For those intrigued by electric cars yet hesitant to fully abandon petrol, plug-in hybrids offer an ideal compromise. These vehicles feature bigger batteries that can be charged from your home outlet. They enable driving short distances purely on electric power, substantially cutting down on fuel consumption. When embarking on longer journeys, they function similarly to conventional hybrids using their internal combustion engine once the battery depletes—ensuring you won't run out of juice even when far from charging stations. Simply stop for some gas along the way.
More and more hybrid versions of popular SUVs are now available, and Edmunds' specialists have compiled a selection of their top picks to match different price ranges. The costs listed here encompass destination fees.
$40,000 to spend: Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid
The Kia Niro stands out as a compact, chic, and budget-friendly crossover. Available in both hybrid and all-electric variants, the plug-in hybrid model strikes a perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and fuel efficiency. This vehicle can travel up to an EPA-estimated 33 miles solely on electric power. Once this range is exhausted, it achieves an approximate fuel economy of 48 mpg with its gasoline engine assisting.
The Niro Plug-in Hybrid comes in two trims: EX and SX Touring. The higher trim level offers surprising amenities such as ventilated front seats and digital key technology, which allows you to use your smartphone as the car’s key. We particularly enjoy the vehicle’s advanced technology and its serene, cutting-edge cabin. However, potential buyers who frequently drive in snowy conditions might want to keep in mind that all-wheel-drive capability is not an option for this model.
2025 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid starting price: $35,885
$45,000 to spend: Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid
Of all the plug-in SUV options available, we particularly enjoy the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid. It excels across various evaluations conducted by Edmunds. Additionally, should you find yourself drawn to the design of this compact SUV, it’s likely you will appreciate many of its other features too.
The Tucson’s plug-in hybrid system offers brisk, seamless, and fulfilling acceleration. With an estimated electric range of 32 miles according to the EPA, it suffices for brief trips and running nearby errands. When operating solely with its gasoline engine, the Tucson achieves up to 35 mpg. Additionally, all-wheel drive comes as a standard feature, enhancing this compact SUV’s attractiveness.
The plug-in Tucson comes in SEL and Limited trims, offering great worth along with Hyundai’s comprehensive owner perks such as their top-notch warranty and free routine service schedule.
The base price of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid starts at $41,180.
With $50,000 available for spending: Consider the Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid
Should you be seeking a midsize SUV equipped with three rows of seating and a plug-in hybrid system for the year 2025, the Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid would make a suitable option. Available in EX and SX Prestige trims from Kia, each variant includes standard all-wheel-drive capability along with ample power delivery. Featuring up to 31 miles of electric-only travel and achieving approximately 33 mpg once the gasoline engine engages, this plug-in Sorento serves as an excellent vehicle for families requiring efficient transportation.
Our tests have shown that the Sorento not only stands out for its attractive design but also boasts a comfy cabin and advanced infotainment and safety features. Nonetheless, it comes with optional second-row captain’s chairs as standard, which restricts seating to just six passengers.
The base price of the 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid starts at $49,405.
$55,000 to spend: 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
Setting out on an off-road expedition? The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is your ideal plug-in sport utility vehicle. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option, it excels in capability once you leave the road behind and dive into uncharted territories. Plus, removing the roof and doors offers an unparalleled sense of freedom during your drive.
Sadly, this plugin-equipped Jeep provides just 22 miles of electric driving range. Once the gasoline engine activates, fuel efficiency doesn’t improve much, averaging around 20 mpg combined. Additionally, Wranglers lack comfort, quietness, and refinement. However, if these drawbacks do not deter you, there are eight different variants of theWrangler 4xe available to suit nearly every preference.
The base price for the 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is $52,960.
With $75,000 available for your budget: consider the 2025 BMW X5 xDrive50e.
If you're looking for luxury and desire an engaging drive, consider the 2025 BMW X5 xDrive50e. This model offers the sophistication and advanced tech features you seek, along with the characteristic performance of BMW vehicles. Additionally, it provides up to 38 miles of all-electric range and achieves approximately 22 mpg in mixed driving conditions.
Just as anticipated, the X5 plug-in offers a luxurious interior and comes equipped with the most recent BMW infotainment and driver aid systems. However, the real highlight is its 483-horsepower turbocharged plug-in hybrid engine. During tests conducted by Edmunds, this powerful setup enabled the SUV to accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in merely 4.6 seconds.
The base price for the 2025 BMW X5 xDrive50e starts at $74,975.
Edmunds Says
Among these plug-in SUVs, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid offers an ideal mix of value, comfort, utility, technology, performance and efficiency. However, whether you need something more affordable or with extra seating, or you want an off-roader or a luxury vehicle, there is a plug-in SUV for almost any budget or purpose.
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The narrative was supplied to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds.
Christian Wardlaw is a contributor for Edmunds.
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