Finding the right used hybrid car can be a daunting task with over 40 models to choose from. Balancing fuel efficiency, low ownership costs, excellent safety ratings, and strong reliability is crucial for a satisfying ownership experience. To simplify this process, we turn to MotorTrend’s curated list of the best used hybrid cars, taking into account factors such as value, long-term reliability, safety, and overall quality.
MotorTrend’s Methodology: MotorTrend’s Buyer’s Guide understands the significance of a used car purchase, considering various factors like value, long-term reliability, safety, and quality. IntelliChoice, MotorTrend’s partner, conducts extensive research to assess long-term value on 3- to 5-year-old vehicles. This includes evaluating resale value, insurance costs, maintenance expenses, fuel costs, and more. Only models with a Good or Excellent IntelliChoice used car value rating are featured. Additionally, these vehicles must receive a Great quality and reliability rating from J.D. Power, an IIHS Top Safety Pick award, and an NHTSA overall five-star safety rating. The selection also includes cars with under 80,000 miles, aligning with many automaker Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs.
Top Picks for Used Hybrid Cars:
1. 2021-2022 Honda Accord Hybrid
- Pros: Excellent safety, efficiency, and reliability; impressive driving dynamics; faster than the base model.
- Cons: Some tire and wind noise; relatively high pricing; 2020 model lacks the IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
- Specifications:
- Approximate Price: From $26,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Mostly Excellent, some trims Good
- Safety Ratings: 2021 and 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA 5 Stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 44-48/41-47 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 550-614 miles
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: 6.7 seconds
2. 2020-2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
- Pros: Ample power; quiet cabin with a luxury feel; intuitive infotainment; mostly high-quality materials.
- Cons: Brake tuning issues; jerky shifts at parking lot speeds.
- Specifications:
- Approximate Price: From $21,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Excellent or Good (most 2020-2021 models Excellent, all 2022s Good)
- Safety Ratings: 2020-2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA 5 Stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 45-50/51-54 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 620-686 miles
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: 7.6 seconds
3. 2020-2022 Lexus ES300h
- Pros: Elegant styling; spacious rear legroom; improved infotainment for 2022 models; standard driver assists.
- Cons: Touchpad infotainment in earlier models; cabin noise; underwhelming driving experience.
- Specifications:
- Approximate Price: From $30,000 (2020 and 2021); $37,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good or Excellent (except 2020 ES300h Ultra Luxury)
- Safety Ratings: 2020-2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA 5 Stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 43/43-44 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 568-581 miles
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: 7.3 seconds
4. 2020-2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid
- Pros: Plush interior; spacious back seat; standard adaptive cruise control.
- Cons: Stiffer ride in XSE and Touring variants; challenging to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
- Specifications:
- Approximate Price: From $27,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Excellent
- Safety Ratings: 2020-2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick, NHTSA 5 Stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 43/43-44 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 568-581 miles
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: 8.3 seconds
5. 2020-2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid
- Pros: Efficient; safe; reliable; comfortable ride.
- Cons: Dull driving experience; interior tech not as advanced as some competitors.
- Specifications:
- Approximate Price: From $21,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Mostly Excellent, Good for 2021 and 2022 XSE
- Safety Ratings: 2020-2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA 5 Stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 44-51/47-53 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 607-686 miles
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: 7.4 seconds
Conclusion: MotorTrend’s carefully curated list of the best used hybrid cars considers essential factors to guide buyers in making informed decisions. Whether you prioritize efficiency, luxury, or affordability, these top picks offer a combination of safety, reliability, and value for a satisfying ownership experience.