U.S. News Highlights the Best Electric Cars in 2022
Shopping for hybrid and electric vehicles in 2022 gets complicated. Even a few years ago, there were only a few options to choose from: one or two electric cars, a handful of plug-in hybrids, and a smattering of hybrid cars that all looked more or less the same. But now, there are dozens of incredible electrified vehicles available.
U.S. News recently highlighted the best electric cars in 2022. we’ve ranked them here by their overall score, but it’s hard to compare electric SUVs with plug-in hybrid sedans, so be sure to consider each vehicle separately.
The 2022 Toyota Prius wins Best Hybrid Car
Pricing: $24,625-$32,920
U.S. News overall score: 7.8/10
The Prius maintains its place as a staple of the electrified vehicle market, and as a capable and well-rounded hybrid car. The Prius has been around for nearly 20 years, and while it’s not the competitor it used to be, it still has a lot to offer. This hybrid hatchback boasts lots of cargo space and up to 58 mpg in the city from its classic powertrain. A bonus? The 2022 Prius is one of the most reliable used electric vehicles.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid wins Best Hybrid SUV
Pricing: $29,075-$37,575
U.S. News overall score: 8.1/10
U.S. News notes that the 2022 RAV4 Hybrid does a lot well; it’s not all that exciting, but it is a jack of all trades. It offers standard all-wheel drive on all models in the lineup, and RAV4 Hybrid fuel economy comes in at a combined 40 mpg, with up to 41 mpg in the city. This hybrid SUV is one of the few to be able to get over 39 mpg, so Toyota’s electrified RAV4 is pretty impressive. Its interior is also comfortable, spacious, and solid.
The 2022 Volvo S60 Plug-In Hybrid wins Best Luxury Plug-In Hybrid
Pricing: $39,250-$64,800
U.S. News overall score: 8.2/10
This is the S60 PHEV’s first year winning this award—but, it’s also the first year that the S60 is trotting around with its updated T8 hybrid powertrain. The Volvo S60 Plug-In Hybrid boasts a 40-mile EV range (driving in Pure Mode on battery power alone) but, surprisingly, only offers 31 mpg combined. This sedan has available all-wheel drive and a comfortable and premium interior. The 2022 S60 Recharge is one of the cheapest luxury PHEVs
“value, quality, and fuel efficiency”
The 2022 Lexus ES Hybrid wins Best Luxury Hybrid
Pricing: $42,975-$52,155
U.S. News overall score: 8.2/10
The Lexus ES has won U.S. News’ best luxury hybrid award for the fourth year in a row, proving that it’s a serious contender in the electric vehicle market. The 2022 ES Hybrid offers a combined 44 mpg in the city and on the highway, and a premium interior with plenty of standard features. An affordable starting price is surprising considering the Lexus ES’ solid build and classic Lexus (Toyota) reliability.
The 2022 Tesla Model Y wins Best Luxury Electric SUV
Pricing: $58,690-$63,690
U.S. News overall score: 8.3/10
Tesla reinvented the electric car segment with its lineup of fun-to-drive luxury EVs, and the new Model Y crossover offers a lot for its class. The 2022 Model Y Long Range has a great range of up to 330 miles on a single charge, while the Model Y Performance offers about 300 miles of range. This electric SUV can fit up to seven passengers in the cabin and, obviously, offers plenty of tech features. Tesla produces some of the most popular EVs, and the Tesla Y is usually the #1 selling electric car.
The 2022 Kia EV6 wins Best Electric SUV
Pricing: $40,900-$55,900
U.S. News overall score: 8.5/10
The 2022 EV6 brings a fun new design to the EV market; it’s sleek outside, but spacious inside. Its electric powertrain is speedy and silent. The EV6 was used in a recent study about EV range because of its impressive capabilities. Base models can see up to 232 miles of EV range, while even top-level AWD E6 trims see a range of up to 274 miles. And, with a starting price of $40,900, it’s one of the cheapest electric SUVs available.
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV wins Best Plug-In Hybrid
Pricing: $35,400-$43,200
U.S. News overall score: 8.9/10
The 2022 Tucson is an underrated SUV. The PHEV is a strong contender in the hybrid market, and it’s racking up awards all over town. From U.S. News alone, the Tucson PHEV won 2022 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for the Money, 2022 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for Families, and 2022 Best Plug-In Hybrid. This hybrid crossover sees up to 35 mpg combined, which isn’t that great—but better than an all-gas vehicle. It can travel up to 33 miles on battery power alone. The Tucson is a great car with which to start your EV journey.
The 2022 Lucid Air wins Best Luxury Electric Car
Pricing: $77,400-$169,000
U.S. News overall score: 9.1/10
Though some critics can’t recommend the Lucid Air just yet, it’s not stopping the EV world from clambering for the newest, hottest electric luxury car. This sleek newcomer offers up to 1,100 horsepower and can deliver up to a 520-mile range (from different models, of course). The 2022 Air can charge in as little as 13 hours on a Level-2 station. U.S. News calls it “one of the most capable electric cars on the market today.”
Conclusion
U.S. News is one of the most trusted sources for vehicle reviews and ratings, so these hybrids and EVs represent the best of the best. When choosing your first or next electrified car, there’s a lot to consider. Can you make it with an all-electric vehicle, or is a hybrid the better choice for you?
The good news is, any of these vehicles is a great choice.
