Best Hybrid Crossovers and SUVs for 2018

On paper, a hybrid SUV sounds like an ideal blend, a car that offers versatility with a roomy interior and above-average fuel economy. The reality is a bit more complicated. Since SUVs sit higher off the ground, they create more aerodynamic drag than a sleek hybrid hatchback such as the Toyota Prius, which can achieve 50 mpg.

Finding somewhere to locate the hybrid battery pack, especially in an SUV that also needs to offer all-wheel drive, presents an additional challenge for automakers. Rear-seat and cargo space often suffer as a result. And while interest in hybrids tends to rise along with fuel prices, regular crossovers generally carry significantly lower prices without a major penalty at the pump.

That's why you'll find that the field of hybrid SUVs isn't overflowing with options. There are only a few good picks among mainstream models that start at less than $40,000 and a handful more when moving up to the luxury realm of SUVs that cost $50,000 or more. Whether you're looking for maximum fuel efficiency with simple utility, or something with more style and cachet, we've gathered our picks of today's best hybrid SUVs. We give you not only our expert ratings but also our insightful reviews to help you decide the right fit.
Best Hybrid Crossovers and SUVs for 2018
Our editors have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for today's crop of hybrid SUVs. We've put these hybrid SUVs through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors. Our analysis dives deep into trim levels, pricing, features, mpg, safety, interior features, and driving and performance. Is there enough room for our families and our weekend gear? Will our favorite drink fit in the cupholder? We want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

Best Hybrid SUVs
Among SUVs, hybrid technology is no longer limited to premium models, having filtered down to more affordable model lines. Regardless of pedigree, however, SUVs present challenges for fitting and packaging hybrid components such as battery packs and cooling systems, especially in an all-wheel-drive configuration. There aren't many good non-luxury choices on the market, but our testing reveals the best in this limited field.

2019 Mini Countryman Cooper S E Hybrid

The idea seems sound: Take a stylish little SUV, add plug-in hybrid power that in theory could cover city driving on battery power alone, and make it as fun to drive as its gas-only counterparts. And Mini almost got it right. The Countryman Cooper S E delivers quick acceleration ???‚??? faster than other Countryman models ???‚??? and Mini's trademark nimble handling without sacrificing ride comfort. But the hybrid's brakes don't inspire confidence (stopping distance is far too long for a car this small), the cargo area is meager even for this pint-size class, and the gas tank shrinks considerably for hybrid duty. That means you'll be stopping for gas a lot when you're leaning on the gas engine, which is inevitable given the Mini's pitiful electric range of 12 miles or so. Ask us how we know. The Mini hybrid is also fairly expensive, although eligible tax credits can help lessen the sting. Read Full Review

Starting price (including destination fee): $37,750 (less eligible tax credits)
Fuel economy: 27 mpg combined

2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Roomy seating for five, generous cargo space and Toyota's reputation for reliability make the RAV4 a hit even without its 194-horsepower hybrid engine. But factor in 32 mpg combined and quicker acceleration than the gas-only RAV4 (which averages 24-26 mpg), and we think the hybrid is the one to get. Like its standard counterpart, the RAV4 hybrid offers a well-tuned, compliant suspension and a quiet highway ride. There's also a generous package of standard safety aids, including lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. But also like the non-hybrid, the RAV4 tends to feel a little low-rent and basic inside. Look for improvement in the next-generation RAV4. Read Full Review

Starting price (including destination fee): $28,430
Fuel economy: 32 mpg combined

2018 Kia Niro

The Niro is the most affordable way into a hybrid SUV, although its low ground clearance and lack of all-wheel drive make it more of a hatchback than anything else. Whatever you choose to call it, the Niro is an intriguing addition to the hybrid class, offering an impressive range of premium touches in a segment that's not known for luxury. Standard features include dual-zone climate control and Apple CarPlay, while heated seats and advanced driving aids are optional on upper trims. The FE base model is the thriftiest of all, returning 50 mpg. But we like the midlevel EX for its additional features, and it still returns 49 mpg. The Niro is also available as a plug-in hybrid, offering up to 26 electric-only miles per charge. Overall, it's the small cargo area, lackluster powertrain refinement and the unavailability of AWD that keep the Niro from scoring higher. Read Full Review

Starting price (including destination fee): $24,280
Fuel economy: 43-50 mpg combined

Moving up to the luxury class of hybrid SUVs, you'll find models that typically provide all the luxury goodness of their gas-only counterparts with the benefit of increased fuel efficiency. Some even offer three-row seating. Hybrid models, however, do tend to cost several thousand dollars more than conventional alternatives, which may not prove very cost-effective in the long run. And don't expect a luxury hybrid SUV to tow as much as non-hybrids; the systems typically can't handle the stress of pulling large loads.

2019 Volvo XC60 T8

With a handsome interior, luxury touches and a full complement of advanced safety aids, the XC60 T8 comes generously equipped. But this hybrid stands out as much for its knockout style as for its plug-in fuel-saving capability. A 2.0-liter gasoline engine for the front wheels and an electric motor for the rears deliver a combined 400 hp, which is real giddy-up for both city and highway scenarios. Like many hybrids, though, the T8 suffers from poor brake feel, and it also fails to deliver exceptional fuel economy. In our tests, the T8 returned 24.3 mpg (it's rated at 26 mpg), which is on par with the gas-only, and less expensive, T6 model. That said, the T8 also reliably gave us 20 electric-only miles on a full battery charge, so it's worth considering for drivers who only make short hops between charging sessions. Read Full Review

Starting price (including destination fee): $53,895
Fuel economy: 26 mpg combined

2019 Lexus NX 300h

With the benchmark RX 450h as its guide, the Lexus NX 300h occupies a similar niche when it comes to small hybrid luxury SUVs. The NX delivers class-leading fuel economy at 31 mpg, combined with a four-cylinder gas-electric powertrain that won't impress you with speed, but also won't disappoint on the highway or when threading through city traffic. A roomy interior, quiet ride and full suite of advanced safety aids enhance the NX's appeal, while only its below-average cargo capacity and quirky mouselike infotainment interface give us pause. Like the larger RX, the NX smartly balances refinement, comfort and fuel savings. Read Full Review

Starting price (including destination fee): $39,560
Fuel economy: 31 mpg combined

2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e

The regular X5 remains a consistent favorite for us since it combines excellent space and utility with sporty handling and performance. The hybrid xDrive40e is a different story. Still lively and stable, the hybrid X5 suffers from common hybrid ailments: mediocre braking performance, bumpy transitions between electric and gas operation, and steering that feels lifeless. This is a BMW, however, so you still get a top-notch interior and advanced infotainment tech. There's also a nifty hatch split into a liftgate and a short tailgate, which is a handy configuration for daily use. But with just 14 miles of electric range and a $4,250 premium over the gas-only xDrive35i (rated at 20 mpg combined), we're not convinced the X5 hybrid is worth the extra cost. Read Full Review