Today's Best Compact Hybrids
If you’re looking to save big on fuel but aren’t yet ready to move to an electric or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, a compact hybrid might be for you. While hybrid technology helps improve the efficiency of every kind of vehicle, overall efficiency is affected by frontal area and weight. That means that hybrid SUVs, vans, and trucks are still far less efficient than hybrid cars.
Fortunately, you don’t have to accept many compromises in a compact hybrid. They still give you excellent features, safety and comfort. And almost all of the vehicles on our list get more than 50 MPG in the city.
Toyota Prius: Still the Hybrid Benchmark?
Introduced in 2000, the Prius is one of the original hybrids, and has always been a leader in fuel economy and low running costs. Careful aerodynamic sculpting of its teardrop-shaped body and the relentless efforts of Toyota’s R&D department mean the Prius continues to set the template for every hybrid: teardrop shape, hatchback body, compact drivetrain, and exceptional economy. A small gasoline engine is augmented by an electric motor to produce 194 hp – and because it is so light, the Prius feels eager and responsive, while delivering a stunning combined EPA MPG rating.
We also like the Prius’ interior, which is stylish, solid, and versatile thanks to its large hatchback and folding rear seats. There’s plenty of room inside, and tech features include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, all operated through a large central screen. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 features include active cruise control, lane assist, automatic braking, and pedestrian detection. Need even more capability or economy? All-wheel drive and plug-in hybrid versions of the Prius are also available.
- Starting MSRP: $28,350
- EPA estimated MPG City/Highway: 57/56
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Efficiency Meets Tech
Hyundai’s compact Elantra is one of the best-selling cars in the U.S., thanks to its combination of interior space, features, and edgy styling. In gasoline form, it is already a very efficient performer, but the Elantra Hybrid bumps this up to an impressive 58 MPG on the highway, the best of any hybrid car in the U.S. (it’s beaten in the city by the venerable Prius). Elantra Hybrid’s 1.6-liter direct-injection gasoline engine is augmented with a 32-kW battery and electric motor.
Expert Tip: If city MPG is your priority, lean towards the Prius. For highway commuters, the Elantra Hybrid takes the crown with best-in-class highway mileage.
The rest of the package is also very strong. The interior is huge, at 99.4-cu.ft., and has strong tech features. There’s a large central touchscreen, available digital instrument cluster, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard. Elantra also has a wide range of safety systems including forward collision assist with pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot assist, and more are all standard. Additional reassurance comes from a 10-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty and complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first three years.
- Starting MSRP: $25,450
- EPA estimated MPG City/Highway: 51/58
Toyota Corolla Hybrid : A Proven Bestseller, Electrified
Toyota’s Corolla has an enviable position as the best-selling vehicle in the history of the car industry. It’s been so popular for so long because it combines space, efficiency, and rugged reliability in an inexpensive package. The latest version of the Corolla is now available in hybrid form, introducing technology from the well-known Prius into a more conventional sedan shape. The Corolla Hybrid’s lithium-ion battery and electric motor augment the 1.8-liter four-cylinder to produce 139 horsepower. The EPA rates it at 52 combined MPG.
Available only as a sedan and not as a hatchback, the Corolla Hybrid shares its other attributes with the rest of the Corolla range, including a roomy interior, stylish design, and a sporty driving feel. Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 gives you active cruise control, lane assist, automatic braking, pedestrian detection, and more. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa are also standard.
- Starting MSRP: $23,825
- EPA estimated MPG City/Highway: 53/46
Mercedes-Benz CLA: Luxury and Efficiency Combined
Arriving late in 2025 as a 2026 model, the new Mercedes CLA is actually available as a full EV or a hybrid. It offers more space than before, more refinement, more comfort, more tech, and more efficiency than the model it replaces and the company says it’s the most intelligent Mercedes to date. Careful sculpting also makes the compact CLA one of the most aerodynamic cars available at any price.
The CLA is so new that the EPA hasn’t released MPG figures yet, but Mercedes promises it will be an efficiency champion in both EV and hybrid forms. The hybrid features 48-volt tech and an EV motor integrated into its transmission, and will be available with two-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive. In the city, CLA hybrid models can drive in all-electric mode, and electric coasting is possible at speeds of up to 60 mph.
The CLA also has a gorgeous, high-tech interior with a large digital instrument cluster and new MB.OS operating system. As you would expect from Mercedes, standard safety features are comprehensive, including active brake assist, blind spot assist, pre-collision braking, and Pre-Safe, which tensions the seatbelts and can even move the front seats into a safer position if a collision is imminent.
- Starting MSRP: $TBA
- EPA estimated MPG City/Highway: TBA/TBA
Which Compact Hybrid Is Right for You?
Compact hybrids continue to offer one of the smartest and most practical routes toward lower fuel costs and reduced emissions, without making the jump to a full electric vehicle. Models like the Toyota Prius still lead with exceptional city MPG, comfort, and reliability. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid shines on highways and offers impressive tech and safety features. The legendary Corolla Hybrid delivers unbeatable value, blending efficiency with everyday usability. And for those craving luxury, refinement, and cutting-edge technology, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz CLA Hybrid promises to set a new standard in the class.
Ultimately, your perfect compact hybrid will depend on your priorities, whether it's maximum fuel efficiency, interior features, or driving style. One thing’s certain: choosing a hybrid compact car means saving money at the pump without compromising on comfort or performance.
Explore More About Hybrids
- Popular Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles
Discover some of the top plug-in hybrids on the market today, featuring outstanding fuel efficiency and versatile performance. - Hybrid Car Overview: What You Need to Know
Curious about how hybrid technology works? Explore the basics and see why hybrids might be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. - Top Benefits of Driving a Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Learn about the advantages of hybrid electric vehicles, from fuel savings to reduced environmental impact.
