The 26 Best Plug-In Hybrid SUVs of 2023-2024, Ranked By Fuel Economy

Over the last few years, the rising cost of fuel has become a burden for many road users. Manufacturers are combating this by introducing more efficient vehicle options with electrification technology. Plug-in hybrid models are currently the ideal solution as they achieve better fuel efficiency than standard gasoline-electric hybrid models.

Fully electric models are more efficient, but this segment is currently faced with the challenge of range anxiety, a lack of consumer familiarity, high prices, and minimal charging infrastructure. PHEVs essentially offer the best of both worlds, making them a perfect option to consider if you want the best fuel efficiency returns without compromising performance.

SUVs are equally popular across the world, because of their increased interior packaging, generally better ride quality, and more comprehensive safety equipment. Modern crossovers make better PHEVs as they offer more structural space to accommodate the bulky and complex electrical systems, including a battery, motor, and all the necessary wiring.

Modern crossovers and SUVs are designed to offer sharper and more precise handling characteristics, making them better suited for dense urban environments without compromising their long-distance traveling abilities. PHEV crossovers are in abundance in the new car market, so we’ve taken the time to look at the figures and showcase the 25 best options, based on the EPA-estimated fuel consumption figures.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, the EPA, including Car and Driver, AutoExpress, Edmunds, and MotorTrend. The cars on this list are ranked from worst to best EPA-estimate combined MPGe figures.

26 BMW XM

Combined Estimated Consumption: 46 MPGe

The BMW XM is not a car you should be considering for efficiency, but it achieves good fuel returns nonetheless. Under the hood sits the brand’s accomplished twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8, but there is an electric motor located in the eight-speed transmission to drastically reduce consumption. BMW made the bold decision to make its M-division-specific model an SUV with questionable visual cues, but no one can deny its impressive performance achievements.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from BMW)

A 25.7 kWh battery pack grants the BMW XM an EPA-estimated 31 miles of electric range and a 46 MPGe figure on the combined cycle. The BMW M-specific crossover, starting at $159,000, justifies its price with impressive performance levels, as some tests reveal acceleration times as low as 3.4 seconds. The XM is one of the most niche products to come from the brand, but a great starting point for its electrified performance division.

Pros

• Neck-bending performance abilities
• Great EV range abilities
• Luxurious cabin setting

Cons

• Not the best looking crossover
• Ride can be too firm
• High curb weight is evident from the driver’s seat

25 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid

Combined Estimated Consumption: 46 MPGe

The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid is a great option to consider if you want to enjoy the brand’s world-class handling characteristics in a comfortable family SUV setting. A 25.9 kWh battery supports the PHEV system with 17 miles of range and a 46 MPGe combined consumption estimate. The base Cayenne E-Hybrid is a jack of all trades and can be comfortably and economically used as a daily driver.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Porsche)

The base E-Hybrid is not the most aspirational model, but it doesn’t compromise on performance capabilities, with a 4.6-second 0-60 MPH sprint time. Upgrading to the flagship V-8 Turbo S E-Hybrid will only see a nominal combined fuel consumption dip to 42 MPGe. The base E-Hybrid is a hidden gem in the Porsche line-up and will offer a more than satisfactory ownership experience.

Pros

• Sports car-like handling characteristics
• Great engine performance
• Good overall build quality

Cons

• Not the best laid-out cockpit
• Not enough standard features to justify the price
• Firm ride

24 Bentley Bentayga PHEV

Combined Estimated Consumption: 47 MPGe

The Bentley Bentayga PHEV is easily the most luxurious car to feature on this list. It may not be the most efficient, but it still offers great economy returns with a combined 47 MPGe. Coincidentally, it makes use of the same drivetrain as the Cayenne, but with less power and torque. The Bentayga sits on the VW group’s MLB Evo platform, so it shares a lot of mechanical components with the Porsche Cayenne, but Bentley’s tailors ensure that all hand-crafted external features are unique and more upmarket.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Bentley)

The smaller 17.3 kWh battery means that it will only cover 20 miles in full electric mode, but the system works best when it supports the ICE. The Bentayga PHEV range starts at $200,025, making it one of the less accessible cars showcased here. You can justify this price by considering the level of exclusivity and luxury. Bentley also offers the experience of creating a completely bespoke specification via its Mulliner division.

Pros

• Unrivaled luxury
• Impressive performance
• Plush ride

Cons

• Very expensive for a VW-based product
• Lacks the V-8’s charisma
• Generic SUV styling

23 Jeep Wrangler 4xe

Combined Estimated Consumption: 49 MPGe

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the only die-hard off-roader mentioned in this list. It is a unique proposition, because it features a 17.3 kWh battery pack that grants it 21 miles of electric range. It merges this with a compact powertrain, mated to a proper 4×4 transfer case, which is a unique configuration in the current PHEV SUV landscape. The 4xe also has access to all of Jeep and Mopar’s extensive accessories catalog, making it a truly uncompromising Wrangler that you can specify for all of your adventuring needs.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Jeep)

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is also the only PHEV with solid front and rear axles, making it the best option for overlanders who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Its combined power output means that it will be just as capable, if not more, than the standard V-6 drivetrain. FCA’s IPMSM and integrated transmission traction motor mean that you have instant access to torque at the press of the throttle, further improving performance over steep inclines.

Pros

• The best off-roading PHEV currently available
• You can still remove the roof and doors
• Lots of available accessories

Cons

• Big premium over the regular Wrangler
• Bad overall NVH levels
• Unrefined steering on tarmac.

22 Range Rover P550e

Combined Claimed Consumption: 50 MPGe

The all-new Range Rover P550e is the perfect example of how you can get the best of both luxury and sustainable worlds. The P550e is a new drivetrain option to the brand that features a relatively large 38.2 kWh battery, with a claimed electric range of 51 miles. Many critics were skeptical when the JLR group said it would abandon the ICE by 2025, but the P550e is proof that the British marque is following through on its mission.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Range Rover)

The Range Rover P550e may look like a stereotypical soccer mom’s car, but it features most of Land Rover’s off-roading goodies, meaning you can do some proper adventuring in it with the added benefit of a high-torque electric motor. There’s also enough space to comfortably seat seven people, including the driver, with some room to spare for luggage and equipment.

Prices start at $141,100 MSRP because it is only available in Autobiography trim. Range Rover definitely missed the mark by not offering this powertrain on lower-trim models.

Pros

• Chic exterior design
• Plush cabin experience
• Smooth PHEV powertrain

Cons

• No lower-level trims for the PHEV
• Cramped third-row seating
• Can get extremely expensive with options

21 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

Combined Estimated Consumption: 56 MPGe

The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe caters to those who want to enjoy the brand’s impressive off-roading technology, but without the bad on-road comfort and performance. It features the exact same drivetrain as the aforementioned Wrangler, but without the body-on-frame construction.

The EPA estimates a 56 MPGe combined consumption figure and a 26-mile range estimate from the 17.3 kWh battery pack. The 4xe offers fantastic value, with prices starting at $59,865. The range caters to varying consumer needs with trims suited for off-roading and lifestyle-minded urban users.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Jeep)

All variations produce the same 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet outputs, which results in a 6.0-second 0-60 MPH time. Tests reveal this to be somewhat conservative, as 5.3 seconds is easily achievable in the right conditions. This isn’t the most powerful Grand Cherokee powertrain, but given the impressive fuel savings, it’s not much of a compromise. As standard, the model tows 3,500 pounds, but you can increase this to 6,000 pounds via the Trailering Package.

Pros

• Good infotainment system
• High level of standard safety features
• Amazing off-roading capability

Cons

• Significantly more expensive than non-PHEV trims
• Struggles in slow-moving traffic
• Gets heavy on fuel once the battery is depleted

20 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring

Combined Estimated Consumption: 56 MPGe

The Aviator is essentially an upmarket Ford Explorer, but its biggest advantage is the PHEV system, which cannot be had on the Blue Oval’s option here in the U.S. A twin-turbo V-6 and an electric motor with a supplementary 13.6 kWh battery power the sleek SUV. The capacity may be small, but it covers a respectable 21 miles on a single charge. The SUV returns an impressive 56 MPGe on the combined cycle.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Lincoln)

For the time being, Lincoln has paused this specification in anticipation of the mid-cycle facelift set for introduction in the 2025 model year. Some dealerships still list units on the floor, but you can expect to pay north of $90,000, because the PHEV trim is a flagship option for the range. Let’s hope the brand makes this system more accessible when it updates the generation.

Pros

• Smooth chassis
• Great in-car luxury
• Generous standard features

Cons

• The PHEV system needs to be refined
• Feels heavy around the corners
• Awkward access to the third row

19 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Combined Claimed Consumption: 56 MPGe

The CX-90 PHEV is one of those crossovers that doesn’t disappoint in any aspect. It’s equipped with the brand’s tried and tested 2.5-liter four-cylinder e-Skyactiv powertrain with an electric motor powered by a 17.8 kWh battery. The result is a 25-mile manufacturer-claimed range and 56 MPGe consumption on the combined cycle.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mazda)

The non-PHEV 3.3-liter straight-six variation is the most powerful Mazda to be put into production, but tests reveal that the CX-90 is quicker off the line, with a 5.9-second 0-60 MPH acceleration time, which is more than half a second faster than the manufacturer’s claim. Pricing starts at $48,820, making it one of the more accessible eight-seater PHEV crossovers featured on this list.

Pros

• Seamless transitions between ICE and EV systems
• High-quality cabin for its segment
• Sharp handling

Cons

• The engine is too loud in the higher revs
• Relatively expensive next to other Mazdas
• Tight third row

18 Volvo XC90 T8 AWD Recharge

Combined Estimated Consumption: 58 MPGe

The XC90 T8 AWD Recharge is one of the older cars featured on this list, but it is by no means any less impressive. Volvo has been driving electrification long before most manufacturers, making it a much more experienced brand in the field. The XC90 is a svelte fuel-saver without compromising luxury or technical ability. The T8 powertrain features a downsized twin-charged engine with a single electric motor, which work together to produce performance car-rivaling outputs.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Volvo)

The EPA estimates the T8 will return 58 MPGe on a combined cycle. The 18.8 kWh battery is enough to drive the Swedish crossover for 33 miles. Even more impressive is the fact that Volvo was able to integrate all of this electric technology without sacrificing any interior space. This generation of the XC90, approaching the end of its lifespan and set for replacement by the compelling all-electric EX90, still stands as a great new car option outshining many of its younger rivals.

Pros

• Visually aging gracefully
• Amazing interior quality
• Strong engine characteristics

Cons

• Compromised third row
• The infotainment system is in desperate need of an update
• Costly optional extras

17 BMW X5 xDrive50e

Claimed Combined Consumption: 58 MPGe

The all-new BMW X5 xDrive50e powertrain makes the premium crossover faster and more efficient. It features a 25.7 kWh battery pack that grants it up to 40 miles of range, as per the brand’s claims. The turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six and single electric motor will return a claimed 58 MPGe. The EPA has yet to test this model, so real-world estimates are not yet available.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from BMW)

BMW prices its new model at $72,500 before options. It may seem steep, but next to the aforementioned XM and iX ranges, it’s an arguably competitive price. Granted, it is nowhere as powerful as those two models, but tests reveal it can sprint from 0-60 MPH in less than 5.0 seconds, which should be more than fast enough for most urban users.

Pros

• Percieved quality in the cabin is game-changing
• New infotainment system dazzles
• Improvements to the powertrain are welcome.

Cons

• Lacks BMW’s traditional handling characteristics
• Third row not suitable for usage
• Concerning lack of physical buttons

16 Audi Q5 55 TFSI e

Combined Estimated Consumption: 60 MPGe

The Audi Q5 TFSI e is one of the more underrated models featured on this list, primarily because of its relatively dated and conservative design, in a pool where manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of futurism and aerodynamics. The model features the brand’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged unit and a small electric motor, producing a combined 362 horsepower output and granting a 5.0-second 0-60 MPH claimed acceleration time. Reviews confirm that it can be as fast as 4.5 seconds.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Audi)

The German crossover is equally impressive when it comes to fuel consumption, as the EPA estimates it to consume a combined 60 MPGe. The 14.1 kWh battery is relatively compact, but it is enough to cover 22 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for urban and extra-urban settings.

Pros

• Easy to live with daily driver
• Punchy powertrain
• Sophisticated interior

Cons

• Starting to look a bit visually dated
• Heavy curb weight for its segment
• Small gas tank drastically compromises range

15 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge

Combined Estimated Consumption: 63 MPGe

The Volvo XC60 Recharge is an accomplished and established choice in the mid-size PHEV SUV segment, primarily thanks to the twin-charged hybrid powertrain. The result of this system is performance car-rivaling acceleration abilities with the benefit of economical fuel returns. The EPA estimates the XC60 to consume 63 MPGe on the combined cycle and cover 36 miles on a single charge from the 11.6 kWh battery pack.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Volvo)

The base XC60 Recharge Core trim starts at $59,295, but the one you want to get is the flagship $76,645 Polestar Engineered variation. This turns the SUV into a true performance model with a sportier Öhlins adaptive suspension, forged alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, and sportier visual cues. Volvo claims a rather bold 4.5-second 0-60 MPH acceleration time for this trim, but tests reveal it can be as quick as 4.3 seconds.

Pros

• Dazzling interior design
• Sharp exterior looks
• Polestar Engineered specification offers a great drive

Cons

• Restrictive cargo area
• Google infotainment interface is hard to use
• Larger wheels drastically compromises ride

14 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Combined Estimated Consumption: 64 MPGe

The Outlander PHEV is a unique proposition, because it is the only naturally aspirated seven-seater plug-in hybrid available in the USA. Under the hood sits the company’s bulletproof MIVEC 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, supported by two permanent magnet motors positioned on each axle. This system drives 248 horsepower and 332 pound-feet to all four wheels, resulting in an impressive 0-60 MPH time of 6.5 seconds.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mitsubishi)

Mitsubishi has equipped its fuel-saving crossover with a 13.8 kWh battery pack, which the EPA estimates will carry you for 38 miles. The system will also consume an estimated 64 MPGe on the combined cycle. Even more appealing is the fact that the Outlander range starts at $40,345, which is expensive for a Mitsubishi, but incredible value when considering the segment and specification level.

Pros

• Generous standard features list
• Comfortable seating
• Straight-forward mechanical components

Cons

• Powertrain lacks charisma
• Quite a costly option
• Not a lot of space in the third row

13 Mini Cooper S E Countryman All4

Combined Estimated Consumption: 73 MPGe

The Mini Cooper S E Countryman All4, soon to be replaced by an all-new generation model, remains a compelling PHEV compact crossover option to consider for the time being. BMW’s B38 three-cylinder engine and an electric motor drive the model, producing a combined 221 horsepower.

It makes use of an incredibly compact 7.6 kWh battery pack, granting it a miniscule 18 miles of range, as per the EPA’s estimates. Thankfully, it benefits from an impressive 73 MPGe combined consumption estimate.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mini)

The PHEV Countryman is a compact option that’s only suitable for smaller families in dense urban settings. Pricing starts at $42,700, making it a more premium option in the segment, but local availability is going to be somewhat limited now that the new generation has hit the production line. We expect the successor to offer more power and a bigger battery, though its official specifications are yet to be revealed.

Pros

• Trendy interior and exterior design
• Handles like a hot hatch
• High interior perceived quality

Cons

• Cramped interior space
• Powertrain is a bit rough
• Sharp handling comes at the cost of ride comfort

12 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

Combined Estimated Consumption: 76 MPGe

The fifth-generation model will soon replace this generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe, but the powertrains used between these two are pretty much identical. It uses the brand’s turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder Smartstream engine with a single permanent-magnet motor, producing a combined 261 horsepower and 258 pound-feet. The result is a modest 7.0-second 0-60 MPH time, but where this model really shines is in fuel consumption returns.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Hyundai)

The EPA estimates this seven-seater to consume a combined 76 MPGe. The 13.8 kWh battery powers the SUV for 31 miles before needing a recharge. Pricing starts at $42,410 for the SLE trim, but you can expect this price to bump up a bit higher when the new model arrives.

Pros

• Plenty of interior space
• Extensive standard technical features
• Light but direct controls

Cons

• Divisive exterior design
• Gasoline engine gets heavy without the electric system
• Infotainment system can confuse some users

11 Alfa Romeo Tonale

Combined Estimated Consumption: 77 MPGe

The Alfa Romeo Tonale is a monumental shift for the Italian marque, because it is the first PHEV crossover to be sold by the brand here in the U.S. In true Alfa Romeo fashion, it is a truly sporty and zesty crossover experience with commendable performance and fuel consumption abilities. The Tonale is the Stellantis group’s first step towards electrification, as it plans to remove all ICEs from its products by 2030.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Alfa Romeo)

A downsized 1.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, supported by an electric motor and 14.8 kWh battery pack, equips the Tonale. The EPA estimates this drivetrain to return a 77 MPGe combined consumption and cover 33 miles on a single charge, making it a more than ideal crossover for dense city settings. The only catch is its $44,590 starting price for the base Sprint trim, which is not as well-equipped as its opponents.

Pros

• Chic Italian styling
• Poised handling characteristics
• Refined PHEV system

Cons

• Questionable pricing strategy
• Inconsistent interior quality
• Performance dips in the high revs

10 Dodge Hornet R/T

Combined Estimated Consumption: 77 MPGe

The Dodge Hornet is essentially the Tonale’s clone, but with a more attractive $40,935 starting price. There are no other differences between the two models, except for the specification level and visual design. Regardless, this is a noteworthy product for the Dodge brand, because this little compact crossover officially wears the R/T badge, making it the smallest displacement product in the performance arm’s extensive history.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Dodge)

Naturally, this may upset many members of the Dodge Brotherhood, but at least, it is a lot more of an accomplished model compared to the likes of the Caliber, Journey, and Nitro. Dodge estimates the Hornet will sprint from 0-60 MPH in 6.5 seconds, but 5.6 seconds is achievable when you use the Powershot mode. This is faster than the Dodge Charger GT’s acceleration 6.4-second figure.

Pros

• Enjoyable performance characteristics
• Broad list of features
• PHEV system launches the brand into the new age

Cons

• May upset some die-hard Dodge fans
• Limited interior space
• Costly for a compact Dodge

9 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring

Combined Estimated Consumption: 78 MPGe

The Lincoln Corsair, based on the Ford Escape, adopts a more performance-minded approach with some luxurious touches. A naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a single electric motor powered by a 14.4 kWh battery drive the posh crossover. The EPA estimates this system covers 27 miles, not particularly exciting, but its 78 MPGe combined consumption estimate leads the class in the luxury compact crossover segment.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Lincoln)

It’s also quite a bit more accessible than the Aviator, with its $53,925 starting price, but that’s still a tall price to pay for a compact segment product. While it may come across as a sleek crossover, the Corsair is commonly handed mediocre review scores.

Pros

• Adds a level of luxury to the Ford platform
• Supple ride characteristics
• Looks the part

Cons

• Handling is left to be desired
• Too many optional technical features
• No accessible trim for the PHEV

8 Kia Sorento PHEV

Combined Estimated Consumption: 79 MPGe

Kia will introduce the updated Sorento model early next year, so updated EPA figures are not yet available. It’s unlikely to be much different considering the powertrain will be largely unchanged. The EPA currently estimates the seven-seater crossover to consume 79 MPGe, combined and cover 32 miles on a single charge, from the same 13.8 kWh battery used in the Santa Fe.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Kia)

Considering the Sorento is almost 200 pounds heavier than the Santa Fe, and delivers the same power, its improved efficiency is somewhat bizarre. Interestingly, the Kia is also slower from 0-60 MPH, with road tests revealing tested times of 7.9 seconds from 0-60 MPH. This is almost a whole second slower than the Hyundai’s tested times.

Pros

• Packed with comfort and technical features
• Roomy interior
• Responsive and slick infotainment system

Cons

• Dull steering characteristics
• The ride can get a bit choppy
• Relatively inaccessible price

7 Hyundai Tucson PHEV

Combined Estimated Consumption: 80 MPGe

The Tucson PHEV adopts the Santa Fe’s drivetrain without any changes, but because it is in a smaller crossover package, it benefits from better performance and efficiency. Hyundai claims its Tucson to be half a second faster from 0-60 MPH, but tests show that they have very similar acceleration times that range between 7.1 to 7.6 seconds.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Hyundai)

Efficiency is where the Tucson becomes more appealing with its 80 MPGe EPA estimation on the combined cycle and a battery range of 33 miles. Pricing for the range starts at a relatively costly $38,495 for the base SEL trim, but this reflects a justifiable value when considering its efficiency and performance.

Pros

• Low interior noise levels
• Head-turning exterior designs
• Generous warranty package

Cons

• Some of the touch controls need refinement
• A steep price increase over the rest of the Tucson range
• The rear section of the interior is cramped