Hybrid SUVs offer the best of both worlds, family-friendly space and fuel economy, and by 2025. you’ll find cheaper options than ever before. This increase in affordability is driven by newer hybrid powertrains, smarter packaging and increased competition from automakers. Now there’s a wave of hybrid crossovers starting at $30,000, making highly efficient family mobility surprisingly affordable.
These models are not only cheap to buy; they are built to last. Many offer excellent combined fuel economy, ample cargo and passenger space, and strong safety credentials that are most important to families. Lease and own research shows that hybrid SUVs in this price range offer great value and lower running costs.
In the list below, we’ve rounded up the 10 cheapest hybrid SUVs you can buy right now. These choices show that you don’t have to spend too much to get efficiency, versatility and modern technology in one comprehensive package.
In order to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information, the data used to compile this article was obtained from various manufacturers’ websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA. Models are ranked by starting MSRP, from most expensive to most affordable.
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $36,595
The Forester has been completely redesigned for the 2025 model year, infused with a sleeker look and more modern technology. It is a spacious and exceptionally practical crossover that can cover most places without complaint. The hybrid improves on the gas model with a smoother, quieter ride and a lot of standard equipment.
Performance specifications
The hybrid variant of the Forester isn’t much more efficient than the gas-only variant, but it’s an improvement. It cuts down on its power, making it sound less harsh and feel smoother to drive. Subaru’s crossover also boasts a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it more capable than most of its direct competitors.
in 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $35,630
Honda
The CR-V Hybrid is one of the best SUVs you can buy if value for money is your priority. It is a universal model that provides comfort, technology, practicality and efficient powertrain at a reasonable price. However, the hybrid, while very well equipped, is much more expensive than the non-hybrid model.
Performance specifications
Honda’s CR-V pairs a robust four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available everywhere, though at the expense of some efficiency. It may not be as fun as its rivals from Volksawgen or Mazda, but the CR-V Hybrid has enough character to keep you entertained.
in 2026 Mazda CX-50 hybrid
Starting MSRP: $34,750
Mazda
Mazda is slowly but surely joining the hybrid race, with the CX-50 joining the CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs. This compact crossover may not be as popular as the segment leaders, but it’s just as impressive. Not only is it a plusher and more luxurious cabin, but it’s also a much more engaging driving experience than you’d expect.
Performance specifications
Under the hood of every CX-50 Hybrid is the same powertrain as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. This means you get Mazda’s level of entertainment, along with Toyota’s excellent efficiency and reliability. While the CVT takes some of the fun out of the CX-50, its excellent chassis and steering system mean it’s still more fun than any of its rivals.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $33,995
Subaru
When the facelifted Crosstrek was first introduced for the 2024 model year, it was only available with a non-hybrid powertrain. For the 2026 model year, Subaru brought back the hybrid. It’s a lot more expensive than the standard Crosstrek, but it adds performance to the already appealing recipe of this rugged subcompact SUV.
Performance specifications
The hybrid version of the Crosstrek looks very similar to the non-hybrid version. It may be slightly more powerful, but the extra weight of the hybrid system keeps it accelerating at the same speed. Comes standard with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Our biggest complaint is that you can’t use the hybrid powertrain with the raw Wilderness trim.
in 2026 Ford Escape Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $33,890
Ford
The hybrid compact SUV segment is currently one of the most competitive segments in the market. This is one of the reasons why the Ford Escape really tries to stand out. The other part is that the American crossover is boring to drive, a little underpowered and has cheap interior materials.
Performance specifications
While the other options on this list have some great things to offer, whether it’s off-road capability, on-road agility, or impressive levels of comfort, the Escape Hybrid is decidedly mediocre in all of these respects. Its main advantage is that it delivers competitive fuel economy figures.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $32,850
Toyota
The RAV4 is the most popular SUV in America, and has been so for eight consecutive years. Toyota has found a simple and effective recipe, and the hybrid option is an even stronger value proposition. Perhaps it is worth waiting until the 2026 model year, when the crossover will enter a new generation.
Performance specifications
The RAV4 Hybrid comes standard with a four-cylinder engine and three electric motors. It’s much quicker and more responsive than the non-hybrid model, so it feels quite peppy. Its ride quality is fantastic, but all other aspects of the driving dynamics are pretty boring.
2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $32,200
Hyundai
Hyundai offers the Tucson as a gas-only, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid model. A conventional hybrid is, in our opinion, the best value for money option. It is stylish, practical and extremely efficient. Hyundai also packs this compact SUV with a host of standard features that make it even more affordable at its price.
Performance specifications
Hyundai not only saturates the Tucson Hybrid with a turbocharged engine, but also gives the crossover a traditional six-speed automatic. Both of these things are pretty rare for a hybrid at this price point. The entry-level Blue trim is the most fuel-efficient model, with all other models getting a combined 35 miles per gallon.
2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $30,290
come on
Kia has put the Sportage Hybrid under the knife for the 2026 model year, updating its styling to better match the rest of the Korean brand’s lineup. While not everyone will appreciate the exterior styling, it certainly stands out. This compact SUV is impressively spacious and comes with many comfort features as standard.
Performance specifications
The Sportage is powered by the same setup you’ll find in the Hyundai Tucson, with a turbocharger under the hood that’s paired with two electric motors. However, the Kia comes standard with front-wheel drive. While the CR-V and RAV4 often get credit for being at the top of the efficiency ladder, the Sportage actually beats them both if you go for the front-wheel drive model.
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $28,995
Toyota
Toyota has updated the 2026 model year Corolla Cross Hybrid, updating the front fascia and improving standard interior technology. While this certainly improves the crossover’s value, it’s still a somewhat underwhelming choice. Inside, its rent is very low, and driving it is truly unforgettable.
Performance specifications
The Corolla Cross Hybrid is much more efficient and faster than the non-hybrid variant. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is a bonus at this price. Its biggest selling point is affordability and efficiency, while the driving dynamics are rather lackluster and the ride quality is subpar.
2025 Kia Niro Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $26,990
come on
If you’re looking for the cheapest hybrid crossover in 2025, the Kia Niro is it. It is far ahead of other hybrid crossovers. Calling it a crossover is pretty generous, though, as the Korean hybrid is more like a hatchback with a bit more ground clearance. It won’t let you down, but you definitely get a lot for your money.
Performance specifications
A single electric motor is paired with the Niro’s modest front-wheel drive four-cylinder engine and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard equipment. While it won’t blow you away with its driving dynamics, we’re impressed with how luxurious this little hybrid crossover is to ride. It’s also the most efficient hybrid crossover on the market.