This is more informational rather than a ranking as each SUV fits a certain lifestyle, budget, and so what is right for you may not be right for another person who lives elsewhere. This is to show you the options that are out there and how they might appeal to you. All reviews and data were done by professionals.
Switching to a new type of vehicle can feel like a significant leap for many consumers, especially when it involves rethinking how they power or fuel their vehicles. Fortunately, there are transitional options between traditional internal combustion engine run vehicles (ICE) and fully electric vehicles (EVs), such as hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
A plug-in hybrid strikes a balance between gas-powered and electric vehicles, featuring a hybrid powertrain with a slightly larger battery than standard hybrids. This allows for limited driving on electric power alone. By plugging it in, you can enjoy an electric-only range for shorter trips, while the gasoline engine extends the total range when needed. This flexibility makes plug-in hybrids particularly well-suited for sport utility vehicles, offering both efficiency and versatility.
A plug-in hybrid is often seen as the best of both worlds. It combines the convenience of a traditional hybrid with power and range of a gas-powered engine, relieving any range anxiety one might have. Much like a fully electric vehicle, you have the ability of plugging it in to charge or you can have the gas-powered engine charge it just by driving it. For everyday errands or commutes, you can rely on the electric power alone. For longer trips or when maximum power and range are required, the gas engine seamlessly takes over, working in tandem with the battery. This makes plug-in hybrids a practical and adaptable choice for those not ready to make the full jump to electric yet.
Blend of Performance, Luxury, and Practicality
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
We start off with the very underrated but accomplished Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Mitsubishi and the Outlander especially are not new to the plug-in hybrid world. Among 22 vehicles, ranging from the Range Rover Cullinan to the Subaru Crosstrek, the 2023 NWAPA Mudfest crowned the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV as its overall winner. It earned the prestigious titles of Northwest Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year and Best Three-Row Family SUV of the Year.
The Outlander PHEV was celebrated for its impressive handling, refined interior, and ability to tackle uneven terrain with ease. As a family-focused compact SUV with a standard third row, it positions itself as a serious competitor to the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Offering 38 miles of electric-only range (compared to the RAV4 Prime's 42) and a more upscale interior, the Outlander PHEV strikes a balance between style and substance. Its total range extends to around 420 miles on a full tank and the battery can be charged to 80% in just 25 minutes with a DC fast charger, making it a practical and stylish option for adventurous families.
With 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, the PHEV is significantly more powerful than its gas-powered counterpart. The electric motors are the stars of the show, handling most of the driving, while the gas engine supplements by powering the front wheels when needed. At low speeds, the Outlander PHEV operates much like an electric vehicle, offering a nearly one-pedal regenerative braking mode that slows the vehicle down to about 5 mph.
Mitsubishi's Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel-drive system comes standard, along with seven drive modes, four of which cater specifically to terrain challenges: Tarmac, Gravel, Deep Snow, and Mud. New for 2025, the model now includes heated front seats as standard equipment across all trims. The mid-tier SEL trim sees notable upgrades as well, adding a standard heated steering wheel and a panoramic moonroof.
Starting at $41,940Sophistication Meets Sustainability
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Plug-In Hybrid continues to elevate the balance between luxury, technology, and eco-conscious performance. Positioned as a standout in the premium SUV segment, the GLE Plug-In Hybrid offers remarkable efficiency without compromising on the signature comfort and refinement that Mercedes-Benz is known for.
The 2025 GLE Plug-In Hybrid is equipped with a robust 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The advanced hybrid powertrain is mated to a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission and the brand's 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. What sets the 2025 GLE apart is its impressive electric-only range, extended to 48 miles thanks to a larger 31.2 kWh battery pack, with a total range exceeding 500 miles. Its on-board 11 kW charger enables faster charging, and DC fast-charging capability allows the battery to recharge to 80% in just 20 minutes.
Step inside and you'll find a meticulously crafted cabin filled with premium materials and advanced technology. The MBUX infotainment system takes center stage, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and an equally large digital instrument cluster — including voice control, navigation with augmented reality, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seamless integration with the Mercedes me app. For 2025, the GLE now features heated front seats as standard, with mid-level trims adding a heated steering wheel and panoramic moonroof.
Starting at $73,000Where Luxury and Off-Road Prowess Meet Efficiency
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been around since 1993 and a benchmark in the midsize SUV segment. Now with the advent of the plug-in hybrid 4xe model, Jeep has taken a giant leap into the electrified future. The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe represents the perfect blend of off-road capability, luxury, and eco-friendly innovation, solidifying its place as one of the most versatile SUVs in its class.
The Grand Cherokee 4xe utilizes a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, paired with two electric motors and a 17.3-kWh battery pack, producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque — an impressive 6,000 lbs of towing, significantly more than previous Jeep models sporting a V8. An 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifts whether you're cruising the freeway or tackling the open trail. Jeep's legendary Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system is standard, with adjustable ride height and five drive modes: Rock, Sand/Mud, Snow, Auto, and Electric.
The 4xe's hybrid system enables impressive versatility — pure electric power for up to 26 miles, or hybrid mode for long-distance efficiency. Without electric power, the Grand Cherokee 4xe achieves a combined 23 mpg. Utilizing its plug-in hybrid system delivers an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe, with a combined range of nearly 450 miles eliminating range anxiety. For 2025, Jeep has introduced a more intuitive 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, new color schemes, and sustainable materials including optional vegan leather. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera are now standard.
Starting at approximately $61,000The Nexus of the Plug-In Hybrids — Boring, Pricey, but Perfect
The Lexus TX Plug-In Hybrid showcases an impressive blend of performance, practicality, and luxury, marking a significant step forward for Lexus in the realm of luxury three-row SUVs with electrified performance. Despite its size, the TX is surprisingly nimble, offering stable cornering and a mostly serene cabin environment.
Under the hood, the TX PHEV houses a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined 404 horsepower. This powerful setup propels the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.9 seconds. In gas/hybrid mode it achieves an EPA-estimated 29 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. In electric/hybrid mode, it boasts an impressive 76 MPGe combined, with an all-electric range of 33 miles — impressive considering the size and weight. A full charge takes approximately 3 hours using a Level 2 charger.
The TX retains the bold, angular styling Lexus is known for, with a spacious cabin designed to accommodate up to seven passengers comfortably. Premium materials such as semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents create a luxurious environment. The three-row configuration features a notably spacious adult-friendly third row — a rarity among midsize luxury SUVs. With all three rows in use there's 20.2 cubic feet of storage. Folding the third row expands the space to 57.4 cubic feet, while lowering both rows unlocks a cavernous 97 cubic feet.
Starting at approximately $78,000Efficient, Versatile, and Modern
The 2025 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is a versatile and eco-friendly compact SUV that caters to drivers seeking a balance of efficiency, practicality, and modern features. With a refreshed design and advanced hybrid technology, the Escape PHEV continues to be a strong contender in the growing plug-in hybrid market.
Under the hood, a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor delivers a combined 210 horsepower. The fuel efficiency is a standout feature — an estimated 40 mpg in hybrid mode and an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles. A full charge completes in about 3.5 hours using a Level 2 charger. Front-wheel-drive is the only configuration, most likely to keep weight down and efficiency up. The 2025 model brings subtle exterior updates: a refreshed front grille, updated LED lighting, and aerodynamic styling that enhance visual appeal while improving efficiency.
Inside, the Escape PHEV offers a comfortable and functional layout accommodating up to five passengers, with 34.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 60.8 cubic feet with seats folded. Ford's latest SYNC 4 infotainment system features a large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
Starting at around $39,500A Sophisticated Blend of Performance, Refinement, Efficiency, and Fun
Some may argue that the 2025 Mazda CX-70 Plug-In Hybrid is just the CX-90 PHEV without the third row seating option — and they would be right. But bringing Mazda's signature driving dynamics, upscale design, and eco-conscious engineering into a two-row midsize SUV is far from a compromise.
At the heart of the CX-70 PHEV is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor producing an impressive 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard all-wheel drive enhances stability and control. True to Mazda's ethos, the finely tuned suspension gracefully balances comfort with agility — precise, well-weighted steering and sport-tuned suspension provide confidence during sharp maneuvers, always feeling stable and composed even during spirited driving. The 17.8-kWh battery pack is capable of recharging from 20% to 80% in approximately 90 minutes using a 240-volt connection, with 26 miles of all-electric range available.
Mazda has always had an eye for fluid design, and the CX-70's interior tells a story of passion, refinement, luxury, and desire. Soft-touch surfaces, optional leather upholstery, and tasteful accents contribute to the upscale vibe. The 12.3-inch display is controlled via an intuitive rotary dial. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Behind the rear seats you'll find 39 cubic feet of storage, expanding to 75 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
Starting at approximately $54,400The Best of Both Worlds
We first have to clear the air — Toyota has dropped the name "Prime" for its 2025 plug-in hybrid model and is now simply calling it a PHEV, as customers were confused with models and trim levels. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV continues to set a high bar for plug-in hybrid SUVs, combining eco-friendly efficiency with robust performance and the versatility expected from Toyota's popular RAV4 lineup.
The RAV4 PHEV features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 302 horsepower, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds — the quickest RAV4 ever. All-wheel drive comes standard. Equipped with an 18.1-kWh battery, the RAV4 PHEV offers an EPA-estimated 42 miles of all-electric range — ideal not just for daily commuters but for almost any trip within reason without using a drop of gas. In hybrid mode it delivers an impressive 94 MPGe combined and 38 mpg operating solely as a hybrid. The RAV4 PHEV has really cracked the code on efficiency.
Inside, the RAV4 PHEV boasts a modern and functional cabin with quality materials. It offers seating for five with up to 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 63.2 cubic feet with them folded. Higher trims add synthetic leather, a larger infotainment screen, a JBL premium audio system, wireless charging, and a head-up display. Along with advanced safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, the RAV4 PHEV is a great all-around package.
Starting at $43,865The Bold and Beautiful
The Volvo XC60 Recharge radiates beauty, even in a design a shade under 10 years — and it could still go another 10, it is that beautiful. It masterfully blends Scandinavian elegance, eco-friendly technology, and practical utility. As part of Volvo's push toward full electrification, the XC60 Recharge offers a premium driving experience while reducing its environmental footprint.
The XC60 Recharge is powered by a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, producing an astonishing 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission — catapulting the XC60 Recharge to 60 mph in an eye-blinking 4.3 seconds, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in its class. The PHEV system allows for up to 35 miles of all-electric driving, with the hybrid mode achieving 63 MPGe combined. Combining both, you have a 560-mile range of convenience.
The XC60 Recharge's cabin is a study in minimalist luxury, featuring high-quality materials like real wood, metal, and leather-free upholstery options. Cargo is slightly limited at 22.4 cubic feet for rear passenger comfort, but the rear seats fold to expand to 63.3 cubic feet — more than the Audi Q5 or Lexus NX. Volvo's Google-based infotainment system comes standard with a 9-inch touchscreen, Google Maps integration, and voice-activated controls. The best-in-class Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and Volvo's Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system round out the tech. You will be hard pressed to find a more elegant PHEV on the market.
Starting at $59,345Old School Enhanced by Technology
Jeep's first attempt with a plug-in hybrid version of the iconic Wrangler combines classic off-road capability with modern electrification, with hopes of generating new buyers and a better footprint. This blend is like a summit meeting at the UN — a good start, but needs to accomplish more.
The Wrangler does deliver a strong overall performance, but its fuel efficiency — the one aspect it was aiming to improve — falls more on the disappointing side of the spectrum for a PHEV. The Wrangler 4xe features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 17-kWh battery and two electric motors, producing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Most will enjoy the endless torque from the electric motors for off-road situations where the Wrangler excels. It offers an electric-only range of approximately 22 miles before the gas engine activates. The 2024 version achieves an EPA-estimated 49 MPGe in combined electric/hybrid driving and 20 mpg in hybrid mode alone.
Jeep has made a valiant effort with the Wrangler 4xe and knows its buyers will most likely be weekend warriors hitting the trail versus daily commuters. Having said that — it's a Wrangler. You forget about all of that when the top is off and you are in the middle of nowhere.
Starting at $50,695Luxury Meets Plug-In Hybrid Performance
The Corsair Grand Touring is one of the most overlooked and underrated plug-in hybrids — anyone who is in the market for a PHEV should have this close to the top of their list. A premium compact plug-in hybrid SUV that combines elegant design, advanced technology, and efficient performance, offering a refined driving experience with a blend of electric and gasoline power.
The 2025 Corsair Grand Touring is powered by Ford's 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) allows for smooth transitions between electric and gasoline power. The electric motor alone accounts for around 28 miles of EV range, perfect for daily commutes. Switch to hybrid mode and it achieves an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city and 39 mpg on the highway. Those are Prius numbers — in a Lincoln.
As good as the efficiency is, this is after all a Lincoln, and it exudes luxury. The cabin offers endless amounts of quality and ample space for five passengers, featuring soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, and high-quality materials throughout. You feel important while inside. The only aspect that may trump the luxury would be the comprehensive suite of advanced safety technology: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system are all standard. The Corsair offers 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 57.6 cubic feet with seats folded.
Starting at $54,365Spunky but Expensive
The Dodge Hornet PHEV crossover represents Dodge's effort to adapt its muscle-car legacy to a modern era by offering a smaller, more efficient package while retaining the brand's signature performance-oriented ethos. The Hornet features a turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 15.5-kWh battery pack, delivering 258 horsepower with a "Power Shot" function that temporarily boosts output to 288 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque.
All-wheel drive is standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Hornet blasts to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds — sharp steering and sporty reflexes keep the Hornet light on its feet around town, a rarity in the PHEV league. Like most things with power it comes at a cost — the Hornet PHEV has the worst fuel economy in the segment at 29 mpg combined or 77 MPGe. Despite these drawbacks, it offers an EV-only range of 31–32 miles, appealing to those with short commutes. A Level 2 charger fully recharges the battery in about 2.5 hours.
The Hornet Hybrid offers solid tech, impressive standard features, and fun driving dynamics, making it a viable choice for shoppers prioritizing performance and hybrid benefits over spaciousness. Upgrading to the R/T Plus adds leather ventilated seating, a sunroof, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and wireless charging — but pushes the price into premium territory. If only it were priced better.
Starting at $42,530Luxury Meets Electrified Performance
Porsche's motto, "There is No Substitute," may have placed Porsche in a bind with this PHEV option. The 2025 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid blends Porsche's signature performance with plug-in hybrid efficiency, delivering a sporty yet eco-conscious SUV experience with refreshed styling, improved interior technology, and a powerful hybrid powertrain.
At its core, the Cayenne E-Hybrid features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor and a larger 25.9-kWh battery pack, generating a combined 463 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This setup enables acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in a blitzkrieg-attacking 4.6 seconds, advancing until it hits its limiter at 158 mph. The electric-only range is 40 to 48 miles, enabling it to sit at the table with some pure EVs. Charging with a Level 2 charger takes about 2.5 hours. Standard all-wheel drive and an impressive towing capability of up to 7,700 pounds complete the picture.
Inside, the Cayenne E-Hybrid offers a luxurious and tech-forward cabin with a 12.3-inch curved display housing the updated Porsche Communication Management system, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional passenger display. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking are standard, with optional night vision assist and 360-degree camera. The 2025 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid caters to those who seek a high-performance luxury SUV with plug-in hybrid benefits — substituting nothing in between.
Starting at $91,700Fraternal Twins
Same platform. Same powertrain. Same dimensions. So which one speaks to you?
2025 KIA Sportage PHEV
2025 Hyundai Tucson PHEV
Fraternal twins share about 50% of their DNA and can be the same or different depending on where you look. Considering that KIA and Hyundai are sister companies and tend to share a number of their secrets, it all comes down to which one speaks to you best. Both the Hyundai Tucson and KIA Sportage share the same platform, powertrains, and even the same basic dimensions. So what are the differences, and which one is for you?
Neither of these vehicles is built for speed — and the majority of buyers will be pleased with the acceleration of both. The Sportage PHEV has a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder and electric motor putting out a combined 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque with front-wheel drive, reaching 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The Tucson found an extra 7 ponies making 268 horsepower but routes power through standard all-wheel drive, reaching 60 in 7.6 seconds. It still has plenty of pep, performing well in all driving situations.
The Sportage PHEV earns 34 mpg or 84 MPGe and solid 34 miles of pure EV range. The Tucson with its all-wheel drive gets an impressive 33 mpg and 80 MPGe with roughly 33 miles of pure EV range. When using a 240V, the Tucson charges in 1.7 hours while the Sportage comes in at 2 hours — again, not much of a difference. On the road, the Tucson feels a bit more athletic and engaging, while the Sportage is calm and handles well.
The interior features of both are so closely matched that Sherlock himself would be hard pressed to differentiate the two. The Tucson does offer genuine leather upholstery on its top-tier Limited trim — not found in the Sportage — along with a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen. The Sportage's interior is still well-built with most materials feeling high-end, with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 12.2-inch digital instrument cluster. Both are the top two vehicles in their class. The KIA wins on price, reliability, and fuel economy. The Hyundai wins on safety, cargo space, ride quality, and interior features.
A Family-Friendly Electrified SUV
In the bustling world of midsize SUVs, the 2025 KIA Sorento PHEV stands out as a compelling blend of family practicality, advanced technology, and eco-friendly innovation. Imagine a family of six embarking on your next great adventure — whether it's a cross-country road trip or a daily school run — the Sorento's efficient powertrain and modern amenities is the ideal steed for your journey.
Under the hood, the Sorento PHEV boasts a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor and a 13.8-kWh battery delivering a respectable 261 horsepower. The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, with standard all-wheel drive for reassurance when weather takes a turn. On electric power alone, this SUV can travel up to 32 miles. For longer journeys, its hybrid system provides an EPA-estimated 79 MPGe combined and 34 mpg in gas-only mode. With a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, it can easily pull a small trailer for a family getaway.
Step inside and the Sorento PHEV greets you with a thoughtfully designed cabin with room for six passengers, second-row captain's chairs, and a third row handy for extra family members. The 10.25-inch touchscreen provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster keeps the driver informed. With 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, nothing gets left behind. The Sorento PHEV isn't just a vehicle — it's a partner for families navigating the complexities of modern life.
Starting at approximately $50,000Sanctuary on Wheels
The 2025 Volvo XC90 emerges with a refreshed look and feel, seamlessly blending modernity with its signature elegance. The exterior has been subtly reimagined to mirror the design language of the upcoming all-electric EX90 — redesigned air intakes, a sleeker front bumper, reworked hood and fenders, T-shaped Matrix LED headlamps, and a crisp new LED tail signature. Volvo offers a choice of sophisticated 20-, 21-, and 22-inch wheels.
Underneath, its 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor and a 19.8-kWh battery delivers an impressive 455 horsepower. On electric power alone, the XC90 Recharge can travel up to 38 miles — perfect for a silent, emissions-free school run. When the gas engine joins the party, the SUV achieves 58 MPGe combined. Thanks to all-wheel drive, it's equally adept at handling snowy driveways or gravel paths leading to a secluded cabin. Charging on a Level 2 charger takes about 5 hours — one of the slower in the segment, making it ideally an overnight charge.
Stepping inside, the XC90 embraces tech-driven luxury — clean lines, premium materials, and an emphasis on light and space. Natural wood inlays, Nappa leather upholstery, and sustainable materials like wool blends offer a serene escape from the outside world. The new 11.2-inch freestanding central display replaces the old dashboard-integrated screen with 21% more pixel density. Volvo's Google-powered system features an intuitive "contextual bar" and Google Maps integration. The XC90 Recharge seats up to seven, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system that transforms the cabin into a concert hall. With 85.7 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded, it has room for everything. The king of elegance has returned with more tech and ambiance than ever before.
Starting at $58,540Making Your Decision
Hopefully, this has expanded your perspective and offered clarity as you weigh your options, while also encouraging you to explore possibilities you might not have previously considered. The world of plug-in hybrids is rich and varied, with each model tailored to meet specific strengths and cater to diverse lifestyles.
To make the best decision, start by reflecting on your unique wants and needs. What matters most to you — range, efficiency, performance, or features? Are you prioritizing daily commuting, long-distance travel, or perhaps a balance of both? By creating a detailed list of your priorities, you'll be equipped to navigate the many choices confidently and find a plug-in hybrid that aligns perfectly with your life. Rest assured — with thoughtful consideration, you can't go wrong in making an informed and fulfilling choice.