If you're looking to make the most of your fuel dollar, you should consider a gas-electric hybrid. With the addition of electric motors to a gasoline driveline, fuel economy improves markedly, although that comes with caveats. The four cars listed here include a midsize sedan, a premium sedan and two small crossovers. All lose cargo volume due to the hybrid driveline, particularly the sedans. Also, many hybrids use a continuously variable transmission, which has a different feel than a traditional automatic transmission. And if you're a driving enthusiast, look elsewhere. There are few driving thrills to be had here. On the flip side, these models cost less to fuel over the long haul.
Let's check out how they perform.
_ Kia Niro Touring
EPA rating: 43 mpg
Observed fuel economy: 40 mpg
Electric-only range: None
Cargo space: 19.4 cubic feet
Base price: $29,650
As tested: $32,840
Given that the all-new front-wheel-drive Niro costs less than the Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid, is impressively equipped and has a more usefully utilitarian shape, it's a no brainer which of the two you should spring for. While the Optima Plug-In Hybrid is capable of running on electricity only, which lowers fuel bills significantly, the Niro's functional shape feels more like that of a small SUV. The cabin is roomy, although the seats are hard and flat. The driveline is noisy when the gas engine engages, and the transmission hesitates before offering more acceleration. But thankfully, the infotainment system is blessedly intuitive to use.
_ Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid
EPA rating: 103 mpg (gas and electricity); 40 mph (gas only)
Observed fuel economy: 45 mpg
Electric-only range: 29 miles
Cargo space: 9.89 cubic feet
Base price: $35,210
As tested: $41,355
Like most plug-in hybrids, the Kia Optima Hybrid is very responsive when powered solely by electricity, a mode that can be used for nearly 30 miles, and livelier than most competitors thanks to a six-speed automatic transmission. However, it's not refined. Body lean is evident in cornering and tires squeal easily, but body motions are well-controlled. The front seats are well-bolstered but the cushion is brutally hard. The infotainment system is easy to use and convenience options are plentiful, but trunk space is Lilliputian. Most importantly for a hybrid, it returns the best fuel economy of the four, thanks to its electric-only range.
_ Lexus ES300h
EPA rating: 40 mpg
Observed fuel economy: 34.7 mpg
Electric-only range: 1.3 miles at low speeds
Cargo space: 12.1 cubic feet
Base price: $41,820
As tested: $51,005
The ES300h is beloved by the so-called Greatest Generation, who value its quiet interior, spacious cabin, luxurious appointments and comfy cruiser demeanor. Sure, it takes 8.1 seconds to reach 60 mph, but they're in no hurry. And with a car this soothing, why rush? The continuously variable transmission bogs down performance, and body lean makes this car's handling ponderous. But given the ES300h buyer's older demographic, a touchscreen is more appropriate than the infotainment system's fussy controller. And its tiny trunk is no issue; owners will hang their clothes on a rack across the back seat for the trip to Florida.
_ Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE
EPA rating: 32 mpg
Observed fuel economy: 30 mpg
Electric-only range: 0.6 miles below 25 mph
Cargo space: 35.6 cubic feet
Base price: $32,185
As tested: $34,738
While you could question the aesthetics of its pointy prow, the RAV4 Hybrid offers all-wheel drive, hybrid fuel economy and comfortably soothing driving manners, providing the soft ride and modest body lean that has long typified American cars. Like the other hybrids here, the car offers few driving thrills despite being a sporty SE model. Its cabin is attractive and trimmed with pleasing materials, and cargo space is the most impressive of the cars tested here. And there were many convenience features _ except Apple Car Play or Android Auto. But other qualities balance out any flaws. It's the finest hybrid of these four.
