As gas prices rise, so do the number of U.S. drivers who are considering hybrid vehicles as they shop online for cars, according to Cox Automotive’s Kelley Blue Book.
The group said in a report released on Aug. 4 that hybrid consideration reached a record high of 22% in the first half of 2026 as shoppers seek out more fuel-efficient options. The uptick came as shopper interest in fully electric cars waned, with only 10% of car buyers considering those in the first half of the year.
Additionally, the average price of gas on Friday, Aug. 28, was $4.08 per gallon, according to the AAA Auto Club.
“The findings suggest shoppers aren’t necessarily looking for the lowest-priced vehicle,” the group said. “Instead, they’re prioritizing models that offer the right balance of affordability, fuel efficiency and everyday practicality.”
With that in mind, I’ve reviewed five hybrid cars this year and I’ve ranked them in order of personal preference.
1. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Starting price: $42,260
What I liked: When I reviewed the Grand Highlander, I noted that it was spacious enough to be a modern family car and had excellent gas mileage as a hybrid vehicle.
What I didn’t like: The Grand Highlander was boxy and slightly larger than most three-row SUVs I’ve driven, which made parking in tight spaces a bit of a challenge.
2. 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
Starting price: $46,490
What I liked: When I reviewed the Telluride hybrid, I noted that the popular three-row SUV “offers a broad range of features, smooth handling and an appealing curbside exterior.”
What I didn’t like: The second-row captain’s chairs offer easy access to the third-row seating, but they limit the option to seat three passengers across the second row in a bid to expand the rear cargo space for a family beach road trip.
3. 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid
Starting price: $31,900
What I liked: When I reviewed the RAV4, I noted that the popular hybrid “offers a strong value proposition for a small family car (starting at just over $32,000 for a regular hybrid base model).”
What I didn’t like: The charger port and gas tank being on different sides of the vehicle could lead to momentary confusion at the pump or charging station.
4. 2026 Genesis GV80 Coupe Hybrid
Starting price: $81,850
What I liked: When I reviewed the Genesis GV80, I noted that it is very stylish and “offers a smooth, comfortable ride with sturdy handling.”
What I didn’t like: The Genesis GV80 Coupe starts at just under $82,000, before taxes and additional fees, making it an expensive option compared to many of the other new crossover SUVs on the market.
5. Mazda CX-50 Hybrid
Starting price: $34,750
What I liked: When I reviewed the CX-50 hybrid, I noted that it is “one of the cheapest hybrid SUVs in the country.”
What I didn’t like: I also enjoyed the CX-50 hybrid’s large screen for infotainment and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. But the CX-50 hybrid’s knob control system near the gear shift took some getting used to.
Keith Laing is an automotive reporter on the National Trending Desk at USA TODAY. Contact Keith at [email protected].
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
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