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Deciding among electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles can be challenging. See the pros and cons to determine which is more suitable for you.
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Published inLead Writer & Content Strategist+ moreIf you want to reduce your environmental impact on the road, you’ve likely considered switching to an all-electric, hybrid electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. But when it comes to electric vs. hybrid or hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid, which of these is more suitable for you? Discover how each of these vehicles works — as well as their unique advantages and drawbacks.
All-electric vehicles, sometimes referred to as battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), don’t use any gasoline at all, so you never have to make a trip to the pump. Instead, they always run in electric mode, with one or more electric motors, which rely on a powerful battery. Depending on the make and model, you can drive from at least 150 to about 400 miles on a single charge, according to the U.S. Department of Energy
If you’re a homeowner, you can charge your battery by connecting to one of your regular outdoor or garage outlets — or for faster charging, install a Level 2 charging station right in your own driveway or garage. You may also be able to charge up at your workplace. If you rent from a property that offers EV charging stations, you can use those (note: there might be an extra fee). Otherwise, you’ll need to rely on one of the more than 190,000 public charging ports across the country.
With prices starting at about $30,000, the upfront cost is generally higher for EVs than other types of vehicles. However, electric vehicles have fewer parts that require upkeep, so EV maintenance and repair tends to cost less over the life of the car. Because electricity is cheaper than gas or diesel, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, EVs are also less costly to power.
The most eco-friendly choice, with zero tailpipe emissions.
Long battery life of a decade or more under normal driving conditions.
Electricity is cheaper than gas or diesel.
Lower maintenance costs than other vehicle types.
All EVs have regenerative braking, which makes them even more efficient.
Vehicles have instant torque, which makes acceleration quiet and fast.
Some new models qualify for an EV tax credit of up to $7,500, although this credit will end for EVs purchased after September 30, .
You may be able to charge your car at home or work.
Higher upfront price (EVs are more expensive than gas vehicles), and EV auto insurance premiums may be higher.
It may be hard finding a place to charge in certain locations.
Charging takes a lot more time than gassing up.
Replacing an EV battery can be expensive, but most EVs have battery warranties of at least eight years or 100,000 miles.
Temperature extremes can reduce your driving range on a charge.
Regenerative braking and the weight of the vehicle usually result in faster tire wear (compared to a gas car).
The environmental impact of disposing of EV batteries is not yet fully understood.
» MORE: EV Buying Guide: Know the Basics
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HEVs get their power from a gas (or diesel) internal combustion engine, and either one or more electric motors that draw their power from energy stored in a battery. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and through the engine itself, rather than plugging in. Full HEVs can run on battery power alone only for short distances and at slower speeds — improving your fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic — but not so much on the highway. You’ll still have to gas up to keep your car fueled — and most of the time, it’s still gas that powers your car.
HEVs drive much like conventional gas-powered cars. This tried-and-true technology has been available for over two decades. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider when comparing hybrid vs. electric or hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid.
Typically a lower sticker price than all-electric vehicles.
There’s no need to charge the vehicle.
Better fuel economy than regular gas-powered vehicles, particularly in city driving.
Lower emissions than regular gas-powered vehicles.
Regenerative braking, which recharges the hybrid’s battery.
Long-lasting batteries, with a life of about 10 years or more.
Battery is smaller and cheaper to replace than a plug-in hybrid or EV battery.
Typically more powerful than their traditional gas-powered equivalent vehicles.
Generally a higher sticker price than a conventional gas vehicle.
Not eligible for federal tax benefits, which are set to end as of September 30, .
Still produces emissions, and runs on gas in most conditions — runs solely on battery power for only short distances.
While less maintenance may be required, hybrids still require oil changes and basic maintenance.
Although batteries are long-lasting and cheaper than EV batteries, they’re still expensive to replace (when compared to a gas vehicle’s battery). However, most are under warranty for at least eight years or 100,000 miles.
The environmental impact of disposing of batteries is not yet fully understood.
Like HEVs, plug-in hybrids use both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery. Unlike regular hybrids, however, plug-in hybrids can often operate in all-electric mode for extended periods, and are able to go for approximately 20 to 40 miles on electricity alone. This means as long as you keep your battery charged, you may never have to use gas at all for relatively short trips.
If the battery runs out while you’re driving, the gas engine kicks in, and the car will run like a conventional gas-powered vehicle for another 300 to 500 miles. Typically, plug-in hybrids have larger, more powerful batteries and engines than regular hybrids.
With a plug-in hybrid, you can charge the battery externally by plugging into a regular 110-volt household outlet — or for faster Level 2 charging, a 240-volt charging unit, which you can install at home. Your place of employment may also have a charging station, or there may be public charging stations in your area. These are the same chargers that electric vehicles use.
In addition to using an external charge, the batteries can also charge through the engine’s power, using regenerative braking.
Lower overall fuel costs because the vehicle runs on both a battery (like an electric vehicle) and gas.
Better mileage than traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Lower emissions than traditional gas-powered vehicles — and zero emissions when driving in all-electric mode.
Ability to drive completely in all-electric mode for as much as 20 to 40 miles, depending on make and model.
You may be able to charge your car at home or work.
Batteries can last about 10 years or more, under normal driving conditions.
Some models are eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, although this credit will end for PHEVs purchased after September 30, .
Typically less expensive to maintain than traditional gas-powered cars.
Upfront price is higher than hybrids and gas-powered cars.
Still produces some emissions, unless you’re in all-electric mode.
Certain maintenance and repairs may be more costly due to mechanical complexity.
Batteries are expensive if you need to replace one, but most have a warranty of at least eight years or 100,000 miles.
Charging is time-consuming.
Some plug-in hybrids get worse mileage than a gas-powered car if you don’t plug them in.
Because PHEVs are so new, it’s still uncertain what their resale value will be.
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The environmental impact of disposing of batteries is not yet fully understood.
» MORE: How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Which vehicle type is better for you ultimately depends on your budget, your access to charging places, the type of driving you do and how concerned you are with whether your car gives off tailpipe emissions. Be aware that the trade-off for zero tailpipe emissions is time spent charging up — which always takes longer than gassing up, even if you can charge at home. If you don’t have that time to spare, a hybrid electric vehicle might be a preferable choice.
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As fuel prices fluctuate, and as more of us look to reduce our carbon footprints, it’s no surprise that sales of electrified vehicles in America are rising quickly. What’s interesting is that, while sales of hybrid vehicles and pure-electric vehicles have risen sharply, sales growth for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have not grown nearly as fast. Improved charging infrastructure and longer-range options are making full-electric cars a viable option for more drivers, while their price premium is also coming down.
Still, for many drivers who want the option of driving emissions-free, but frequently need to take longer trips, a plug-in hybrid vehicle offers the best of both worlds: silent, super-clean commuting on a daily basis, with the ability to lean into a gasoline motor when significant range is needed. There are many great options available. Here are some of the most popular plug-in hybrids available today.
All mileage mentioned are EPA estimates.
Lexus’ compact luxury SUV, the NX, is available with a number of drivetrains, including a conventional gas engine (NX250), hybrid (NX350), and the new plug-in hybrid NX450h+. Not only is the all-wheel drive NX450h the most powerful version of the NX, with 304 total horsepower, it’s also the most efficient model.
Its full-electric driving range of 37 miles is a very impressive. You will likely do most of your commuting without ever using the gasoline engine. Plus, you get all of the usual Lexus goodies: a gorgeous, luxurious interior, distinctive styling, and a great suite of safety and driver assist features to keep you and your family safe.
The starting price is high for a relatively compact SUV, but you get a lot for your money and, as of this writing, the NX is eligible for state and federal incentives.
Starting MSRP: $62,415
EPA Estimated MPGe: 84
Updated for , the Kia Sportage is one of the best-looking and most versatile compact SUVs on the market. The regular Sportage is one of our favorite small SUVs thanks to its upscale styling, premium interior, excellent technology and safety systems. It has a full suite of tech features, and a new choice of trims that offer you the ability to outfit the Sportage like a luxury car or an off-road adventurer.
The plug-in hybrid Sportage comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder combined with an electric motor. Total power output is an impressive 261 horsepower, and you get 34 miles of all-electric driving range. Plus, you’ll have a lot of fun behind the wheel, as the Sportage is a very entertaining SUV to drive.
Starting MSRP: $39,890
EPA Estimated MPGe: 84
Hyundai’s good-looking Tucson PHEV is one of the best compact crossovers as well as being one of the most affordable. It has distinctive styling, plenty of space, great tech, and a reasonable price.
Even in its least expensive SEL trim, the Tucson PHEV comes loaded with 19-inch alloy wheels, HTRAC all-wheel drive, and Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car system. The interior has a giant central touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, and there’s plenty of space for your whole family and their stuff.
A powerful 1.6-liter turbo engine and electric motor deliver 268 horsepower, and you can cruise on electric power alone for 32 miles.
Starting MSRP: $39,730
EPA Estimated MPGe: 80
Completely redesigned in , the Niro is halfway between a car and a crossover. It has no pretentions of going off-road, but has a higher seating position and a roomy body for passengers and cargo room. A long wheelbase makes the rear seat very spacious, and you can slide and tilt the rear seats individually. Exterior styling is distinctive, too, looking like no other hatchback on the road.
Power is delivered by an efficient 1.6-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor. Total system output is 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, and the 11.1-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery provides an all-electric range of 33 miles.
The tech is right up to date; you can use your to monitor your state of charge, lock and unlock, and even remote start. A standard 8-inch touchscreen has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and you can use your voice to operate most vehicle functions.
Starting MSRP: $34,490
EPA Estimated MPGe: 108
The Pacifica is proof that for practicality and efficiency, it’s tough to beat a minivan. The only plug-in hybrid minivan on the market, Pacifica offers excellent fuel economy, as well as 32 miles of all-electric driving range. Plus, it has similar interior room to some of the biggest SUVs, with a more compact footprint and big sliding doors.
The interior is super-versatile, with a wide variety of seating configurations, and the cargo area is huge. Available Uconnect Theatre includes dual 10-inch touchscreens with Blu-Ray player, wireless streaming, and more. New for is a Pinnacle trim that offers an ultra-luxurious cabin that rivals a limousine for comfort and features.
Starting MSRP: $51,055
EPA Estimated MPGe: 82
The Prius is one of the original hybrids and is still a leader in fuel economy and low running costs. In many ways, it set the template for every hybrid to come, offering a sleek shape, hatchback body, compact drivetrain, and exceptional economy. The latest version of the Prius adds gorgeous styling to its list of practical attributes, and it’s a performer, too, able to dash to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds with 220 horsepower.
What the Prius PHEV adds to the is the ability to plug in and the ability to drive up to 48 miles on electric power alone. While the regular Prius can go only very short distances without the gasoline engine, you might be able to do your entire commute in the plug-in version.
Combine that capability with Toyota’s traditional rock-solid build, amazing reliability, and high resale values, and you have a very intelligent buy.
Starting MSRP: $33,375
EPA Estimated MPGe: 114
The BMW X5 is one of our favorite luxury SUVs. It has a great combination of space, versatility, performance, and handling , all wrapped up in a good-looking package with easy-to-use technology. Well-designed and well-made inside and out, it is not an inexpensive vehicle, but offers impressive value for the money, and its cabin is one of the roomiest in its class.
The X5 is also one of the most innovative luxury SUVs, with the availability of a plug-in hybrid powertrain that utilizes BMW’s smooth, powerful turbocharged inline-six with an electric motor. Upgraded for from a “45e” to a “50e,” the plug-in X5 now has 483 total horsepower is on tap, along with up to 38 miles of all-electric range.
Standard all-wheel drive and BMW dynamics make it one of the best SUVs to drive along with being one of the most economical.
Starting MSRP: $73,800
EPA Estimated MPGe: 58
Ford’s versatile Escape is perennially a top-selling compact SUV, and it’s not hard to see why. It offers excellent features, space, and tech in an attractive package at a reasonable price. The 210-hp plug-in hybrid version has an impressive all-electric range of 37 miles thanks to its 14-kWh battery. It combines with a powerful but fuel-sipping 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine, for a total range of 520 miles.
Standard tech includes Ford’s CoPilot 360 advanced driver assistance suite with pre-collision assist, pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, and more. Inside, the Sync-operating system offers a digital instrument cluster, user-friendly touchscreen, voice control, and Amazon Alexa.
Starting MSRP: $38,400
EPA Estimated MPGe: 101
Is it surprising that the best-selling plug-in hybrid in America is a trail-ready, off-road focused Jeep? It shouldn’t be because we Americans are SUV-mad, and the design of the Wrangler is truly iconic. The 4xe proves you don’t need to sacrifice green credentials even if you want to venture into the woods. It combines iconic style with go-anywhere ability and emissions-free commuting.
In full electric mode, the Wrangler 4xe can travel up to 21 miles emissions-free, and when you need gasoline power, a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is there for you. Multiple driving modes let you cruise in full-electric, mix both engine and motor, and even use the engine to charge the battery. Plus, you get 375 total horsepower, 470 lb-ft of torque, and, depending on which trim level you choose, even Jeep’s top “Trail Rated” 4x4 designation.
Starting MSRP: $50,695
EPA Estimated MPGe: 49
Choosing a plug-in hybrid means having flexibility without compromise. With options ranging from compact, affordable daily drivers to luxurious, powerful SUVs, there’s a PHEV suited to almost every lifestyle. Whether your priority is emissions-free commuting, family-friendly versatility, off-road capability, or upscale refinement, today’s best-selling plug-in hybrids deliver exceptional efficiency and practicality.
As you consider your options, remember to factor in available incentives, daily driving needs, and your preferred balance between electric range and gasoline convenience.
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