Best Hybrids

It has been 20 years since Hyundai introduced an all-new SUV called the Tucson. It had a slow beginning, but the Tucson has become one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States. The five-passenger crossover is also Hyundai’s top seller, with record yearly sales since the fourth generation was introduced in 2020. The Korean brand expects this success to continue for the significantly updated 2025 Tucson.

While the dimensions remain unchanged, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson features fresh exterior styling and a revised, high-tech interior with a large curved screen encompassing the driver's display and infotainment system. The new display, combined with a complete revamp of the dashboard, center console, and steering wheel, gives the cabin a premium vibe. There are also several new features,t including adjustable regenerative braking on the HEV/PHEV versions, as well as Baby Mode, which optimizes the throttle and braking when you're driving with an infant on board.

The Tucson, which sits between the Kona and Santa Fe in the Hyundai lineup, is one of the few models sold in the U.S. that offers a choice of internal combustion engine (ICE), hybrid (HEV), or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. This flexibility, combined with its spacious interior, expansive cargo bay, and excellent driving characteristics, has helped Tucson maintain its top-selling position. But the competition is fierce in this popular segment, with solid offerings in the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Kia Sportage (the Tucson's corporate cousin).

Toyota is not letting up on gas-electric hybrids. The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia is the newest and 13th in the automaker's lineup.

A midsize five-seater, the Crown Signia is neither the largest nor the fanciest, but for fans of Toyota crossovers and SUVs who find the Sequoia or Grand Highlander hybrid too big or pricey and the RAV4 or the outgoing Venza hybrids too small or unpolished, it may just do the trick.

The Signia — Toyota says the same derives from “insignia” and denotes a signature model for the company — won’t be in dealerships until summer of 2024, so Toyota hasn’t released many details about it. It debuted this week in Los Angeles, where powertrain and trim information was announced.

Appearing more like a lifted wagon than an SUV, the Crown Signia will be marketed as a premium model alongside the Toyota Crown sedan. While the sedan starts at just over $41,000, the Signia version begins at almost $45,000. Initially, it will be offered in just two trim levels: XLE and Limited. There won’t be a turbocharged performance-oriented version like the top-of-the-line Crown Platinum sedan, at least not for the 2025 model year.

With standard electronic all-wheel drive, we expect the Crown Signia to compete against the slightly smaller Subaru Outback as well as various trim levels of other midsize SUVs, including the Kia Sorento and Honda Passport. It may be a bit pricier, but as a hybrid it also is likely to be a lot more fuel-efficient, which could make up for the price difference over time.

All-new Toyota Tacomas don’t come along that often. The 2023 model’s generation dates back to 2016. Despite that, in 2022 the Tacoma outpaced the combined sales of its segment rivals the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier. One reason for the Tacoma’s recent success has been its variety of available models. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma provides even more options with the addition of the TRD PreRunner and Trailhunter trims.

Except for Ford’s smaller Maverick, no other automaker offers a gas-electric hybrid midsize pickup. With more power and torque, and likely better fuel economy than the average midsize pickup, the 2024 Tacoma I-Force Max hybrid builds upon Toyota’s experience with hybrid-electrified drivetrains. And it may well be a game-changer in the segment. Launching this spring, it becomes the standard powertrain in the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models and available as an upgrade in the TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, and Limited trims.

The redesigned Tacoma also addresses shortcomings in previous models. The newly raised front seat and longer steering column improve driving ergonomics. Vehicle dynamics are honed with a smoother-riding multilink coil-spring rear suspension replacing the more basic rear leaf-spring setup in most double cab models. Crisper four-wheel disc brakes and an electronic brake booster replace the previous disc/drum vacuum-booster setup. For those who like to shift their own gears, the new Tacoma still offers a six-speed manual transmission, but improves it with rev-matching for smoother downshifts, anti-stall launch technology, and a clutch start cancel feature that lets you start the pickup in gear on steep terrain. The 2024 Tacoma also offers towing aids such as a trailer brake controller and back-up guidance.

For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has expertly blended highway civility with off-road capability. Land Cruisers are the vehicle of choice for many overlanders looking to explore the backcountry when they need a reliable vehicle that can carry people and their gear through just about any terrain. The latest generation launched as an all-new model last year, bringing more affordability and efficiency to the Land Cruiser line.

The previous-generation Land Cruiser, which left us in 2021, was equipped with a thirsty but powerful V8 engine. This one uses a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic. And like every Land Cruiser that's ever put a tire on U.S. soil, there's a competent 4WD system to take the driver and passengers deep into the rough. The Land Cruiser's body-on-frame construction is like that of a traditional SUV, with an independent suspension up front and a less sophisticated but durable solid axle in the rear. Smooth riding coil springs are at each corner, making this SUV comfortable on almost any street or trail. Lock the rear differential, shift the Land Cruiser into Low Range, and disconnect the front swaybar — the Land Cruiser becomes one very talented SUV in the dirt.

This Land Cruiser's less expensive price point means it will attract more buyers with its off-roading skills. For those looking to combine the Land Cruiser's dirt chops with a bit more luxury, power, and tow capacity, the Lexus GX 550 offers a similar package at a higher price.

The Land Cruiser is smaller and lighter than the previous-generation V8 models, but there's still plenty of room for five people. Because the SUV is a bit shorter and the hybrid system's battery pack takes up some cargo space, there's no room for a third row of seats.

Outfitted with soft-touch materials and modern tech, the modern Toyota has the drivetrain controls placed around the shifter, so everything you need is right at your fingertips. The $57,900 base price of the 1958 model provides skills in the dirt thanks to the standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (like an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with camera. The $63,900 Land Cruiser grade adds more lux and capability, including an electronic swaybar disconnect system for enhanced off-roading, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and rectangular LED headlights.

The 2025 Land Cruiser might have modern mechanicals, but the exterior design harkens back to the cool Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. The whole package should catch the eye of anyone cross-shopping authentically capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender.

Last year, the Hyundai Santa Fe received the most significant redesign in its 24-year history. The boxy yet futuristic exterior stands out from more conventionally styled SUVs, and after a six-year absence, a third row of seats is included. That puts the Santa Fe in a somewhat unusual position in the Hyundai lineup since there's already another three-row SUV: the Palisade.

The Santa Fe measures about 6 inches shorter than the Palisade, making it more maneuverable in tight parking spaces. Inside, it's only marginally smaller for passengers in the third row, but cargo space is reduced by 20%. The Santa Fe is a few thousand dollars less than the Palisade, though, and it's also available with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. If you only need moderate cargo space, the Santa Fe makes better financial sense and is easier to drive.

The Santa Fe only has a handful of rivals among similarly sized three-row SUVs. These include the Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Kia Sorento. The Santa Fe scores points for its more spacious third-row seat, lengthy warranty, and comfortable seats and ride. It receives light criticism for its rough-sounding engine, but that's only when you're accelerating aggressively.

Overall, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is the better choice among moderately sized three-row SUVs. We suggest checking out the Kia Telluride or the related Palisade if you need more capabilities.

The 2024 Lexus TX three-row SUV is an all-new model, slotting above the popular midsize RX. The RX offered a three-row L version for five years, but Lexus dropped the RX-L after 2022, returning to a five-passenger-only RX SUV as it prepared for the TX debut. This was a good move, as the RX-L, built on the standard RX's wheelbase, had only an additional 6 inches of overall length. That meant the third row was not very spacious, and cargo capacity behind the rear seats was cramped. The all-new Lexus TX solves those issues with a longer wheelbase, which results in a spacious cabin, generous cargo capacity with or without rear passengers, and most importantly, a two-passenger third-row seat designed for adults.

Due in dealer showrooms this fall, the TX will challenge other feature-laden three-row SUVs, including the slightly smaller Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90. The MDX doesn't offer a hybrid version, while the TX comes with three powertrain options: a turbocharged four-cylinder for the TX 350, a hybrid-powered TX 500h, and a TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid with an expected all-electric driving range of 33 miles. The Aviator comes in a standard gasoline-powered turbocharged V6 or plug-in hybrid model, and the XC90 gets a four-cylinder turbo, a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder, and a plug-in version of the turbo engine covered in a separate XC90 Recharge review.

Although Lexus hasn't released a full list of features and options by trim level, we expect all versions to be well-equipped luxury SUVs. We do know all-wheel drive is available on all models, the entry-level TX 350 comes in three different trim grades (Standard, Premium, and Luxury), and all versions get a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with the option to add a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. We'll have more information, including driving impressions, later this year.

A new model from Toyota, the 2024 Grand Highlander is a large, midsize SUV with more room inside than either the midsize Toyota Highlander or full-size Toyota Sequoia. The seven- or eight-passenger Grand Highlander offers equivalent or superior third-row and cargo space than the competing Chevrolet Traverse, Kia Telluride, or Volkswagen Atlas.

In a segment not known for outstanding fuel economy, the Grand Highlander offers three powertrains: a 265-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and two hybrid models, one with an estimated 34 mpg combined city/highway rating and another "performance hybrid" rated at 362 hp and capable of going from zero to 60 mph in 6 seconds while still returning 27 mpg.

The Grand Highlander is offered in seven trim levels with a starting price just under $45,000 for the base-level XLE. The range tops out just under $60K for the Hybrid Platinum Max model. All of the latest comfort and tech features are available, including a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of safety and advanced driving-assistance tech.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has the right mix of features and tech options, along with Toyota's history of reliability, to earn a place on any family's shopping list. Look for it in dealer showrooms this summer.

While it may seem like SUVs have taken over the automotive landscape, offering maximum utility to families of all sizes, there are still several midsize sedans available with style, value, and plenty of comfort. The 2025 Honda Accord is one such sedan, a stalwart of the segment that’s stayed at or near the top of its class for decades.

The current Honda Accord is offered in two main configurations, each using a different powertrain. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that’s economical and peppy enough for most daily driving needs. The Accord hybrid uses a 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor and provides a big increase in fuel economy – as high as 48 mpg combined, according to the EPA. Regardless of which powertrain you choose, the Accord has a spacious interior, plenty of trunk space, and a quiet, refined ride. It also has top safety scores from government agencies, along with a long list of standard driver aids.

The Accord isn’t the only appealing midsize sedan, though. The Toyota Camry has recently gone all-hybrid, offering a number of trims with impressive fuel economy and Toyota’s built-in reputation for reliability. The Camry is also offered with all-wheel drive, unlike the Accord. Other rivals worth considering include the Kia K5 and Hyundai Sonata, which both offer powerful optional engines, and the Nissan Altima, which has competitive pricing and some of the most comfortable seats in the class.

The 2025 Kia Niro offers impressive fuel economy and a spacious interior in a compact, well-priced package. Available as a standard hybrid, a plug-in hybrid with 33 miles of EV range, or as a full EV (reviewed separately), the Niro is one of the smallest vehicles Kia offers. Standard Niro hybrid models have fuel economy ratings as high as 53 mpg, while the plug-in hybrid offers enough electric range for most daily commutes.

If you’re looking for value, the Niro’s base trim level delivers plenty, with a price tag under $30K and a long list of standard features. Equipment like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard, along with such safety aids as forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. What’s more, the Niro is spacious inside considering its scant exterior dimensions. Adults will have no trouble fitting in the front and rear seats.

Price-conscious shoppers should know that the Niro’s upper trim levels aren't as much of a bargain. While they are reasonably equipped, the top trim levels don’t offer the same level of refinement as non-hybrid competitors such as the Mazda CX-30 and Honda HR-V. The Toyota Corolla Cross is another small SUV worth considering, with fuel economy ratings as high as 42 mpg and competitive pricing.

Recently redesigned with surprisingly stunning results, Toyota's original hybrid is again an aspirational car. Not a fast sports car or an adventurous off-roader, the 2024 Toyota Prius is nonetheless a car we want to drive again. For starters, it just looks better. Its sleek design sacrifices some interior room for sporty proportions that, with a long front end, low roof, and truncated rear quarters, looks more like something we'd expect from Mazda's house of zoom. The interior, too, feels more normal and not overly wrought with quirky tech design.

Improved body rigidity and handling haven't transformed the Prius into a sports car overnight, but it's no longer a numb embarrassment when pushed through a quick corner, either. More important, the Prius remains a fuel-efficiency champ and an aspirational target for hypermilers. With 49 to 57 mpg, the Prius is both a tech triumph and king of the commute.

Crossovers and SUVs are rapidly replacing sedans and hatchback-like sedans, leaving the Prius with few direct competitors. The Kia Niro hybrid, a small hatch with a bit more cargo space, comes close but falls a bit short in fuel economy. The Hyundai Elantra hybrid is about the same size as the Prius, costs less, and comes close in efficiency. Toyota’s own Corolla hybrid sedan is about the same size and costs less, but it can't match the Prius' liftback versatility, and the hatchback version isn't available as a hybrid.

With its rugged styling, burly engine, and tough underpinnings, the 2025 Toyota Sequoia blends truck-like capability with all the features and comfort of a modern full-size SUV. The result is an extremely capable family vehicle that can also easily tow a sizable trailer or handle a rocky, off-road trail. Larger than its two-row Toyota 4Runner sibling, the three-row Sequoia shares most of its mechanical parts with the full-size Toyota Tundra pickup. Unlike the Tundra, however, all Sequoias are powered by the top-of-the-line hybrid powerplant, which combines a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor. The combination delivers 437 horsepower, making the Sequoia feel extremely capable. Four-wheel-drive models offer dual-range gearing for tricky off-road trails along with electronic aids like crawl control and exterior cameras.

The Sequoia can accommodate up to seven passengers with three rows of seating. Space in the first and second rows is generous, while the third row is tight for adults. The seating materials vary from basic cloth to high-grade leather, with options like heating, ventilation, and massage depending on the trim level. The dashboard is dominated by a 14-inch touchscreen display that comes standard on nearly every trim level and offers both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and a wide range of built-in features. The rest of the controls are user-friendly buttons and knobs that give the cabin a utilitarian look, even on the more luxurious trim levels. Competitors in this class include the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition which both offer similar features and spacious cabins. There's also the Jeep Wagoneer, which blends a top-tier interior with above-average off-road capabilities.

The CX-50 was added to Mazda's lineup in 2023, allowing the company to double-dip in the compact SUV category alongside the existing Mazda CX-5. Both models have a lot to like, though the CX-50 offers a distinct Meridian trim that allows for some moderate off-roading.

The big news for the 2025 Mazda CX-50 is the expansion to include a new hybrid powertrain that promises improved fuel economy over its Base and Turbo siblings. Returning are all things we like, including a sleek and attractive exterior, an interior that could pass for an entry-level luxury SUV, and the kind of sporty performance synonymous with Mazda vehicles.

Unfortunately, the few drawbacks from last year's CX-50 remain the same: a higher price than many rivals, an infotainment touchscreen that only works with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (the native system relies on a dial controller), and a smaller-than-average cargo capacity.

With this in mind, the Mazda CX-50 is a solid choice for fashionable shoppers who emphasize performance and driver engagement. While it may not be as practical as some of its rivals, it is still adequate for most uses. If this compromise is too much for you, we suggest checking out the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4.

At first glance, it's not obvious that the Lexus RX was fully redesigned last year. But underneath its subtle styling changes is a midsize luxury SUV that epitomizes understated luxury. Unlike the previous generation, the latest RX comes only as a five-passenger SUV. The previous model's extended-length RX-L version has been discontinued, with a new three-row Lexus TX model launching in its place.

The two-row RX is spacious, with excellent knee- and headroom for rear-seat passengers. Like all RXes before it, the 2024 RX is tastefully trimmed with high-quality materials and well-placed trim accents that give it a luxurious feel. Previous models suffered from clumsy infotainment systems, but the latest RX has a large touchscreen, making it easier to navigate the various menus.

The RX continues to offer both gas and hybrid models, and this year, the 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid joins the lineup. It delivers up to 37 miles of driving range on battery power alone. The standard hybrid models use their electric motors to help the gas engines deliver exceptional mileage along with the sure-footedness of standard all-wheel drive. Even the base non-hybrid RX 350 delivers good fuel economy thanks to a powerful but efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engine. New last year was the RX 500h, a performance-oriented trim that offers additional horsepower and revised suspension tuning. It's still the quickest and most agile RX available, but it's not particularly sporty. Competitors such as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and BMW X5 deliver more fun behind the wheel, at the expense of some ride comfort. The Genesis GV80 is a closer competitor to the Lexus RX as it prioritizes comfort and practicality over performance, as does the Lincoln Nautilus.

The 2025 Kia Sportage is one of the highest-rated compact SUVs on sale today. Though the 2025 model doesn’t have many upgrades, that’s okay because it’s coming from a strong foundation. Kia introduced the fifth-generation Sportage for the 2023 model year, and its combination of comfort, tech, and space — not to mention three different engines to choose from — stands out in a crowded market.

The Sportage aims for an upmarket vibe. You can tell by the dramatic, swooping headlights and classy rear styling. Inside the cabin, it’s more of the same. Kia uses a creative mix of materials to create a soothing, comfortable interior. While there is a fair bit of affordable plastic to keep costs down, there is also a range of soft surfaces and satisfying metals. To top it off, models with the upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen have a theater-like presentation rarely found in this class.

Space is, of course, a priority for buyers in this realm. The Sportage has a considerable advantage here, with an impressive 39.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the second row of seats. That’s slightly more than the popular Honda CR-V. It’s also more than a Toyota RAV4, and significantly more than a Subaru Forester or Mazda CX-5. All-wheel-drive versions of the Sportage even boast 8.3 inches of ground clearance — while not quite Toyota 4Runner territory, that’s no slouch for the normally tepid Kia.

There’s a lot to like about the 2025 Sportage. This small SUV may surprise you with its ability to stand up to stalwarts in the class, like the RAV4 and CR-V. It doesn’t quite have the extraordinary cost advantage it once did compared to rivals, but the Sportage is packed with benefits.

Now entering its third year of production, the Toyota Crown is somewhat of a hybrid-hybrid, a vehicle that defies typical categorization. The fuel-efficient Crown hybrid has the exterior dimensions and cabin space of a traditional large sedan, but it offers a higher, more SUV-like seating position, providing a better view of the road.

The Crown is built only with all-wheel drive, making it a good choice for buyers who live in temperamental climates. Two hybrid systems are available: the standard Toyota hybrid system on lower trims has a total output of 236 horsepower, and the Hybrid Max system on the top Platinum trim boasts a system total of 340 hp and 400 pound-feet of torque. That's plenty of oomph for this shapely sedan. High-tech display screens include a 12.3-inch configurable driver information display to monitor the Crown's efficiency in real time, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that connects wirelessly to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Although its unusual packaging means the Crown doesn't have many direct competitors, rival hybrid sedans include the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Honda Accord Hybrid. There are also hybrid SUVs such as the Kia Sportage and Honda CR-V for drivers wanting all-wheel drive. But again, none of these options offer quite the same combination of features and characteristics as the 2025 Toyota Crown.

There is no style of vehicle on the road that can move passengers and cargo as comfortably and efficiently as a minivan. However, many consumers have shunned this useful mode of transport in favor of the crossover SUV, and now only a few car companies offer a minivan anymore. Kia has had a minivan in its lineup for over 20 years, and the Korean brand is fully embracing the people mover with the latest version of the Carnival.

While the 2025 Carnival delivers all the desired attributes of a minivan, the company understands its audience. The Carnival carries styling cues that make it look like an SUV, and Kia won't even call it a minivan, using the MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) label instead. But the Carnival is a minivan and a very good one at that.

Kia replaced its aging Sedona with the Carnival in 2022, and for 2025, the Carnival gets a fresh look that further embraces the SUV style. However, as a true minivan, the Carnival features power sliding doors for easy entry and exit, and there's space to seat up to eight passengers comfortably while leaving substantial room for cargo. USB ports at each row, a new rear-seat entertainment system, and a cabin camera and intercom system to help front passengers keep tabs on what's happening in the rear seats help to set the Carnival apart from the competition.

The most significant upgrade to the 2025 Carnival is the new hybrid powertrain. The hybrid is rated up to 34 mpg, helping it to compete with the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid model, and the Toyota Sienna, which is only available as a hybrid. The Honda Odyssey rounds out the limited minivan options, and while it's not available as a hybrid, it is still an excellent package.

Toyota's entry in the ever-growing subcompact SUV sweepstakes is the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross, a small crossover based on the long-running Corolla sedan. You wonder why Toyota didn't think of this before: Package all the best aspects of the Corolla into a taller and longer SUV body, but still smaller and more affordable than a RAV4.

Actually, Toyota did think of this before. The quirky CH-R was the first example of this thought exercise, but ultimately it was too weird to last. The Corolla Cross picks up the thread, though, with a more conventional design, more power, and more versatility. It offers a little something for everyone, with optional all-wheel drive, an available hybrid model, and an expanding list of features — heated seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, leather upholstery — as you move up the trim levels. A generous bundle of driver-assist features is included in higher trims.

The Corolla Cross isn't especially inspiring to drive, and that's why competitors such as the Honda HR-V and Kia Niro Hybrid are also worth a look. The Corolla Cross hybrid adds a little punch, though, with a gas-electric powertrain good for nearly 200 horsepower, and a standard all-wheel-drive system that livens up handling. Other compelling alternatives include the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Nissan Kicks.

Ask buyers what they expect in a full-size truck, and you'll hear a familiar refrain: Big engine. Commanding power. Strong towing and payload capability. Roomy cabin. The 2025 Toyota Tundra has all these, yet it's largely overshadowed by the traditional Detroit trio: Chevy, Ford, Ram. Indeed, those brands had built a loyal customer base decades before the Tundra arrived on U.S. shores. But the Tundra has been here for a quarter of a century now, and has had plenty of time to make its case.

For the most part, it has. Its 12,000-pound towing capacity trails most of its rivals, but is still plenty for pulling big loads. Its two engines — a standard V6 and a hybrid version of the same — don't offer as much variety as the Ford F-150's six-engine lineup, but both engines are punchy and offer the best ratio of power and efficiency. The Tundra's 389-horsepower hybrid gets up to 22 mpg in combined city and highway driving, while the F150 hybrid leads the class at 23 mpg.

So, while the Tundra doesn't claim the biggest numbers, it's almost every bit as capable, especially off-road. If there's one thing Toyota doesn't need to prove, it's capability in the dirt, mud, and desert. For 2025, the Tundra even pays a little homage to its desert-racing roots with a new TRD Rally package. Otherwise, the Tundra carries over unchanged, facing the same challenges from its competitors: the more polished and smooth-riding Ram 1500, the more efficient and brawnier Ford F-150, and the more diverse variety of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. If you look beyond the numbers, though, the Tundra reveals plenty of depth.