The hybrid revolution is alive and well again, with buyers scouring the market for the best plug-in hybrid in 2022. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a great option for people who want the convenience of all-electric driving plus the peace of mind of a gas engine for backup. Keep reading to learn about the best plug-in hybrids under $35,000, or check out all the best electric cars in 2022 to see a full range of electrified options.
Is it worth buying a plug-in hybrid instead of a hybrid or EV?
Why choose a PHEV or a typical hybrid or an electric car? Plug-in hybrids are cheaper to run than a conventional petrol car and offer a more flexible power balance. Driving in full EV mode lets you enjoy the good feeling of eco-friendly cruising, but hybrid mode kicks in when the juice runs out. A PHEV really is the best of both worlds if you can’t commit to an EV.
5. The 2022 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid starts at $33,075
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US news score: N/A
EV Range: 40 miles all-electric range
The 2022 Escape PHEV is one of the plug-in hybrids with the best range. You should be able to cruise up to 40 miles on a full charge as long as you listen to the right music. The Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid is sharp and comfortable, and even qualifies for extra incentives. But there are some questions about whether federal PHEV tax credits help everyone equally.
4. The Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid 2022 starts at $29,590
US News Score: N/A
EV Range: 26 miles all-electric range
The 2022 Niro comes in many forms, but the plug-in hybrid is perhaps the most versatile. It offers an EV range of 26 miles and a combined fuel economy of 105 MPGe (gas/electric). This is easily one of the best plug-in hybrids under $40,000 for convenience and affordability, but the back seat is cramped and there’s not as much cargo space as you’d like. Shopping for the Niro PHEV is also a great way to find some of the best plug-in hybrid deals.
3. The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid starts at $26,800
US news score: N/A
EV Range: 29 miles all-electric range
The 2022 Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid sedan is the cheapest PHEV on this list and one of the most affordable PHEV cars money can buy. It’s the best little plug-in hybrid car in terms of gas mileage and EV range, but the handling leaves a lot to be desired. The Ioniq is good for 119 MPGe in total and can cruise 29 miles on battery power alone. Overall, it’s one of the best values for a plug-in hybrid.
2. The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime Hybrid-Electric Car starts at $28,220
US News Score: 7.7/10
EV Range: 25 miles all-electric range
Prius is the name of the game when it comes to electrification. It should come as no surprise that the Prius 2022 was named best hybrid car in 2022 and the Prius Prime 2022 one of the best plug-in hybrid hatchbacks. The Prime is slightly underpowered compared to the Toyota Camry Hybrid, but its ability to drive up to 25 miles in EV mode is what sets it apart. Toyota’s electric hatchback is one of the most reliable plug-in hybrid cars for the money.
1. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid starts at $34,900
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US news score: 8.9/10
EV Range: 33 miles all-electric range
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV has received critical acclaim and is ranked #1 American news’ list of the best plug-in hybrids in 2022. USN also named Tucson the best plug-in hybrid SUV for the money, and it is considered the best PHEV under $40,000. This crossover is agile and fun to drive and uses quality materials. The 2022 Tucson Plug-In Hybrid is the cheapest PHEV in the top five, making this SUV a steal.
Looking for something cheaper? Consider a used hybrid, PHEV or electric car
Supply chain issues, chip shortages and natural inflation have led to rapidly rising new car prices, so you may not be able to find any of these affordable plug-in hybrid vehicles for the starting prices listed here. But fear not: Explore eight of the most affordable used electric cars to save on car prices and on natural gas.
RELATED: The 2022 Volvo S60 PHEV wins Best Luxury Plug-in Hybrid Award
