Best Hybrid Cars from Consumer Reports' Tests

Now’s The Time to Go Hybrid
While fully electric cars are still going through their growing pains and the public charging infrastructure is not there yet to ensure that you never have to worry about how much charge you have left, Consumer Reports is telling consumers that there is no reason for not going Hybrid today.

Not Yesteryear’s Hybrid
One point shoppers need to understand today is that a lot has changed over the past two years toward improvements on Hybrid vehicles with a focus not just on fuel economy, but the overall ride and ownership experience that makes today’s Hybrids not the Hybrids of yesteryear. This is not to say that older Hybrids should be avoided, but that the newer Hybrids are even better to the point that it makes sense to go Hybrid right now rather than continue with the more traditional gas-only models.

Related article: Used Hybrids and Hatchbacks with the Best Fuel Economy Say Consumer Reports Analysts

That said, here is a summary of the Hybrid models CR analyst state are the best with a few points to consider regarding each model.

CR’S TOP-RATED HYBRID VEHICLES

2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Price Range: $25,945 - $36,370
CR MPG: Overall 47 / City 39 / Hwy 53 mpg
Rated #1 of 14 Midsized cars

Points to consider:
• SE and XLE trims of the hybrid use a different battery technology from the tested LE’s and might not achieve as good overall MPG.
• Car’s lower stance makes access a little more difficult than other models.
• Rear seat is not as roomy as observed in some competing models.

2023 Lexus ES Hybrid
Price Range: $41,020
CR MPG: Overall 42 / City 32 / Hwy 52 mpg
Rated #1 of 14 Luxury midsized cars

Points to consider:
• Improved infotainment touchscreen.
• Luxurious interior.
• Improved handling.
• Standard safety equipment includes AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW.

2022 Toyota Prius
Price Range: $25,075 - $33,370
CR MPG: Overall 52 / City 43 / Hwy 59 mpg
Rated #1 of 15 Small hatchbacks

Points to consider:
• Travels on electric power alone up to 25 mph.
• Engine tends to moan loudly when electric function kicks in.
• Seats have mediocre support.
• Tire noise is noticeable.
• Low stance makes it a challenge to get in and out.
• Might want to wait for the 2023 model next year.

2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Price Range: $21,550 - $27,175
CR MPG: Overall 48 / City 37 / Hwy 59 mpg
Rated #2 of 14 Small sedans

Points to consider:
• Impressive 48 mpg overall
• Acceleration is best described as leisurely.
• The continuously variable transmission amplifies engine noise.
• All-wheel drive is available with the 2023 freshening, and the hybrid version has more trim levels to choose from.

2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Price Range: $27,950 - $36,250
CR MPG: Overall 44 / City 36 / Hwy 51 mpg
Rated #9 of 14 Midsized cars

Points to consider:
• Six-speed transmission shifts rough.
• Possesses responsive handling but a rather stiff ride.
• Rear-seat room is decent, although the low stance compromises access.
• The modern cabin is marred by a counterintuitive push-button gear selector.

2022 Toyota Prius Prime
Price Range: $28,770 - $34,550
CR MPG: Overall 69 / City 56 / Hwy 81 mpg
Rated #3 of 15 Small hatchbacks

Points to consider:
• It takes 2 hours to charge the Prime through a 240-volt connector and 5 hours on a regular 120-volt.
• When not running in electric mode, the Prime operates much like the regular Prius.
• Large touchscreen on the Limited model is unintuitive to use.

2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Price Range: $24,400 - $29,000
CR MPG: Overall 48 / City 40 / Hwy 55 mpg
Rated #7 of 14 Small sedans

Points to consider:
• The new Elantra Hybrid is the best version of the model line with a slightly roomier interior and more sophisticated infotainment system.
• The new hybrid version has an impressive 48 mpg overall, and it also has a smoother ride and quieter cabin than the regular model.
• Handling is nimble, but the ride is overly firm.
• Engine gets noisy.
• Seat comfort is so-so unless buyers get the pricier Limited trim.
• Car’s low stance makes access awkward.

And finally…

For additional related articles about Hybrid vehicles, here are a few for your consideration:

• Should you Buy a Toyota Camry Hybrid Advice from a Toyota Mechanic

• Toyota Hybrid Owner Experience with an Aftermarket Hybrid Battery

• Toyota Prius Hybrid Battery Replacement Warning

COMING UP NEXT: Just Rolled In Customer Heats Car with Lit Propane Burner…and More!

Timothy Boyer is a Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.

Image Source: Pixabay