Get your automotive data ad-free: become a premium member today!
Three-quarter front view of a 2023 blue Kia Niro PHEV

Buyers Guide: The Best Plug-In Hybrids for 2023

Models That Offer Excellent Range, Flexibility, and Features

The automotive world is shifting dramatically toward electrification, and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) are at the forefront of this change. These innovative vehicles offer the best of both worlds: an electric vehicle’s efficiency and environmental benefits combined with the range and flexibility of a gasoline-powered car.

The top contenders for 2023, each offering unique features and benefits to suit diverse needs and preferences. From family-friendly options to luxury powerhouses, explore the best plug-in hybrid vehicles on the market and find the perfect fit for your next adventure. We will explore some of PHEVs, highlighting their best attributes.

  1. 2023 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV
  2. 2023 Toyota Prius Prime
  3. 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
  4. 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge T8 
  5. 2023 Kia Sorento PHEV
  6. 2023 BMW 330e
  7. 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime
  8. 2023 Kia Niro PHEV 
  9. 2023 Ford Escape PHEV
  10. 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

2023 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV

Front view of a 2023 gray Chrysler Pacifica PHEV

Via Stellantis

Specifications

  • MSRP: $44,900 USD / $53,495 CAD
  • Engine: 3.6L V6 + Electric Motor
  • Power / Torque: 287 hp / 262 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: FWD
  • 0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 82 MPGe combined / 8.2L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

With an all-electric range of up to 32 miles and an EPA-estimated 82 MPGe combined, the Chrysler Pacifica PHEV is a family-friendly minivan that is as efficient and useful as an electric car.

The Pacifica PHEV gets excellent gas mileage and has many great features. It has comfy seats for up to seven people, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and plenty of advanced safety features.

2023 Toyota Prius Prime

Side angle of a 2023 gray Toyota Prius Prime

Via Toyota

Specifications

  • MSRP: $27,650 USD / $36,650 CAD
  • Engine: 2.0L I4 + 2 Electric Motors
  • Battery: 13.6 kWh Lithium Ion
  • Power / Torque: 220 hp / 139 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: FWD
  • 0-60 mph: 6.7 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 54 MPG combined / 4.5L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

The “one-motion” profile of the new Prius is wider and lower than that of the previous model. The Prius Prime can be charged as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) to make it go farther on electric power alone. 

The 2.0L engine in the Prius Prime is more powerful, and you can add an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that uses an electric motor to power the back wheels when you need more grip.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 white Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Via Autotrader

Specifications

  • MSRP: $40,345 USD / $44,198 CAD
  • Engine: 2.4L I4 + 2 Electric Motors
  • Power / Torque: 248 hp / 332 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: AWD
  • 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 67 MPGe combined / 7.4L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 5-Year / 60,000-Mile 

Our Take

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV stands out among plug-in hybrid SUVs thanks to its appealing blend of efficiency, practicality, and price. Thanks to its impressive electric range of 24 miles, you can drive it without emitting harmful pollutants for most daily journeys. The 2.4L gasoline engine will provide more than enough power for longer trips. 

The Outlander PHEV is an impressive engineering work, offering seven passengers enough seating, a large trunk, and a comfortable interior.

2023 Volvo S60 Recharge T8

Front view of a 2023 gray Volvo S60 Recharge T8

Via Volvo

Specifications

  • MSRP: $52,300 USD / $59,950 CAD
  • Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged I4 + Electric Motor
  • Power / Torque: 455 hp / 523 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: AWD
  • 0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 69 MPGe combined / 7.6L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50000-Mile 

Our Take

Power, efficiency, and elegance come together in the Volvo S60 Recharge T8. It offers 22 miles of electric power alone, and the EPA estimates a combined 31 mpg. With Pilot Assist and the Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, you get cutting-edge safety features.

The Volvo S60 Recharge T8 is an excellent option for those seeking a car with everything, thanks to its plush interior, performance, and remarkable fuel economy.

2023 Kia Sorento PHEV

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 white Kia Sorento PHEV

Via Kia

Specifications

  • MSRP: $51,300 USD / $57,000 CAD
  • Engine: 1.6L Turbocharged I4 + Electric Motor
  • Power / Torque: 261 hp / 258 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: AWD
  • 0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 79 MPGe combined / 6.9L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 5-year/ 60,000-Mile

Our Take

An ideal vehicle for eco-friendly errands and commutes, the 2023 Kia Sorento PHEV combines practicality with an impressive 32 miles of all-electric driving range. An astounding 79 MPGe combined is the result of its efficient hybrid technology.

Thanks to the available third-row seat, the Sorento PHEV has an accommodating cabin with seven people. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and advanced driver-assistance functions are standard equipment.

2023 BMW 330e 

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 gray BMW 330e

Via BMW 

Specifications

  • MSRP: $44,900 USD / $53,900 CAD
  • Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged I4 + Electric Motor
  • Power / Torque: 288 hp / 310 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 5.9 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 75 MPGe combined / 15.6L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

The 2023 BMW 330e combines electric vehicle efficiency with gas-powered performance. The 330e can be driven emissions-free for short excursions thanks to its all-electric range of up to 22 miles.

As standard equipment, the 330e includes a motorized sunroof, a digital instrument cluster, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Everyone riding in the front or back will have plenty of room to stretch out and relax in the roomy cabin. 

2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime

Side view of a 2023 red Toyota RAV4 Prime

Via Toyota

Specifications

  • MSRP: $43,400 USD /  $49,900 CAD
  • Powertrain: 2.5L I4 + 2 Electric Motors
  • Power / Torque: 230 hp / 288 lb-ft
  • Transmission: AWD
  • 0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 94 MPGe / 6.0L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3 years /  36,000 miles 

Our Take

With an estimated 42 miles of pure electric power, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime stands out thanks to its electric driving range. With its effective hybrid powertrain, the RAV4 Prime can go more than 600 miles on a single charge.

This Toyota SUV’s roomy and well-appointed cabin is ideal for carrying large families. Thanks to its cutting-edge electronics and safety features, you can drive with complete peace of mind.

2023 Kia Niro PHEV

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 blue Kia Niro PHEV

Via Kia

Specifications

  • MSRP: $26,590 USD /  $29,995 CAD
  • Powertrain: 1.6L I4 + 2 Electric Motors
  • Power / Torque: 180 hp / 195 lb-ft
  • Transmission: FWD
  • 0-60 mph: 7.3 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 105 MPGe / 4.8L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 5 years /  60,000 miles 

Our Take

The 2023 Kia Niro PHEV offers a spacious, comfortable interior, a long electric range, and affordability. The powertrain comprises a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine and a 60.4-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, achieving an all-electric range of 33 miles. It also gets an EPA-estimated 108 MPGe in combined driving.

Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. 

2023 Ford Escape PHEV

Front view of a 2023 blue Ford Escape PHEV

Via Ford

Specifications

  • MSRP: $41,995 USD /  $47,500 CAD
  • Powertrain: 2.5L I4 + Electric Motor
  • Power / Torque: 210 hp / 155 lb-ft
  • Transmission: FWD
  • 0-60 mph: 7.8 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 101 MPGe / 5.9L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 5 years /  60,000 miles 

Our Take

The 2023 Ford Escape PHEV offers an impressive all-electric range, class-leading fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. Its 2.5L hybrid engine and 14.4 kWh battery achieve a range of 37 miles on electric power alone. It boasts a combined fuel economy of 44 mpg.

The standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert and 13.2″ SYNC® 4.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

Three-quarter rear view of a 2023 gray Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

Via Hyundai

Specifications

  • MSRP: $42,410 USD /  $47,500 CAD
  • Powertrain: 1.6L Turbocharged I4 + Electric Motor
  • Power / Torque: 261 hp / 195 lb-ft
  • Transmission: AWD
  • 0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 76 MPGe / 7.1L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 5 years /  60,000 miles 

Our Take

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a 30-mile all-electric range to let you tackle daily commutes without gas. You’ll also appreciate the impressive 76 MPGe fuel economy.

Its comfortable and spacious cabin boasts ample cargo space for family adventures. Highlighting technology is the standard 12.3-inch digital gauge display and 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Safety features include Highway Driving Assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.