As the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles surges and environmental consciousness grows, hybrid cars have become increasingly popular among car buyers. The rising prices of new cars, however, can be a significant hurdle. Fortunately, the used car market offers a wide variety of quality options at more accessible prices. If you’re considering making the switch to hybrid technology, exploring the used market is a smart move. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best used hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars, focusing on factors like fuel efficiency, reliability, design, and overall performance.
It’s important to note that the BuzzScore mentioned for each vehicle reflects its ranking against direct competitors in its segment. Therefore, while cars on this list may have similar scores, they might not always be in the same vehicle class. You can learn more about the BuzzScore rating system here.
2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid tops our list as the best used hybrid car for its model year. This Elantra Hybrid excels in fuel efficiency, achieving up to an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined in its Blue trim (53 mpg city/56 mpg highway). For daily commuters prioritizing fuel economy, this car is an excellent choice. Beyond its impressive mileage, the 2021 Elantra Hybrid offers a comfortable ride, a well-appointed interior, and a generous array of standard features. According to Kelley Blue Book, a fair purchase price for a 2021 Elantra Hybrid ranges from approximately $15,164 to $18,730. This represents significant savings compared to its original MSRP, making it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and efficient used hybrid.
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2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
For families requiring a spacious and fuel-efficient vehicle, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid stands out as a compelling used plug-in hybrid minivan. While hybrids are often associated with sedans or compact SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid caters to those needing more passenger and cargo space without compromising fuel economy. Its notable all-electric range of 32 miles and a combined 82 MPGe highlight its efficiency. The 2021 Pacifica Hybrid boasts a roomy and versatile interior, comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and numerous family-friendly features. Sliding doors, ample cargo capacity, and available entertainment systems make it ideal for daily errands and long family road trips.
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2023 Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is an iconic name in the hybrid world. As a pioneer since the late 1990s, it has consistently set the standard for eco-friendly and economical driving. The 2023 Prius continues this legacy, delivering exceptional fuel economy with 57 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway, achieving a combined 57 mpg. Beyond its fuel efficiency, the 2023 Prius offers a comfortable ride and a surprisingly spacious cabin. The latest generation also features a significantly more stylish design. Opting for a lightly used 2023 Prius can save you approximately $1,000 to $2,000 compared to the original new car price. For increased power and all-electric driving range, the Prius Prime plug-in hybrid is also available – we reviewed it last year.
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2021 Honda Accord Hybrid
The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid expertly blends fuel efficiency with a comfortable and engaging driving experience. With an EPA combined rating of 48 mpg, it offers substantial fuel savings without sacrificing performance or driver enjoyment. True to its heritage, the 2021 Accord Hybrid is known for its smooth and refined driving dynamics, making it a pleasure to drive in both urban environments and on highways. In addition to its efficiency and driving characteristics, the 2021 Accord Hybrid boasts a spacious and well-appointed interior, a generous list of standard features, and Honda’s renowned reputation for long-term reliability. Its strong resale value further solidifies its position as a smart and economical choice in the used hybrid market.
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2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact SUV that prioritizes fuel economy. The standard hybrid model achieves 38 mpg combined, while a plug-in hybrid variant delivers 80 MPGe and offers a 33-mile electric-only range. The Tucson Hybrid’s roomy interior and comfortable ride make it well-suited for city driving, and its distinctive styling makes it stand out in the competitive compact SUV segment. Beyond its fuel-saving capabilities, the Tucson Hybrid features a modern design, an intuitive infotainment system, and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies.
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| 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder plug-in hybrid |
2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge
The 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge marks the first luxury vehicle on our list of top used hybrid cars. This sophisticated plug-in hybrid midsize SUV offers an all-electric range of 18 miles and achieves 55 MPGe combined. It’s a strong contender for city drivers with longer commutes or those who frequently undertake long journeys. Inside, the XC90 Recharge provides a premium driving experience. Depending on the trim level, it features high-quality materials and offers optional upgrades like a panoramic sunroof and a premium audio system. Coupled with Volvo’s renowned safety commitment, the XC90 Recharge is a top-tier used luxury hybrid vehicle.
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2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Similar to the Prius, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid consistently ranks as one of the most popular used hybrid SUVs, and for good reason. Its combination of excellent fuel efficiency, practicality, and legendary Toyota reliability makes it a prime choice for many buyers. It boasts a combined fuel economy of 40 mpg, delivering impressive fuel savings. Unlike the standard gasoline-powered RAV4, the hybrid variant offers more power, and all-wheel drive comes standard. The 2020 RAV4 Hybrid is also a comfortable and versatile SUV, providing a spacious interior for both front and rear passengers. Toyota’s strong reputation for reliability and excellent resale value further solidify its position as one of the best second-hand hybrid cars available.
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2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid
The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is another excellent option for families seeking a fuel-efficient hybrid SUV. With a combined fuel economy of 37 mpg, it provides a good balance of practicality and efficiency for both long journeys and daily commutes. A plug-in hybrid version is also available, offering 32 miles of electric range and achieving 79 MPGe/34 mpg combined. The Sorento Hybrid’s spacious interior can accommodate up to seven passengers, and select trims offer features like a panoramic sunroof and a premium sound system. Its combination of space, features, and fuel efficiency makes the Kia Sorento Hybrid a highly appealing option in the used hybrid SUV market segment.
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| 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder plug-in hybrid |
2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
For buyers prioritizing affordability and exceptional fuel efficiency, the 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a standout choice. It is one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid cars on the market, with the 2020 model achieving an EPA-estimated 52 mpg combined (53 mpg city/52 mpg highway). Despite its budget-friendly price point, the 2020 Corolla Hybrid doesn’t compromise on passenger comfort. It offers a comfortable ride, a well-designed interior, and a generous suite of standard safety technologies. Like other used Toyota hybrids on our list, the 2020 Corolla Hybrid boasts strong resale value, making it a wise investment for cost-conscious drivers.
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2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Concluding our list of top picks, the 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid is another popular and highly-regarded used hybrid vehicle. Its 2.0L hybrid powertrain delivers a combined fuel economy of 38 mpg. The 2021 CR-V Hybrid’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and standard all-wheel drive make it a versatile choice for a wide range of driving needs. In addition to its fuel-saving capabilities, the CR-V Hybrid features a user-friendly infotainment system, a comprehensive set of safety features, and Honda’s established reputation for reliability. Its strong resale value further reinforces its position as a smart purchase in the used hybrid market.
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