Some models make it from one year to the next without being picked. Such is the case for a few of the unlucky hybrid SUVs from 2021. These unloved vehicles are waiting at dealerships, ready to be plucked off the lot and taken home to provide you with an excellent driving experience.
We donned our research caps and came up with a list of a few models that offer impressive fuel mileage from the hybrid powertrain while being affordable to drive. If one of these models sounds right to you, head over to the dealership and take a test drive. They might have lasted through 2021, but they won’t last much longer.
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
Through our 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid model research, we find this SUV to be one of the newest models in the market. Hyundai added the hybrid powertrain to this version giving it a fuel-efficient version that drives right and returns impressive mileage. This SUV is considered the Best Buy in its class by Kelley Blue Book, putting it right where you want it, at the top.
Pros
- Standard AWD
- Tons of interior space
Cons
- Wide rear pillars hinder outward visibility
The Santa Fe Hybrid is capable of returning 34 mpg combined, and it can tow up to 2,000 pounds of gear behind it. Choose the Limited trim, and you’ll find Remote Smart Parking Assist as one of the standard features. This feature allows you to remotely park this hybrid SUV by pressing a button on the key fob. If you’re looking for a compact crossover SUV with a hybrid powertrain to give you the fuel savings desired, this is one of the best hybrid SUVs you can find.
2021 Kia Niro Hybrid
For a relatively minuscule price, you can have a subcompact hybrid SUV that delivers affordability, fuel mileage, and a smooth drive. The Kia Niro is built to be a discreet vehicle while offering the friendly feeling you want when engaging with the environment. You won’t find a green vehicle that comes to you with a better price than the Niro.
Pros
- Reserved design that doesn’t push hybrid in your face
- Up to 50 mpg combined
- IIHS Top Safety Pick (at higher trim levels)
Cons
- Underpowered gas engine
- Road noises at highway speeds
- Polarizing style
When you want a small SUV that doesn’t require a lot of fuel, the Kia Niro Hybrid is what you’re looking to drive. Whether you spend your time in the city or need to branch out, this SUV can be comfortable on any road, giving you the drive and the confidence you’re after. Take the Niro Hybrid for a test drive and see the impressive array of standard features included in this SUV.
2021 Ford Escape Hybrid
Our market research brings us to a darling among the hybrid SUVs; the Ford Escape Hybrid. This compact crossover SUV is one of the most useful vehicles you’ll find. Introduced in 2020, the Escape hybrid offers a muscular design, lightweight build, an excellent level of technology, and a platform that differs from the gasoline-only model. The Escape is offered in both hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, which means you could have some driving on electric-only power.
Pros
- Generous cargo room
- Sporty handling
- Tons of standard technology
Cons
- Price increases rapidly with options
- Road noise
- Rotary dial shifter is unusual
Tossing some numbers at you, you’ll find up to 41 mpg combined when you select one of the hybrid versions of the Ford Escape. This SUV also boasts more than 40 inches of legroom for both rows of passengers and 34 cubic feet of cargo space. This means you’ll have ample room to carry who and what you need in this fuel-sipping crossover SUV.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is one of the most popular hybrid SUVs in the market. This model is also offered with either a traditional hybrid layout or one that uses a plug-in hybrid method in the RAV4 Prime. The rugged appearance and fuel savings make this crossover appealing to many. Check the box for AWD and see how much fun it can be to take a hybrid SUV out on some light trails on the weekends.
Pros
- Several trims and powertrain options
- Excellent standard safety tech including adaptive cruise control
- AWD system with selectable drive modes
Cons
- Underpowered gas engine
- Road noises at highway speeds
- Polarizing rugged styling
Driving the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid will result in 40 mpg combined, making this SUV one of the most efficient on the road. Whether you enjoy trail riding or simply want to show off the rugged SUV with the hybrid powertrain, this is an excellent choice. It’s no wonder the RAV4 has become one of the most popular hybrid SUVs in the market today.
2021 Toyota Venza
Notice, we don’t have to tell you this is a hybrid SUV; every model of the 2021 Venza uses a hybrid powertrain. This nameplate returned for the 2021 model year to be a premium, hybrid SUV that might be exactly what you’re looking for. Your family can experience a fantastic drive in this vehicle that offers comfortable seating, ample cargo room, and a fuel-efficient powertrain that saves you the gas money you need for other things like ice cream. Who doesn’t love ice cream?
Pros
- 40 mpg in the city
- Standard AWD
- Exceptional handling
Cons
- Smaller cargo area than the RAV4
- Mild driving personality
- More expensive than gas models in this class
The Toyota Venza does return 40 mpg in the city while giving you 37 mpg out on the highway for a combined 39 mpg. That’s pretty good for a vehicle in this class. The Venza uses an all-new Toyota platform to give you a more upscale interior than what you’ll find in other models from this brand. If the RAV4 styling turns you off, maybe the Toyota Venza is the right one of the hybrid SUVs for you to drive.
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