Some people are getting sick of hearing about electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, but most likely not as sick as paying the ridiculous gas prices. Sure, Tesla owns the electric vehicle world, but some of the most well-known brands are coming out with electric vehicles. It's not all about EVs; some people aren't ready for the complete switch to 100% electric; that's where hybrid cars or plug-in hybrids (PHEV)come in.
You would be hard-pressed to visit a dealership in Canada and not see at least a few hybrid options on the car lot. For Canadians, buying a car, whether a used vehicle, a brand-new car, gas engine, electric, or hybrid, is still the same when you visit a dealership. Well, unless you're purchasing a Tesla, in which case, there are no dealerships. For other automakers, there is still the pushy salesperson with the fancy suit and run-around sales pitch. What a pain! Here's a pointer; just because you are buying a hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or electric car, doesn't mean you have to deal with the hassle of haggling. Buy your car with us, where you have the option of buying online, in-store or a combination.
The main reasons car buyers are gravitating toward hybrid vehicles are for fuel efficiency and to help with environmental impact by eliminating emissions. Both are more than justifiable reasons to explain the demand for various hybrid models. Not to mention, the government is throwing out incentives to entice people to switch to hybrid vehicles. With so many options available, the question is, what is the best hybrid car? It isn't a straightforward response because everyone's vehicle needs are different. Don't fret; we are all about providing information, so we've compiled a list of some of the top hybrid vehicles.
Hyundai Hybrids
Hyundai has been climbing the charts with many of its models, giving us reason to land them on our list of top hybrid vehicles. The Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid can be plugged in, so it is both gas-powered and electric, getting up to 47kms of electric driving range. Like most newer vehicles, the interior is spacious and full of technology. The downside is the battery is quite large, and as a result, some of the cargo space is lost!
The next vehicle on our list looks as if we have time-warped into the future with its design. Hyundai's crossover hybrid SUV, the Hyundai Ioniq, is the plug-in hybrid version of the Ioniq EV. It boasts 139 horsepower, giving it a little zip around the city. Huge brag for Hyundai; this crossover SUV can get over 1000km of driving on a single gas tank. Sure, it's still using gas, but come on, if a vehicle can get that many kilometres, we think it can still be considered fuel-efficient.
Toyota Hybrid Vehicles
Toyota is one of the most trusted brands. With a lineup of models larger than a football team (slight exaggeration), it's no wonder they have some of the top hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Some consider this next vehicle the OG of hybrids, and that's fair; it has been around for two decades. Let's put our hands together for the Toyota Prius. It's received some flack over the years because of its odd-shaped body, but there's no reason for judgment, it is holding its place at the top among hybrids. It's the small but mighty-ish hybrid vehicle that has a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine and contains a lithium-ion battery pack. Toyota needs to shout out to this hybrid vehicle, getting over 1000km of driving range using the electric and hybrid capabilities- the longest range in its class. In addition, it also has the quickest charge time. Although a combination of gas and electric, it has excellent fuel economy: 4.6L/100km for the front-wheel drive and 4.9L/100km with the all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain.
Toyota won't let you down if you love the Toyota Prius but want a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Toyota Prius Prime plug-in hybrid gives you 243km of driving range on the electric power and can be charged in as little as 5.5 hours when connected to a standard 120v household outlet. When using a combination of electric and gas, you can enjoy a range of 1035kms.
Coming in as the sister (or brother) to the Toyota Prius is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the perfect crossover/SUV for families or single folks. When the RAV4 was first introduced, three versions were available, all offering comfort, technology, and the fuel economy consumers were after. In 2021 the Toyota RAV4 Prime was launched. The significant difference is that it is a plug-in hybrid version providing up to 67km of electric driving range.
Kia Hybrid Vehicles
The automaker Kia seems to be popping up on multiple lists these days, and the hybrid vehicles from this brand won't disappoint. The Kia Optima is loaded with safety features and technology, is well-priced, and includes front and rear heated seats. With an MSRP starting at just over $30k, it's an ideal vehicle to start with when switching to a hybrid option.
Commonly people assume that all hybrids are four-door sedans. In the past, that was proven true, but not anymore. The Kia Niro is a spacious crossover/SUV with 19.5 cubic feet of rear space, making it perfect for transporting kids. Although hybrid cars are known for their excellent fuel economy, don't turn your head at the Kia Niro; it offers 4.7km/100km.
Subaru
Just because you want to move into a hybrid vehicle doesn't mean you need to sacrifice practicality and your days of off-road adventures. The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid looks like a gas engine vehicle but comes with a plug-in powertrain. Keep your love for the outdoors as a priority; the Crosstrek is spacious, has high ground clearance, and is all-wheel-drive.
In comparison to how long vehicles have been around, electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles don't have a lot of history, but that doesn't mean there isn't research out there to learn about them. Bonus, you can do your research without leaving your house. Heck, you can buy your hybrid vehicle without getting dressed when shopping with us! That's right, browse our inventory, take the cars on a 360° virtual tour, check out the free CARFAX report, and complete the transaction online. BUT, only if you want; you also have the option of visiting us in-store. Once that's finished, all you need to do is get the car. Wait, you don't need to leave your house for that either; we will bring it right to your door. We want you to love your vehicle which is why we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like it, no problem, we will come to pick it up from you.
