Purchasing a hybrid vehicle can lead to substantial improvements in fuel efficiency and can lower your monthly fuel expenses. Nowadays, there is a wide selection of newly manufactured hybrid cars, SUVs, and trucks available on the market. However, if buying a new vehicle isn’t within your budget, opting for a used hybrid can be a smart alternative. A gently used hybrid can save you thousands compared to a new model and can provide reliable service for many years.

The automotive experts have compiled a list of five top recommendations for used hybrid cars, trucks, and SUVs based on extensive testing, fuel efficiency, and overall value. The price estimates mentioned reflect what you might typically find at nationwide dealerships that offer no-haggle pricing, like CarMax or Carvana.

**Small Car: Toyota Prius**
The Toyota Prius is the original hybrid that set the standard, and it continues to excel in fuel efficiency and practicality. For instance, a 2021 Prius boasts up to an EPA-estimated 56 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving, depending on the specific trim. Its hatchback design facilitates easy loading and unloading of items. There’s also an all-wheel-drive version available. However, one significant drawback is its relatively slow acceleration.
For the best selection, the LE or XLE trims are recommended as they balance efficiency with convenience. Buyers might also want to consider the Prius Prime, a plug-in hybrid offering up to 25 miles of electric range. Although it’s less commonly available, it typically comes at a slightly higher price.
**2021-2022 Prius Pricing:** Roughly $23,000 to $29,000

**Midsize Sedan: Honda Accord Hybrid**
The Honda Accord is known for its spacious interior, generous trunk space, and enjoyable driving experience, all of which are also present in the Accord Hybrid. A 2022 Accord Hybrid achieves up to an EPA-estimated 47 miles per gallon combined, which is impressive for a midsize sedan. Almost every attribute of the Accord Hybrid showcases a high level of sophistication, allowing you to forget that you are driving a hybrid vehicle.
It’s advisable to look for the Accord EX-L trim, which offers 47 mpg and comes equipped with luxuries not found in the base model, such as heated seats, leather materials, and a premium audio system. While the fully-loaded Touring trim is nice, its 19-inch wheels reduce the mpg to a combined rating of 43.
**2021-2022 Accord Hybrid Pricing:** Around $25,000 to $30,000

**Extra Small SUV: Kia Niro**
If you’re searching for an economical crossover SUV option, consider the Kia Niro. The base 2022 model achieves up to 50 miles per gallon combined, similar to that of the Prius, but is priced significantly lower. It also offers good practicality with ample passenger and cargo space relative to its compact size. However, contributors to its downsides include slow acceleration and limited availability of all-wheel drive.
The Niro EX Premium trim is worth seeking out, as it is packed with features such as premium audio, ventilated seating, and synthetic leather upholstery. A plug-in hybrid variant is also on offer.
**2021-2022 Niro Pricing:** Approximately $20,000 to $26,000

**Small SUV: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid**
For those considering a small SUV, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is an exceptional choice. It retains the spaciousness and comfort of the standard RAV4 while featuring standard all-wheel drive and achieving up to an EPA-estimated 40 miles per gallon combined for both 2021 and 2022 models. Additionally, it accelerates faster to 60 mph compared to the gasoline-only version, making it a standout option.
The XLE Premium trim is a great middle-ground option in the RAV4 Hybrid lineup, as it combines value with several appealing standard features, including a sunroof and power liftgate.
**2021-2022 RAV4 Hybrid Pricing:** About $30,000 to $38,000

**Truck: Ford F-150**
Typically, hybrids and pickups do not go hand in hand, but Ford is setting a trend with its F-150 available with an optional hybrid powertrain known as PowerBoost. This system integrates a turbocharged V6 with hybrid components to produce a powerful 430 horsepower while achieving up to an EPA-estimated 25 miles per gallon combined. Although the new PowerBoost was a pricier upgrade, used models are considerably more affordable.
It’s important to note that PowerBoost is an optional powertrain rather than a trim level, so it may require some searching through used inventories to find this feature. The good news is that the hybrid option is offered across nearly all F-150 trim levels.
**2021-2022 F-150 Pricing with PowerBoost:** Estimated between $38,000 to $51,000

In conclusion, purchasing a lightly used hybrid is a prudent choice for budget-conscious consumers. This approach minimizes the upfront cost of hybrid ownership while still allowing access to a vehicle that is likely still under warranty.