Plug-in hybrid models are a great middle-ground for people who like the idea of an all-electric car but still suffer range anxiety. They combine an electric motor and battery pack with a traditional internal combustion engine, just like a conventional hybrid. The difference is the battery has enough capacity to deliver a short all-electric driving range -- generally 50-70 kilometres.
This is often enough to handle the morning commute or run errands in the afternoon without using gasoline. However, if you decide to take a longer trip, you can stop and refill at any gas station instead of searching for a charger like an electric vehicle (EV).
What is the best plug-in hybrid in Canada? Continue reading to find out more about all the PHEV options.
What Makes a Good Plug-In Hybrid
Let's look at the essential qualities you should consider when shopping for the best plug-in hybrid in Canada. Of course, you need a vehicle that fits your family's needs first and foremost, but beyond that, the key traits to consider are as follows.
All-Electric Range (AER)
The all-electric range (AER) -- the distance you can drive on a full battery before the internal combustion engine kicks on -- is the primary consideration when shopping for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). This will typically fall somewhere in the 30-50-km range in most PHEVs, but this number has been increasing as battery technology continues developing.
The best plug-in hybrid in Canada will get you to work or through most of your errands without gasoline. If the vehicle has enough range to get you home after that, it’s a bonus.
Before you start shopping, map out your commute and determine the number of kilometres from home to work or wherever you drive daily. Try to find a vehicle with the range closest to this number of kilometres or in excess of it.
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent
The fuel-efficiency equivalent measures how many kWh of electricity a vehicle uses to cover 100 km and converts it to gasoline at a rate of 1 litre of fuel for every 8.9 kWh of electricity. Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) lists this as combined Le/100km.
The lower the combined Le/100km is, the more efficient the electric motor and charging system are. This doesn't always translate to AER, as that's mostly determined by battery size. So don’t be surprised to find that PHEVs with a lower AER often have better fuel consumption numbers. This will help you determine just how much it may cost you to keep this vehicle charged.
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency
Another key concern when choosing the best plug-in hybrid in Canada is the hybrid fuel efficiency, which measures the PHEV's efficiency after you've depleted the battery and the vehicle switches to hybrid mode, which pairs the gas engine with the electric motor. Like all other hybrid cars, NRCAN measures this in litres per 100 km (L/100km).
This will only impact you when driving long distances or if your daily commute exceeds the vehicle's AER. It may not be a top priority, but it’s worth considering.
Methodology
So, how exactly did we come up with the best PHEVs in Canada and rank our list? We started by evaluating each 2024 model PHEV for AER, electric Le/100 km rating, hybrid L/100 km rating, rear legroom, and max cargo room. We then assign points for each measurement (the better the measurement, the more points the vehicle got). We then totalled up the points and placed them in order from worst (lowest points) to best (highest points).
The 13 Best Plug-In Hybrids in Canada
If you're searching for a quality PHEV, here are 13 of the best plug-in hybrids in Canada.
13. Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid
MSRP: $48,790
AER: 51 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 3.1 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 8.1 L/100km
Starting off our list is a lesser-known PHEV from Alfa Romeo, the Tonale Plug-In Hybrid. This compact crossover boasts a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that combine for a surprising 285 horsepower and 347 pound-feet of torque. This power flows through a six-speed automatic transmission and out to all four wheels, delivering a crisp 0-to-100 km/h acceleration.
As a PHEV, speed is great, but it’s all about efficiency, which is what drove the Tonale down our list a little. Its 3.1 Le/100 km combined all-electric fuel-consumption rating was tied for last, as was its 8.1 L/100 km combined hybrid rating. Plus, its 53 km of electric-only range tied for next to last.
Inside, the Tonale didn’t fare much better with just 965 mm of rear legroom and 1,430 litres of maximum cargo space. However, the Tonale makes up for some of its shortcomings with premium features, such as standard leather seating, LED ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and much more.
12. Dodge Hornet R/T Plug-In Hybrid
MSRP: $53,615
AER: 51 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 3.1 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 8.1 L/100km
You may not notice it at first glance, but the Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV shares most of its mechanics with the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Only their bodies and interiors differ. With them being so closely related, it’s no surprise they nearly tied on our list.
The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV boasts a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that combine for 288 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This power heads through a six-speed automatic transmission and out to all four wheels, delivering a surprisingly quick 0-to-100 km/h acceleration.
The Hornet struggles in the same areas as the Tonale, starting with efficiency. The Hornet R/T’s 3.1 Le/100 km combined all-electric fuel-consumption rating was tied for last, as was its 8.1 L/100 km combined hybrid rating. Plus, its 53 km of AER was tied for next to last.
Inside, the Hornet didn’t fare much better than the Tonale with just 965 mm of rear legroom and 1,549 litres of maximum cargo space. However, like its Alfa cousin, the Hornet makes up for some of its shortcomings with premium features. These include standard cloth and leatherette seating, a power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and much more.
11. Volvo S60 T8 AWD
MSRP: $58,389
AER: 64 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 3 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 7.6 L/100km
The one and only sedan on our list hails from Volvo, and it’s the midsize S60 T8 AWD. While it comes in relatively low on our list, this sedan may be one of the best-balanced models with premium features, a comfortable ride, good fuel consumption, ample AER, and top-notch safety. So, if a Goldilocks car is what you’re seeking, the S60 may be a good bet.
However, it did end up so low on our list for a reason. At 64 km, its AER is actually in the top three on our list, but its 3 Le/100 km in electric mode and 7.6 L/100 km in hybrid mode are a little head-scratching from a midsize sedan.
What really hurts the S60 is it comes up dead last in rear legroom at 894 mm and cargo space at 328 litres. However, as a luxury sedan, this PHEV has loads of premium goodies to make the most of that limited space, including a panoramic glass roof, Google services, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, premium audio, an air-quality system, and more.
10. Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring
MSRP: $62,485
AER: 45 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 3 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 7.1 L/100km
Staying in the luxury segment but moving back into SUVs, the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring comes in at No. 4 on our list of the best plug-in hybrids in Canada. The big downside is the plug-in model only comes in the highest Corsair trim level, so it has a fairly expensive base price. That said, you get a lot of features and a smooth ride for that premium price of entry.
Some of its premium features include an adaptive suspension, dual-zone auto climate control, active noise control, Lincoln Connect, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, ambient lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote start, Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13.2-inch infotainment interface, and so much more. It also has a full allotment of high-end safety technology.
The Corsair does struggle a bit in AER and electric mode efficiency, with just 45 kilometres of electric range (last place) and 3 Le/100 km (next to last). However, its 7.1 L/100 km hybrid fuel consumption fares a little better at about the middle of the pack.
Also falling near the middle of the group is its second-row legroom at 980 mm and maximum cargo room at 1,591 litres.
9. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
MSRP: $57,865
AER: 53 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.9 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 8 L/100km
If you've got a big family to haul around and need a three-row minivan, you've got one option: the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Depending on the model year, NRCAN rated the Pacifica Hybrid at 51 or 53 km of AER and 784 or 858 km of hybrid range.
Its all-electric fuel-efficiency equivalent rings in at an equally respectable 2.8 to 2.9 Le/100km. Its total hybrid fuel efficiency is good for a minivan at 7.3 to 8 L/100km combined.
Not only does the Pacifica Hybrid have room for the whole family, but it also takes up to 3,978.5 litres of cargo with the rear seats flat or removed and 2,477.7 litres behind the second seats. With all the seats upright, it is still cargo-friendly at 914.6 litres.
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8. Lexus NX 450+
MSRP: $63,240
AER: 61 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.8 L/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 6.6 L/100km
Back to the luxury realm with the Lexus NX 450+, which shares a lot with the Toyota RAV4 Prime. This model boasts a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid powertrain that delivers 304 horsepower and quick 0-to-100 km/h acceleration.
As for efficiency, it’s solid with a 61-km AER, which is fourth place, and 2.8 Le/100 km in EV model and 6.6 L/100 km in hybrid.
Where the NX 450+ falters is interior roominess, as it comes up third from last place with just 917 mm of rear legroom and 1,328 litres or max cargo room. As a premium model, though, the NX makes the most of its limited interior space with a luxurious cabin that includes a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, and more.
7. Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid
MSRP: $51,444
AER: 51 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 3.0 L/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 6.9 L/100km
Like its sister brand, Hyundai, Kia has also taken huge steps in the world of electrification, and this includes PHEV crossovers. One of these models is the 2024 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid, which boasts a 3.0 Le/100 km EV fuel efficiency and 6.9 L/100 km combined fuel consumption in hybrid mode.
AER checks in at a respectable 51 km, with another 681 km coming when it’s in hybrid mode.
Like its Hyundai sibling, the Sorento can tow up to 2,000 pounds, making it a capable SUV. It also has up to 2,139 litres of cargo space with the two rear rows folded.
6. Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid
MSRP: $52,180
AER: 53 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.9 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 6.7 L/100km
The compact Tucson Plug-In Hybrid delivers a respectable 53 km of AER and another 626 km of hybrid range for a combined driving range of 679 km.
The Hyundai Tucson PHEV is also quite efficient, with an all-electric consumption treating of 2.9 Le/100 km and a hybrid rating of 6.7 L/100 km combined.
For a small hybrid crossover, the Tucson has decent capabilities. It can tow a braked trailer that weighs up to 2,000 pounds and an unbraked trailer up to 1,650 pounds. Cargo space is also ample at 1,876 litres with the rear seats folded and 902 litres with the rear seats upright. Its spacious cabin continues with 1,049 mm of rear legroom, which is tops on our list.
5. Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid
MSRP: $49,344
AER: 55 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.8 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 6.7 L/100km
Kia makes our list once again with its compact Sportage plug-in hybrid. This small crossover does many things very well at a relatively reasonable price, starting with its middle-of-the-pack 55 km of electric driving range. On top of that, it also stays in the middle of the pack with its 2.8 Le/100 km consumption rate in electric mode and 6.7 L/100 km combined in hybrid mode.
On top of solid efficiency numbers, the Sportage PHEV also has a roomy back seat that offers 1,003 mm of legroom (fifth best) and 1,855 litres of max cargo space (fourth best).
The Kia Sportage PHEV also has a distinctive styling that’s sure to grab your eyes. Plus, it has a great number of high-end standard features. These high-end features include heated seats and steering wheel, dual-zone auto climate control, quilted leatherette seating, ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Kia Connect, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and more. It also has a long list of standard driver-assist features, such as lane-keep assist, blind-spot collision avoidance, front and rear parking sensors, and more.
4. Toyota Prius Prime
MSRP: $42,545
AER: 72 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 1.8 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 4.5 L/100km
The Prius Prime recently underwent a huge redesign that ushered in a new, sportier look and a huge powertrain upgrade. Its new 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain delivers 220 horsepower and a very un-Prius-like level of performance, with a 6.8-second 0-to-100 km/h sprint time.
However, speed is not the name of the game here — efficiency is. The Prius Prime delivers here too, as it tops our list in every category: 72-km AER, 1.8 Le/100km rating on electricity, and a 4.5 L/100 km in hybrid mode in the SE trim. This makes it one of the best plug-in hybrids in Canada in terms of efficiency.
Where the Prius Prime loses ground is interior roominess, as it's next to last in rear legroom (912 mm) and cargo room (575 litres). As for interior goodies, the Prius’ relatively low price keeps things fairly simple. It includes a standard 8-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an array of high-tech safety features.
3. Toyota RAV4 Prime
MSRP: $54,215
AER: 68 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.5 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 6 L/100km
Need a compact SUV with the convenience of a plug-in-hybrid powertrain? The Toyota RAV4 Prime is a good option with its 68-km AER, making it one of the best plug-in hybrids in Canada by EV driving range. If you're a long-hauler, the RAV4 Prime will satisfy your needs with its 979-km total range on a full tank and battery.
For an SUV, the RAV4 Prime does well in fuel economy, with a decent fuel-consumption rate of 2.5 Le/100km in all-electric mode and 6 L/100km combined in hybrid mode despite its standard all-wheel drive. Plus, with a roughly 6-second 0-100 km/h sprint time, this 302-horsepower SUV delivers quick acceleration.
On top of this, the RAV4 Prime comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), so it can easily tackle Canadian winters.
The RAV4 Prime was one of the few plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market for a while, but several automakers have gotten into the segment, giving it plenty of competition.
2. Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
MSRP: $41,266
AER: 64 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.1 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 4.9 L/100km
The entire Niro lineup underwent a huge redesign in 2023, bringing in bold styling and enhanced fuel consumption and driving range. This shot the Niro up to No. 2 on our list.
This PHEV arrives with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor that combine for 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The lithium-ion battery pack gives it an ample 64-km AER, and its efficient powertrain delivers consumption numbers of 2.1 Le/100 km in EV mode and 4.9 L/100 km in hybrid mode.
On top of this, the Kia Niro PHEV is fairly roomy for its compact size. Its rear seats offer 1,011 mm of legroom (fourth best) while its cargo area can handle up to 1,546 litres of whatever you want to toss back there. The Niro’s cabin also has many great features despite a low starting price, including standard cloth and leather seats, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Kia Connect, a wireless phone charger, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more.
The Niro is also loaded with safety tech, such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-follow assist, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and much more.
1. Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
MSRP: $47,499
AER: 60 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.3 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 5.9 L/100km
Rounding out our list as the best plug-in hybrid in Canada is the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid. This thrifty Escape delivers 60-km of range on electric power alone and boasts a fuel-consumption equivalent of just 2.2 to 2.3 Le/100km.
If you've got a longer drive ahead, the Escape Plug-In Hybrid delivers 771 to 790 kilometres of total hybrid driving range with a full tank of gas, bringing its total range to 831 to 850 km. When you deplete the battery and enter hybrid mode, the Escape Plug-In Hybrid delivers a respectable 5.8 to 5.9 L/100km combined.
In addition to its thrifty ways, the Escape Plug-In Hybrid features a sleek and sporty look that'll please most buyers. Plus it has 974.1 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,721.7 litres with the rear seats folded.
Out-of-Production Plug-In Hybrid Models to Consider
Perhaps a newer model isn’t in your budget. If so, check out these out-of-production PHEV models you can pick up on the preowned market and still get great value from them.
BMW i3 REx
AER: 203 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.0 to 2.4 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 6.0 to 7.7 L/100km
The BMW i3 REx is a range-extended electric vehicle whose primary propulsion is the electric motor. Its gasoline engine acts only as a generator. That said, it still fits the bill because it can travel longer distances with gasoline.
From 2019 through 2021, this tiny hatchback had up to a 203-km AER with a 120 amp-hour (Ah) battery pack, making it great for folks with a longer commute. The 2017 and 2018 models had a 94 Ah battery that delivered a 156-km range. In 2015 and 2016, it had a less efficient battery that delivered only a 116-km AER.
After the battery ran out, the i3 fired up its tiny generator fueled by an equally puny fuel tank. This added another 116 km of range in the 2019 to 2021 models, 129 km in 2017 and 2018 models, and 119 km in 2015 and 2016 models. All told, an i3 can get you 235 to 319 km of driving range with a full charge and fuel tank.
The i3 REx is also efficient in all-electric mode, turning in a fuel-efficiency rating of 2.0 to 2.4 Le/100km — the shorter AER models are more efficient. However, its hybrid fuel economy leaves a lot to be desired at 6.0 to 7.7 L/100km combined.
Chevrolet Volt
AER: 85 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.2 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 5.6 L/100km
The Chevy Volt features a stylish design and a PHEV powertrain that will suit nearly any Canadian driver. From model years 2016 through 2019, it boasted an 85-km AER, giving it plenty of range to get where you need to and return home. And if you've got a longer journey ahead of you, a full battery and a tank of gas will get you up to another 591 km for a total range of 676 km.
In hybrid mode, its fuel efficiency is good, not great, at up to 5.6 L/100km, but its all-electric efficiency is outstanding at 2.2 Le/100km.
Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
AER: 77 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2.1 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 5.6 L/100km
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid delivers a mature look that isn't overly futuristic. Plus, it has a respectable 77-km AER on a full charge, giving it plenty of driving range without needing a charger at your destination.
If you're going on a road trip, the Clarity is prepared with a 475-km hybrid range with a full tank, giving you a total range of 552 km.
The Clarity's equivalent fuel economy in electric mode is stellar at 2.1 Le/100km, and its hybrid fuel economy isn't bad at 5.6 L/100km combined.
Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid
AER: 47 km
Fuel-Efficiency Equivalent: 2 Le/100km
Hybrid Fuel Efficiency: 4.5 L/100km
The 2021-2022 Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid is a great option in the PHEV space with its 47-km AER. For those looking to go longer distances, the IONIC can travel up to 1,001 km with a full battery pack and a full tank of fuel.
The IONIC's all-electric fuel-efficiency equivalent is also great at just 2 Le/100km. Its hybrid consumption is also on point at just 4.5 L/100km combined.
On top of all this, the IONIQ is stylish and unique, so you're sure to be satisfied by its looks for years to come.
Find the Best Plug-in Hybrids in Canada at Clutch
Whether it's to save on fuel costs, cut emissions, or both, a plug-in hybrid is a great option. At Clutch, you'll find a wide range of the best plug-in hybrids in Canada, so you have plenty of options.
On top of a wide selection of pre-owned plug-in hybrids, you also know you're getting a quality vehicle at Clutch. All our vehicles go through a 210-point inspection and reconditioning process to ensure they're top-notch.
Browse Clutch.ca today and see all our in-stock plug-in hybrid vehicles. While you're searching, you can also apply for financing and get a firm value on your trade-in vehicle, if you have one.
