra-long wheelbase, it has three rows of comfortable seating, along with a very large, very versatile cargo area. Luxury features include three-zone automatic climate control, LED lighting, available wireless phone charging, available quilted synthetic suede-and-leather trim, an awesome audio system, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system with CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa built-in. Five USB ports help make sure all your passengers stay connected and comfortable.
Available with either front- or all-wheel drive, the Highlander Hybrid is a great road trip vehicle. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, backed with electric motors, produces 243 system horsepower, more than enough for smooth, swift acceleration and comfortable cruising. Interior refinement is excellent, and family-friendly safety features abound thanks to the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system.
- Highlights: Comfortable three-row seating, generous cargo space, reliable hybrid drivetrain.
- Ideal For: Big families, long road trips, and those prioritizing comfort, safety, and fuel economy in a spacious SUV.
- Starting MSRP: $46,320
- EPA Estimated MPG: City 35 / Highway 35
Best Hybrid Luxury SUV: Lexus RX350h
The Lexus RX350h is the latest version of one of the pioneering luxury hybrid vehicles – so it’s no surprise it’s such an all-round accomplished package. Starting at just over $50,000 with all-wheel drive, the RX350h has a 2.5-liter inline-four gas engine as well as an electrically-powered rear axle to produce 246 hp – providing standard all-wheel drive and great all-weather stability and traction. Able to drive short distances on electric power alone, the RX350h’s driving experience is smooth and silent, while still delivering impressive city and highway fuel economy.
The best part of the RX350h is its interior, which has beautiful finishes, easy-to-use electronics, with a large central screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa built-in, as well as a fantastic Mark Levinson sound system. Comprehensive safety features include the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane assist, road sign recognition, radar cruise control, and more.
- Highlights: Premium comfort, seamless hybrid performance, upscale technology.
- Ideal For: Luxury SUV buyers who seek quiet refinement, elegant styling, and fuel-saving hybrid performance.
- Starting MSRP: $52,775
- EPA Estimated MPG: City 37 / Highway 34
Best Large Hybrid Luxury SUV: Volvo XC90 Mild Hybrid
In case you haven’t noticed, Volvo is pushing its environmental credentials as hard as its safety credentials these days. Every vehicle in its diverse lineup has hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or full-electric power. We love Volvo’s distinctive styling and its gorgeous, high-end interiors – and the XC90 has one of the best cabins available at any price. The materials are beautiful, with a selection of trim materials that includes matte-finish wood, textured leather, brushed aluminum, and jewel-like details such as an available crystal gearshift. All this, along with a very easy-to-use vertical touchscreen and digital instrument cluster powered by Google – which seamlessly integrate maps, a virtual assistant, Google Play, and more.
Recently the recipient of a major refresh, the XC90 is a spacious three-row SUV that is actually great to drive as well. Its powertrain includes a turbocharged four-cylinder engine as well as a 48-volt battery that recovers energy produced while braking, giving 247 hp in the B5 version; step up to the B6 and a supercharger is added for 295 hp, or the T8 with 455 hp and plug-in hybrid capability. All-wheel drive is standard, providing safety and security in all driving conditions. The XC90 is also packed with safety gear, including blind spot monitoring, steering assist, pre-collision warning and braking, and even rear cross-traffic alert and braking.
- Highlights: Elegant Scandinavian interior, advanced safety suite, powerful hybrid options.
- Ideal For: Families and luxury-seekers prioritizing safety, style, and environmental responsibility without sacrificing power or driving enjoyment.
- Starting MSRP: $58,695
- EPA Estimated MPG: City 22 / Highway 27
Wrapping Up: Choosing the Best Hybrid SUV for You
Hybrid SUVs are now mainstream for good reason, they blend comfort, practicality, and eco-friendly driving into one seamless package. Whether you're looking for compact affordability, midsize versatility, or luxurious refinement, these standout hybrid SUVs represent the best choices available today.
Want to compare these Hybrid SUVs side by side?
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