Faced with the rising gas and maintenance costs, families are looking for ways to save money when car buying. One solution is investing in a hybrid vehicle. Consumers who need a reliable and fuel-efficient car should consider these models on Gear Patrol’s list of the seven best hybrid family cars. 

1. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

It’s no surprise the Toyota Highlander is one of America’s top-selling vehicles. This reliable family vehicle features seating for seven or eight, depending upon the trim, and 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space. Plus, the hybrid gets 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

2. Ford Explorer Hybrid

The Ford Explorer Hybrid has an advantage over the four-cylinder model: 23 mpg versus 20 mpg with all-wheel drive in the city. In addition, this three-row SUV provides plenty of space for seven or eight riders and 87.8 cubic feet of cargo room for groceries, camping gear, and everything in between.

3. Kia Sorento Hybrid

The Kia Sorento Hybrid boasts an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Also, its powertrain generates a substantial 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The best part? Its six-speed automatic transmission delivers a smooth ride. However, this three-row crossover seats only six, thanks to second-row captain’s chairs.

4. Volvo XC90 Recharge

Gear Patrol calls the Volvo XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid “among the most comfortable and luxurious crossovers out there.” This three-row midsize SUV seats seven or eight in a refined cabin. The T8 engine saw an upgrade for the 2022 model year, so now it “packs 455 hp, more than 500 lb-ft of torque, and a nearly doubled EV range of 36 miles,” Gear Patrol says.

5. Toyota Sienna

The Toyota Sienna has a significant advantage over some of its rivals: It’s the only minivan that pairs its standard hybrid engine with AWD. In addition, EPA fuel economy ratings are an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. And the Woodland trim adds extra ground clearance to this seven-or-eight-seat family hybrid.

6. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Chrysler’s PHEV version of the Pacifica received a refresh for the 2021 model year. It can travel 32 miles on electric-only power, but there’s no AWD option, and seating is limited to seven. However, this family hybrid vehicle boasts Chrysler’s lauded Stow N’ Go seating. It also provides a whopping 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space — far more than any other model on this list.

7. Toyota Sequoia

Like the Sienna, every new Toyota Sequoia has a hybrid powertrain. The Sequoia rides on the same TNGA-F truck platform as the Tundra and Lexus LX 600, making this family hauler a true SUV. It packs a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine harnessing 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. But its fuel economy — 19 mpg city/22 mpg highway — isn’t great for a hybrid vehicle.

Should you buy a family-friendly hybrid car?

Hybrids make excellent family cars. They’re reliable, safe, and environmentally friendly vehicles that can help save you money in the long run. With so many options available, you’ll likely find a model that fits your needs and budget. So, if you’re looking for a fuel-saving yet stylish family hauler, consider a hybrid car.