If you’re one of the many people out there trying to be more eco-friendly but who also isn’t ready to give up the combustion engine, don’t worry. We’ve put together a list of the most efficient hybrid machines you can buy today.
This list is ranked by combined fuel economy, and we’ve specified the trim level in instances where trim impacts miles per gallon. Even better? Most of these options cost less than $30,000.
The Ford Escape comes with plenty of powertrain options, but its hybrid model is the most efficient. It comes in a handful of trims, but the most basic will run $31,660.
The Lexus UX 250h satisfies a very small niche for folks who want a hatchback but also enjoy that extra bit of ride height provided by a crossover. If you’re one of those people, you can nab 42 mpg for $36,825 — which isn’t terrible, especially considering its all-wheel-drive system.
Toyota’s flagship sedan, the Avalon, comes with a hybrid option that starts at $38,875. It’s the most expensive Toyota on our list, but that’s for a reason: it comes equipped with a ton of standard features, like heated power-adjustable side mirrors, dual climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. If you like the nicer things in life but still have a bit of a budget, the Avalon will be right up your alley.
The Lexus ES 300h is our most expensive vehicle on the list at $43,225 — but if you enjoy your luxury, you’ll likely not mind the price for this well-dressed sedan.
At $28,815, the Honda Accord Hybrid is one of the more exciting sedans on the market right now. Even better, it has ample amounts of space, both for the rear-seat passengers and in the trunk.
The base-model Kia Niro costs a meager $25,985, which is quite a reasonable price for this small hybrid SUV. You won’t be able to haul a family of six, but there will be ample space for rear-seat passengers and your trunk’s goodies.
The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Blue clocks in at roughly $28,445, which is a great price for one of the more popular sedans left on the market. This is a great choice for the folks who like a stiffer ride.
The Hybrid LE is the Toyota Camry’s most basic trim, and it costs $29,075. This current generation Camry also has the benefit of a redesign, making it look a lot more exciting than it has in the past.
The Toyota Corolla hybrid is only offered in the LE trim, and a starting price of $25,145 makes it an attractive option. Since it’s the LE trim, that also means you get a few of Corolla’s niceties with the optional Premium package, like leatherette seats and lumbar support.
The Toyota Prius LE doesn’t boast as much fuel economy as its base model brethren, but with the $27,380 price tag, you will get some of the finer luxury items like heated power-adjustable seats and a smartphone charging pad.
The Honda Insight EX, which starts at $26,855, offers a formidable driving experience. Some hybrids can be a bit boring, but Honda has given the Insight spry acceleration and the kind of handling that makes you want to push the limits just a little bit. If you want it, though, you’ll have to act fast; the Insight will be discontinued after the 2022 model year.
The Blue trim on the Hyundai Elantra is a mid-tier trim that rests just above the N Line. With a starting MSRP of $25,145 and plenty of features, you’ll be able to enjoy the Elantra’s unique looks without breaking the bank.
Hyundai features two Ioniqs on this list, and the Hybrid — or, any of the Ioniq’s trims, aside from the base-model Blue trim — will give you some pretty decent bang for your buck with its $26,645 starting price.
Toyota’s L Eco trim is the base model on the Prius, costing roughly $26,170. While the Prius is no longer the standard to beat in terms of hybrid comfort, it still boasts a strong 56 mpg to its name.
The base-model Hyundai Ioniq is the most efficient of all its trims, according to the EPA. With a $24,695 starting price, that’s pretty much a steal, though you may miss out on a slightly more exciting driving experience.