When shopping for a new car, avoiding the hype surrounding the EV craze is challenging. Charging a fully electric vehicle at home overnight is simple enough, but range anxiety is still a genuine concern. However, if your daily commute is 25 to 30 miles, a plug-in hybrid car delivers the best of both worlds, with enough electric-only range for trips around town and a fuel-sipping gas engine for longer journeys. Below are three of the best plug-in hybrid cars for 2023, according to TrueCar.

The top plug-in hybrid cars of 2023

TrueCar uses proprietary “data-driven methodology,” owner surveys, and experts to evaluate cars, trucks, and SUVs before making recommendations. The team analyzed the data to find the best plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) to help narrow your search. Although most of the models represent premium brands demanding premium prices, one economical option tops the list. 

2022 Toyota Prius Prime

Toyota introduced the Prius in the late ’90s as the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. And now, the 2022 Prius Prime PHEV is a fine example of the Japanese automaker’s continued commitment to hybrid fuel efficiency. It boasts a combined 54 mpg, including a 25-mile all-electric range. And with a starting price of around $30,000 and well-equipped models ranging upward of $36,000, the 2022 Prius Prime provides excellent fuel economy at an affordable cost. 

The standard Prius Prime LE has advanced safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and “quad-LED” projector headlights. The mid-range XLE trim features an 11.6-inch multimedia display and heated front seats with SofTex synthetic leather. And the top-of-the-line Limited trim includes a color head-up display, “intelligent clearance sonar,” and a 10-speaker premium audio system.

Positive notes from owner-submitted reviews include exceptional fuel economy, standard safety features, and “wicked awesome performance.” However, most complaints stem from the battery pack’s intrusion into the trunk space, limiting its cargo capacity. Other negatives are easily scratched interior plastics, unintuitive control panel apps, and a “mushy ride quality.” 

2023 Volvo V60 Recharge

The 2023 Volvo V60 Recharge PHEV is a five-seat compact station wagon with “stylish good looks” and a $71,645 MSRP, per TrueCar. It features an extended-range battery and 455 hp from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine–based hybrid powertrain. With that much power, its 31 mpg combined is understandably lower than that of the Prius Prime, but the V60 Recharge offers an increased electric-only range of 41 miles on a full charge. 

The V60 Recharge Polestar, the sole trim level, comes well-equipped with adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, heated seats, a head-up display, curve-adaptive headlamps, and a panoramic moonroof. 

The V60 gets rave reviews for its attractive styling, upscale cabin, and numerous advanced driver-assistance systems. However, some reviewers note that other models in this class provide a better ride and that Volvo’s infotainment system is less responsive than expected. 

2023 Volvo S90 Recharge

Like the V60, the 2023 Volvo S90 Recharge offers only one trim level: Ultimate. In addition, it uses the same 455-hp powertrain and starts above $71,000. However, with a combined 30 mpg and 38 miles of electric-only range, this five-seat sedan has slightly lower fuel economy ratings than its wagon sibling. 

As expected from a Volvo vehicle, the S90 boasts a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology, an upscale cabin, and a panoramic moonroof. Unfortunately, owners complain about the same finicky touchscreen system, an overly firm ride, and a heavy steering feel.