I’m a Car Expert: 4 Hybrid Vehicles I’d Consider Buying and Why They’re Worth It

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Hybrid cars are becoming more popular. But how can car buyers know which ones are worth the money? Luckily, GOBankingRates consulted experts to find out.

For the following list of hybrid vehicles worth buying, cars were compared on reliability, maintenance ease, actual fuel economy improvements and total value at the price point.

Also see five hybrid vehicles that aren’t worth the money.

Best Compact Hybrid Sedan: Toyota Corolla 

• 2025 starting MSRP: $23,825

The Corolla has dominated compact car sales worldwide for decades, and the hybrid version only improves on the original. 

“With fuel efficiency up to 50 miles per gallon, the Corolla hybrid combines dependable operation, outstanding fuel efficiency and simple design,” said Alan Gelfand, who has three decades’ worth of experience running a mechanic shop at German Car Depot.

He’s not the only auto expert who raves about the Corolla hybrid. Alex Black, owner of vehicle research platform EpicVIN, also pointed to it as the best value option. “It is dead simple, inexpensive to operate, as solid as they come and simple to replace parts. It may not be glamorous, but if you need a car that lasts and economizes, this one is the best,” he said.

Best Midsize Hybrid Sedan: Honda Accord

• 2025 starting MSRP: $28,295

The larger Accord achieves nearly the same fuel efficiency at up to 48 mpg, with a fun-to-drive 204 horsepower. 

“The Accord Hybrid delivers a spacious interior and smooth driving dynamics that match entry-level luxury cars,” Gelfand said.

Best Luxury Hybrid Sedan: Lexus ES 300h

• 2025 starting MSRP: $44,735

Want luxury looks and features without compromising on reliability?

Toyota brings its signature dependability to its upscale Lexus line. Black absolutely loves the ES 300h. “It’s essentially a Camry Hybrid in a business suit. Smoothest ride going, quiet interior and Lexus-quality construction,” he said.

Gelfand added that the ES 300h can survive for 200,000 miles and beyond. “The ES 300h reaches 43-45 mpg on average, and its hybrid parts demonstrate exceptional reliability,” he said.

Best Hybrid SUV: Toyota RAV4 (and Prime)

• 2025 RAV4 starting MSRP: $32,300
• 2025 Prime starting MSRP: $44,265

Toyota makes both a traditional hybrid RAV4 and a plug-in hybrid Prime model that runs on an all-electric engine with a gas backup for road trips and quick fill-ups. 

The hybrid version achieves around 38 mpg, and the Prime version has a battery range of 42 electric-only miles. “Maintenance of these models remains uncomplicated for users,” Gelfand said. “The eCVT system operating throughout Toyota hybrid models eliminates traditional transmission issues.”

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