It’s no secret that the rising gas prices in the U.S. and climate concerns have made many people curious about electric vehicles (EVs). EVs rely on electric motors and require no gasoline to run, instead fueling up at charging stations. On the other hand, hybrid models are mostly gas-powered but have a small electric motor that turns off when coasting or at a standstill. This motor is charged when the driver applies the brakes, and they cost much less than EVs.

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) combine a bit of both, allowing you to recharge the electric battery and drive some miles on electric power while also filling up at gas stations to rely on gas power. EVs and hybrids have come a long way in recent years, but many car experts agree that plug-in hybrids are better options than EVs in the current market and with current technology. So, HotCars recommends these five plug-in hybrids over many EV options.

5. Toyota RAV4 Prime

One recommendation from HotCars is the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Although Toyota has been a major player in the world of hybrids for years, the Toyota RAV4 Prime is the first time it has given drivers an option for a plug-in hybrid. This SUV boasts an impressive 40-mile range, though its efficiency goes down to 34 mpg when changing to hybrid mode, according to Consumer Reports. It can produce up to 228 horsepower, making it a less snappy option than others on the list. Oddly enough, its 0 to 60 mph time clocks in at 5.7 seconds, which is the fastest four-door Toyota vehicle on the market, according to The Drive. 

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime starts at $41,515. 

4. Cupra Formentor

Sadly not available in America, the Cupra Formentor is a Spanish hybrid with a stunning exterior, great fuel efficiency, and six different trims. You can choose from a regular hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version. According to Cupra, the V1 and V2 eCupra can produce up to 204 hp and get an electric range of 36 miles. The VZ1 and VZ2 can give up to 245 hp and 34 miles of electric range. 

The Cupra Formentor starts at $30,335. 

3. Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Turismo

The main downside of the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Turismo is its ridiculously long name. This plug-in hybrid provides a hard-to-believe 690 horsepower and can get to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds, according to Car and Driver. You can get approximately 20 miles out of electric-only power and 48 MPGe with a combination of gas and electricity. 

If you can afford the $195,000 starting price, you can get a fantastic plug-in option out of this Porsche model. 

2. Skoda Superb iV

The Skoda Superb iV is a practical choice all-around, though some have gripes about its exterior, which is reminiscent of a Volkswagen Golf SportWagen. Driving Electric reports that some believe this car’s design is too old-fashioned, but if you can overlook that, you can get a plug-in hybrid with decent handling, a good powertrain, and an electric range of 36 miles. It may not give as much horsepower as the Porsche above, but it can still hold its own with a 215-hp metric and a 0-62 mpg in 7.7 seconds. 

The Skoda Superb iV starts at a reasonable $35,181. 

1. Peugeot 508 PSE SW

Looking for a performance sedan? If so, the Peugeot 508 PSE SW might be what you’re looking for. This plug-in hybrid can provide up to 360 horsepower, according to Hot Cars, and can get up to 155 mph per Top Gear. Oddly enough, this car comes standard with massaging seats, so you can relax while you get 26 miles of all-electric range. 

Getting this beast of a plug-in hybrid will cost you $55,795.