Illustration of transparent HEV car outline with powertrain components featured

Standard hybrid

GasolineElectricNo plug

Hybrid electric vehicles, or HEVs, operate in electric-only mode at low speeds and use an internal combustion engine (ICE) beyond that, but they never need to be plugged in.

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Is a standard hybrid right for you?

An HEV could be right for you if you want improved fuel economy over a traditional ICE-only vehicle but don’t want to worry about charging.

Pros

Fuel-efficient
Never need to plug-in
Readily available

Cons

Some have an odd driving feel
Electric-only for very short distances
Greater mechanical complexity

Standard hybrids near you

Best used hybrids

Wondering which standard hybrids are driver favorites? Check out the top 3 from the 10 most popular EVs with CarMax customers.

See the top 10

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1. Toyota Prius

CarMax owner rating

Price range*

$12,599—$36,998

Estimated combined MPG

49 MPG

RepairPal reliability rating

4.5 out of 5

Shop Prius models See more details

2. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

CarMax owner rating

Price range*

$19,998—$47,998

Estimated combined MPG

40 MPG

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

Excellent fuel economy estimates
Smooth ride
Good cargo capacity

Cons

Uncomfortable front seats
Mushy brake pedal
Unpleasant engine noise

Shop RAV4 Hybrid models See more details

3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

CarMax owner rating

Price range*

$24,998—$55,998

Estimated combined MPG

35 MPG

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

Welcome hybrid fuel figures
Generously equipped with standard and available driver assistance
Pleasant ride experience

Cons

Tight third-row dimensions
Prominent engine noise at full power
Limited cargo space

Shop Highlander Hybrid models See more details

See the top 10

Learn more about standard hybrid vehicles

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Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, Electric Vehicle: What's the Difference?

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Reviews And Comparisons

Ask the Expert: Top 5 Affordable Used Hybrids

The automotive experts at Edmunds identify five used hybrid vehicles, even down to the specific model year, that can help you save gas money while fitting into a tight budget too. Check out these hybrid picks from Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia.

Trends

Should You Buy a Hybrid SUV?

If you're wondering whether a hybrid SUV is right for you, read on. We cover the pros and cons of hybrids, and what you should be looking for as you shop. We've also included some great hybrid SUVs to add to your short list.

Trends

Should You Buy an Electric Car?

Wondering if you should buy an electric car? Take a look at our EV buying guide — it's full of useful tips and recommendations to help your search.

Trends

What Is a Hybrid?

We take a look at what a hybrid it is, how the vehicles have changed, and why they might be a good choice for you.

Want to view more trending articles?

Explore other EV types

* Price excludes sales tax, title and registration fees, and $199 service fee (not required by law). Price assumes that final purchase will be made in the State of WI, unless vehicle is non-transferable. Vehicle subject to prior sale. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Editorial content contained on this page comes from Edmunds.com, Inc., a subsidiary of CarMax Enterprise Service, LLC, and information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.