8 Best Hybrid and Electric Cars for the Money in 2022 According to U.S. News
Hybrid and electric vehicle sales have spiked thanks to rising gas prices. “The best hybrids, in which an electric motor and a self-charging battery pack assist a gasoline engine, often get in excess of 50 mpg in combined city/highway driving,” U.S. News reports. “A plug-in hybrid adds a larger battery that enables the vehicle to run on battery power alone for an extended period of time before defaulting to hybrid mode, which can be 40 miles or more. However, it must be charged via the power grid to enable this advantage.”
On the other hand, electric vehicles don’t require gasoline. An EV can travel 100 to 500 miles on a full charge, depending on the model.
Here are the eight best hybrid and electric cars for the money in 2022, according to U.S. News:
1. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
- MSRP: $23,750
- 5-Year Ownership Cost: $40,064
The 2022 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Blue trim is EPA-rated for 53 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway. That means it costs about $600 less per year in gasoline than the average internal combustion engine (ICE) car. The Elantra Hybrid packs a 139-hp 1.6-liter engine, a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. In addition, the 2022 Elantra Hybrid features a spacious cabin and earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
2. Toyota Camry Hybrid
- MSRP: $27,380
- 5-Year Ownership Cost: $41,738
The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid will save you about $700 per year in fuel costs compared to gas-only models. This hybrid has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor making a combined 208 hp. They pair with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Camry Hybrid models come standard with front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive (AWD) isn’t available.
3. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
- MSRP: $27,200
- 5-Year Ownership Cost: $42,345
According to the EPA, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata Blue costs $1,050 annually to fill the gas tank. That’s $750 less than the gas-only Sonata model. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor generate 192 hp. As for safety, the Sonata Hybrid received a five-star rating from the NHTSA.
4. Honda Insight
- MSRP: $25,760
- 5-Year Ownership Cost: $40,618
The 2022 Honda Insight is surprisingly affordable, and its five-year cost to own is about $40,618. A 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors make 151 hp. The NHTSA and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave this model superb ratings in crash tests. It also boasts advanced accident-avoidance systems.
5. Honda Accord Hybrid
- MSRP: $27,320
- 5-Year Ownership Cost: $45,945
Although the 2022 Honda Accord Hybrid starts at $1,200 more than its ICE sibling, the former is EPA-rated for 48 mpg in the city and 47 mpg on the highway. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors. For added peace of mind, this model gets excellent NHTSA and IIHS scores for occupant protection.
6. Toyota Prius
- MSRP: $25,075
- 5-Year Ownership Cost: $40,414
No best-of list would be complete without the legend of hybrid cars. The EPA says the 2022 Toyota Prius costs owners $5,200 less than the average sedan over five years. It gets 54 mpg in the city and 50 mpg on the highway. The Prius also offers AWD for enhanced traction, a 121-hp hybrid powertrain, and several advanced driver-assistance systems.
7. Toyota Prius Prime
- MSRP: $28,220
- 5-Year Ownership Costs: $40,752
The Toyota Prius Prime is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the original. The 2022 model can go 25 miles on electric power alone and gets 133 MPGe. According to the EPA, owners will spend about $750 per year on fuel. The four-cylinder engine and electric motor produce 121 hp and pair with an efficient CVT. You’ll also find plenty of driver assists and infotainment features to keep you safe and connected.
8. Toyota Avalon Hybrid
- MSRP: $37,350
- 5-Year Cost of Ownership: $51,699
The 2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid gets 43 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway, while gas-only versions get only 22/32 mpg. The hybrid packs a 215-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors. Benefits include a smooth ride and an elegant cabin.
Is a hybrid or EV right for you?
If you’re in the market for a new car but don’t want to spend a fortune at the gas pump, a hybrid or electric vehicle might be a better fit for your lifestyle. You’ll likely save money in the long run.