MotorTrend’s 3 Best Midsize Hybrid Sedans Include Some of the Most Fuel-Efficient Cars of 2022
Though sedans may be a dying breed, those who would rather eat soap than drive a crossover still have a healthy menu from which to choose. That said, opting specifically for hybrid limits one’s choices in the midsize sedan segment, but if you want that Prius-level fuel economy in a more attractive package–these midsize hybrid sedans come recommended by MotorTrend.
3. The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid makes for a safe choice
The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid is number 3 on MotorTrend’s list of the best midsize hybrid sedans. The Camry Hybrid is a safe choice, given Toyota’s history of building hybrids, too. However, the Camry is reported by MotorTrend to be the least engaging to drive. The Camry uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with its electric motors giving it 208 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque which translates to a 7.4 second 0-60 mph time.
The 2023 Camry’s drivetrain can get an impressive 51/53 mpg, but only in the LE trim. The LE trim is 100 lbs lighter than the XSE and starts at just under $28,000. Unfortunately, all upper trims get 44/47 mpg. This is primarily due to the smaller 16” wheels fitted on the LE. You could likely achieve fuel economy closer to that of the LE if you opted for smaller wheels on your XLE or XSE.
2. The 2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a fuel-efficient new car
The 8th generation Hyundai Sonata may have a front-end design that resembles a catfish, but the efficiency of this midsize hybrid sedan is something you can’t deny. The 2023 Sonata Hybrid, in its “Blue” trim, gets 50/54 mpg. In SEL or Limited trim, that number dips to 45/51 mpg. This is no reason to despair, however, as this gives the Sonata the best fuel economy of the bunch–at least in its upper trim levels.
The Sonata has a lovely interior and a better-equipped top trim than the Camry but is a bit down on power. The Sonata Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder paired to its electric motors that put out a combined 192 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. That makes it good for a 0-60 mph time that is just a bit slower than the Camry. That said, most consumers are not looking to family-oriented hybrids for their performance jollies.
1. The 2022 Honda Accord Hybrid is the best midsize hybrid sedan
The top spot on the list goes to the 2022 Honda Accord Hybrid. Now, the Accord Hybrid is the least efficient vehicle on this list, but that isn’t as bad as it sounds. The Accord Hybrid gets 47/48 mpg in all trims except the Touring trim, which drops to 44/41 mpg—primarily because of the 19” wheels. These are still spectacular numbers that best even the most efficient hybrid crossovers.
The Accord Hybrid comes with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder paired with electric motors that make a combined 212 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque which helps the Accord hit 60 mph in 6.7 seconds–not bad for a hybrid sedan focused on efficiency. The Accord Hybrid is considered the most fun of the group, due in large part to its surprisingly precise steering and typical Honda charm in corners, reports MotorTrend.
MotorTrend’s 3 best midsize hybrid sedans include something for everyone
If you are in the market for a hybrid, the midsize sedan segment makes a lot of sense. Sedans don’t have the same egregious markups that many of the hot new crossovers do, but they have great utility and can save you a tremendous amount on fuel. The 2023 Camry Hybrid is a safe choice given its reputation for long-term reliability and reasonably priced top trim.
The 2023 Sonata Hybrid has the better tech and is the only car with a traditional torque converter automatic. This may be your best option if you don’t like the feel of a CVT. The 2022 Accord Hybrid is the most fun to drive, it’s the quickest, but it also has a great blend of tech and simplicity. You may have a tough time choosing between these three midsize hybrid sedans, but there isn’t a bad choice in the bunch.
