Driving an all-electric car isn’t the only way to save thousands of dollars on gas and contribute to a more sustainable future. Affordable plug-in hybrids play a part in saving the planet.
While full EVs have zero emissions and the best performance and refinement, they aren’t the best choice for drivers who frequently travel long distances or don’t have regular access to home charging. Plug-in hybrids are the best option for those drivers. Accordingly, plug-in hybrids combine the ability to drive emissions-free in many situations with gasoline’s flexibility and quick refueling times.
Why go for a Plug-in Hybrid?
A plug-in hybrid combines the best of electric driving for everyday use. Basically, even the most affordable models have more than enough range to complete the average daily commute. Additionally, these plug-in hybrids have the long-range capability and convenience of efficient gasoline engines.
Because their batteries are typically smaller, they charge much faster than pure EVs.
Affordable Plug-in Hybrids of 2022
If you want to electrify your next car but aren’t ready to go all-electric, a plug-in hybrid may be for you. Besides, there are some remarkably affordable models on the market. Consequently, their affordability is bolstered further by significant federal and local incentives.
We scoured the web for the five most affordable plug-in hybrids and have included pure-EV and total range figures below:
2022 Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid
Cost: $34900
Total range: 420 miles
Electric range: 33 miles
These days, some of the most popular plug-in hybrids are crossovers. Basically, this is not surprising given that crossovers appear to be taking over the world, eventually. The Tucson PHEV 2022 is evidently, one of the best compact crossovers on the market and one of the most affordable. Even in the base SEL trim, it has 19-inch alloy wheels, HTRAC all-wheel drive, and Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car system.
Additionally, the luxurious interior features a massive central touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, and plenty of room for your entire family and belongings. When federal incentives are considered, you have an affordable package that appears and feels far more expensive than it is.
2022 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
Cost: $33940
Total range: 520 miles
Electric range: 37 miles
Generally, the Ford Escape is a perennial best-seller among compact SUVs, and it is nevertheless easy to see why. It provides:
- Variety of features.
- A lot of space.
- Latest technology in a nice package at a reasonable price.
The most appealing Escape in 2022 is the plug-in hybrid version. Additionally, this comes with a 37-mile all-electric range thanks to its 14-kWh battery. Notwithstanding, combined with a powerful but fuel-efficient Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, the range is an impressive 520 miles. As can be seen, standard tech features include Ford’s CoPilot 360 advanced driver assistance suite, including pre-collision assist, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and other features.
The Sync 3 operating system includes:
- A digital instrument cluster.
- A user-friendly touch screen.
- Voice control.
- Amazon Alexa integration.
The Escape plug-in hybrid is also appealing, with Aston Martin-inspired styling wrapping around its spacious cabin.
2022 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
Cost: $29,590
Total range: 560 miles
Electric range: 26 miles
The Niro is halfway between a car and an SUV. This is because it comes with a higher seating position and a boxier body for more passenger and cargo capacity. It has no intentions of driving off-road, but it does have a higher seating position and a boxier body for more passenger and cargo room.
Niro’s long wheelbase makes the rear seat particularly spacious, and the rear seats can be individually slid and tilted. An efficient 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor provides power; the compact 8-kWh battery takes up no space and provides a useful all-electric range of 26 miles.
As you’d expect, the technology is cutting-edge; you can use your phone to monitor your battery level, lock and unlock your car, and even remotely start it. In addition, a standard 8-inch touch screen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and you can control most car functions with your voice.
2022 Toyota Prius Prime
Cost: $28,220
Total range: 640 miles
Electric range: 25 miles
It’s no surprise that a Toyota Prius is on our list of the most affordable plug-in hybrid vehicles, given that the Prius is one of the original hybrids. The Prius, which was introduced in 2000, has always been a leader in fuel economy and low operating costs, thanks to the careful aerodynamic sculpting of its body and the tireless efforts of Toyota’s R&D department.
In many ways, the Prius established the template for all future hybrids: teardrop shape, hatchback body, compact drivetrain, and exceptional economy. The Prius Prime adds the ability to plug in and recharge a larger battery, which provides a significant electric-only range. In addition, Prime’s range of 640 miles demonstrates how efficient the entire package is, not just its electric components.
Combine that capability with Toyota’s traditional rock-solid construction, incredible reliability, and high resale values. You have an incredibly wise purchase – and our second-most-affordable plug-in hybrid for 2022.
2022 Hyundai Ioniq PHEV
Cost: $26,800
Total range: 620 miles
Electric range: 29 miles
Consider Hyundai’s Ioniq to be a Korean Toyota Prius, and you won’t be far off. Both are economical, well-thought-out hatchbacks with compact exteriors but surprisingly spacious interiors; both have sleek aerodynamic profiles that contribute to impressive efficiency.
Inside, you’ll find premium materials, an easy-to-use touch-screen interface, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Moving up from the base SE to the more expensive $29,800 SEL trim level adds additional active safety features, a wireless charging pad for your phone, and luxury features.
The $33,250 Limited trim level adds semi-autonomous highway driving assistance, a sunroof, and a premium audio system.
Here’s more info on top-rated airport parking, the best parking spots in your city, affordable auto insurance, easy Auto refinance, and high-quality car washes near you.
