Other hybrids
Chevrolet Volt MSRP: $34,095 Despite the Volt’s eco image, it’s actually fun to drive, without the range anxiety of pure electric vehicles. Its gasoline-hybrid powertrain offers impressive all-electric range, greater efficiency, and better acceleration. The all-electric range is 53 miles; after that, the gas engine starts up to recharge the battery and keep you going. In our testing, we recorded 59 MPGe. There are five seats, but the middle rear seat is almost unusable. Charge times are 13 hours on 120V and 4.5 on 240V.
Hyundai Ioniq MSRP: $23,085 Sharing its underpinnings with the Kia Niro, the Ioniq comes in many flavors. There’s a hybrid, an EV, and a plug-in version. The hybrid has a 104-hp gasoline engine, a 43-hp electric motor, and an EPA highway rating of 54 mpg—better than the Toyota Prius Eco’s 53. The EV gets a 118-hp electric motor and an estimated 124-mile range; a DC fast charger can recharge its battery to 80 percent in 23 minutes. The plug-in gets the gas engine, a 60-hp electric motor and 27 miles of electric-only range.
Toyota Prius MSRP: $24,370 With its combination of space and efficiency, the Prius is quite compelling — in our experience, 46 mpg is achievable, even at 75-mph speeds. In the fun-to-drive department, though, it falls short, and the brakes feel vague. The cabin is mostly quiet, but the tires clomp loudly over broken roads. The seats are comfortable; fold down the rear ones for 66 cu ft of cargo room. A responsive touchscreen controls the infotainment system. The Prius Eco model rates at 58 mpg city and 53 mpg highway.
Kia Niro MSRP: $23,785 Called an “un-hybrid,” the Niro combines a hybrid powertrain with a subcompact crossover for the best of both worlds. The interior is roomy, with an elevated seating position for easy entry/exit and a clear view of the road ahead. A gas engine pairs with an electric motor for an output of 139 hp; fuel economy is rated at up to 52 mpg city. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Available safety tech includes blindspot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning.