3 Plug-in Hybrid SUVs With the Lowest Annual Fuel Costs
The Toyota Prius is a pioneer in hybrid vehicle technology. Hybrids have become much more ubiquitous since the early days of the Prius. Consumers have learned to appreciate the superior gas mileage that comes with hybrid vehicle ownership. Some hybrid SUV models have incredibly low annual fuel costs.
The 2022 Lexus UX 250h savors fuel
Who says hybrids can’t look cool? Toyota is a pioneer in the production of hybrid vehicles, so it’s only right that Lexus got some of that secret sauce as well. As the luxury division of Toyota, Lexus vehicles often offer a combination of practicality and comfort. Higher prices make for more attractive styling and more opulent cabins.
The 2022 Lexus UX 250h doesn’t just look great. It also saves drivers money on gas. The UX 250h starts at $35,350. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 181 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid achieves an amazing 41 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway. It gets 39 miles per gallon combined.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the 2021 Lexus UX Hybrid has an annual fuel cost of $750. Since it has the same gas mileage as the newest model year, it’s safe to assume 2022 Lexus UX 250h drivers will pay about $750 annually to fuel their vehicles.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime brings excitement to the plug-in hybrid SUV segment
The aptly named RAV4 Prime is the most powerful RAV4 iteration yet. It uses the RAV4 as inspiration, but the Prime is in a league of its own entirely thanks to its hybrid powertrain. The RAV4 Prime uses a dual-motor system in collaboration with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make a whopping 302 horsepower. Its acceleration is astonishing for a compact SUV.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime gets 40 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. It can travel 42 miles on just electricity. The RAV4 Prime has an annual fuel cost of $750.
The compact SUV starts at $39,800. It’s eligible for an electric vehicle tax credit worth $7,500.
The 2022 Ford Escape PHEV is one of the best plug-in hybrids on the market
The 2022 Ford Escape PHEV starts at $33,940. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 221 horsepower. The Ford Escape PHEV achieves 40 miles per gallon combined. It gets 37 miles of range on just electricity.
The Ford Escape PHEV has a smooth ride quality and plenty of passenger space. It has an annual fuel cost of $750 as well. This small SUV saves big bucks at the gas pump and has great driving dynamics.
Hybrid SUVs don’t have to be boring
Hybrid SUVs don’t have to be a snore to drive. Early hybrid tech may have focused on efficiency over engagement, but new hybrid SUVs have more exciting driving dynamics. Hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 Prime are proving that hybrid SUVs can actually be more powerful and more exciting to drive than gas-powered SUVs.
