Best plug-in hybrids
Plug-in hybrids
PHEVs offer the best of both worlds, operating in electric-only mode for local driving while engaging an internal combustion engine (ICE) for longer distances.
Check out the most popular used plug-in hybrids with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Toyota Prius Prime Hybrid
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Eye-catching exterior styling Impressive power, acceleration, and handling Supremely comfortable ride
Cons
Gas engine can be noisy Lackluster cargo space Tight rear headroom
2. Chevrolet Volt
CarMax owner rating
4.7
Pros
Impressive electric range Advanced tech features Maneuverability
Cons
Limited interior space Plastic interior trim Parking challenges due to limited visibility
3. Honda Clarity Plug in Hybrid
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Quick acceleration Long electric driving range The rear seats fold down
Cons
Outdated touchscreen graphics Only two trim options Suspension lacking on bumpy roads
4. BMW X5 Plug In Hybrid
CarMax owner rating
5
Pros
Pleasing hybrid powertrain setup Deluxe interior finishing Spacious for passengers and cargo
Cons
Roof pillar size causes driver blind spots Some rivals offer better small-item storage The wide-set door sills can be frustrating
5. Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-In
CarMax owner rating
4.9
Pros
All-electric range goes up to an estimated 42 miles Peppy acceleration Generous space for cargo and passengers
Cons
Abysmal handling Overly soft pedal feel Obscured side view
6. BMW 530e Plug-in Hybrid
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Quiet, smooth ride Comfortable Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons
Lackluster design Small trunk No parking assistance package
7. Ford Fusion Energi
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Roomy cabin Quiet at highway speeds Impressive standard features
Cons
Grabby brakes Battery limits cargo space Bumpy ride
8. Kia Niro Plug in Hybrid
CarMax owner rating
4.9
Pros
Great range and fuel economy Smooth ride Interesting styling
Cons
Slow acceleration Battery limits cargo space Bland ride
9. Audi Q5 Plug-in Hybrid
CarMax owner rating
3
Pros
Spacious, comfortable interior Lots of high-tech features Some all-electric range
Cons
Doesn’t stand out as much as some rivals Distracting touchscreen interface Automatic transmission is sluggish on downshift
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from January 2024 through June 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
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RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Ready to find your plug-in hybrid?
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.
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