8 2025 Hybrids the Middle Class Should Consider Buying
Written by
Heather Altamirano
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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If you’re tired of filling up at the pump and screaming about the high cost of gas, a hybrid could be a smart choice — especially if you’re not ready for a full-on electric vehicle.
According to Ramsey Solutions, there are several factors for the high gas costs, including inflation, global conflicts, taxes, and crude oil prices, and it’s unclear if gas prices will drop.
If you’re ready to ditch your gas car for a more fuel-efficient vehicle, there are plenty of affordable options ideal for middle-class buyers. Here are eight compelling 2025 choices to consider.
Toyota Corolla
- Starting price: $24,760
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, reliable hybrid, the Toyota Corolla takes the top spot for the most affordable hybrid, per MotorTrend.
The four-door sedan gets up to 53 mpg, which rivals the Prius, and has several safety features. The downside is it’s a bit slow but is highly fuel efficient, which means more money in your pocket.
Hyundai Elantra
- Starting price: $26,250
With its ability to go a total range of 670 miles and up to 54 mpg combined, the 2025 Hyundai Elantra gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
Other perks include a roomy interior, the latest tech and safety features and a chic design. Plus, there’s a big savings. According to MotorTrend, consumers can save around $800 a year on gas.
Ford Maverick
- Starting price: $27,890
You can’t beat a truck when it comes to everyday practical use and versatility, and the Ford Maverick is a standout choice.
While the Maverick might be on the smaller side, the compact pickup packs a lot of punch with features like tremor, which allows great off-roading abilities, 4K tow package, and a quick acceleration time. In addition, the Maverick has been the winner of the Kelly Blue Book Best Buy Award for the last three years in a row.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2025 Maverick can get up to 37 mpg combined for front-drive or 36 mpg combined for all-wheel drive.
Kia Niro
- Starting price: $28,265
The Kia Niro is a compact hatchback that is self-charging and is equipped to go 53 mpg in a city and 54 mpg on a highway.
The Niro has a spacious inside and sleek design, and it is ideal for budget-conscious consumers wanting to cut back on spending so much money on gas. You can save an average of $800 a year, per MotorTrend.
Honda Civic
- Starting price: $29,945
The Honda Civic hybrid is an ideal mix of practicality, style and reliability. Besides offering an amazing fuel economy at 50/47 mpg, the Civic delivers a powerful performance and a savings of $750 a year on gas, according to MotorTrend.
Toyota Prius
- Starting price: $30,000
The Toyota Prius remains popular with buyers due to its longstanding and reliable reputation.
“It’s been the go-to hybrid forever, and the 2025 version is just as solid. It’s crazy efficient–like, 57 mpg city,” said Rob Dillan, automotive expert and founder of EVhype.
“Plus, it’s got all the safety stuff you’d expect these days: adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, the works. Nothing flashy, but if you want something reliable that sips gas and just works, this one’s it.”
Hyundai Tucson
- Starting price: $34,510
According to Dillan, the Hyundai Tucson hybrid is the “underdog” in its group but is a “sleeper hit.” “The design is sharp — it actually looks good — and it’s really comfortable to drive. The tech is up-to-date, and you know Hyundai’s warranty is one of the best in the game, so you’re covered for years,” he explained.
“It’s not the most exciting car, but it’s super practical and still stylish enough to feel good driving it.”
Honda Accord
- Starting price: $34,750
The Honda Accord is a good choice if you’re looking for a durable car with great quality overall, per Dillan. “I’ve always liked the Accord, and the hybrid version is no exception,” he stated. “It’s comfortable, roomy and drives smoothly. Plus, it’s got great mileage — 51 mpg in the city, which is nuts for a sedan this size.
“The tech is solid, too, and it’s one of those cars that just feels like a good investment, especially since hybrids tend to hold their value pretty well.”
The Bottom Line
A hybrid vehicle is an affordable alternative to an EV and is versatile and fun to drive while saving you money and emitting fewer greenhouse gases.
“The tax incentives are real. Depending on where you live, you can knock a decent chunk off the cost,” Dillan said. “They hold their value better than gas-only cars. So even if you trade it in later, you’ll likely come out ahead.”
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