The Best Hybrid Cars, SUVs and Trucks to Consider

Photo: Antoine Joubert

Hybrid vehicles have surged in popularity across Canada in the past year, boosted by slowing demand for fully electric and plug-in hybrid models. Easy for risk-averse drivers to adopt, they are more financially accessible than EVs and simpler to maintain than PHEVs. Hybrid technology improves fuel economy and, in some cases, increases power and performance at the same time.

We’ve previously listed the most fuel-efficient cars and most fuel-efficient SUVs you can buy, but here is a selection of some of the best hybrids (excluding PHEVs) worth considering. These address a variety of wants and needs while covering a wide price range.

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Note: Prices shown are MSRPs (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices) at the time of publication and are subject to change. They do not include applicable taxes, discounts or fees. Fuel economy ratings combine city and highway driving and are provided by Natural Resources Canada.

Ford Maverick – MSRP starting from $34,600 (2025)

Five years after its launch, the Maverick still has no real competitors. With its small yet versatile cargo bed, a long list of available accessories and towing capacity of up to 4,000 lbs (when selecting all-wheel drive and the 4K Towing Package), Ford’s compact pickup embodies the definition of a recreational truck. The understated interior and modest content allow the company to keep prices down, matching those of a much less practical compact SUV.

Combined fuel consumption: 6.2 L/100 km.

Honda Civic – MSRP starting from $34,100

Introduced for 2025, the Honda Civic's excellent hybrid powertrain enhances the driving experience of this fun, efficient and refined compact sedan. Sure, it’s more expensive than direct rivals, but low depreciation and reasonable maintenance costs help compensate. The Honda CR-V Hybrid shares the Civic's system but benefits from all-wheel drive. It also shares The Car Guide’s Best Buy award in the compact SUV segment with the Toyota RAV4.

Combined fuel consumption: 4.9 L/100 km.

Hyundai Santa Fe – MSRP starting from $43,799

Beyond its polarizing exterior that can turn some potential customers off, the Santa Fe shines when it comes to value and space. Aside from the closely related Kia Sorento, three-row SUVs with available hybrid tech are significantly more expensive (Hyundai Palisade, Mazda CX-90, Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander), although they do offer more interior space.

Combined fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km.

Kia Carnival – MSRP starting from $47,945

The Kia Carnival is a refreshing alternative to classic minivans. In addition to bold styling, it appeals to modern families with plenty of desirable technology and an optional hybrid system. No SUV the size of the Carnival offers as much space, and no competitor gives you as much bang for your buck. The Toyota Sienna is also worth considering, even though it costs more. It has available all-wheel drive and achieves even better fuel economy than the Kia.

Combined fuel consumption: 7.2 L/100 km.

Kia Niro – MSRP starting from $30,845

In Kia's lineup, the Niro is in a tough spot alongside the Seltos (a similarly sized subcompact SUV) and the K4 Hatchback (which offers a decent versatility), not to mention the upcoming EV3 (all-electric). However, its compact size belies a spacious trunk, and its reliability record makes it a safer pick than many new competitors designed from scratch. Oh, and the Niro also happens to be the single most fuel-efficient vehicle in Canada and the second-least expensive hybrid after the Toyota Corolla Hybrid.

Combined fuel consumption: 4.4 L/100 km.

Lexus RX – MSRP starting from $63,295

While luxury automakers tend to focus on gasoline engines, PHEVs and electric vehicles, Lexus has diversified its hybrid lineup, headlined by the RX midsize SUV. Customers can choose between the RX 350h (246 hp, 6.5 L/100 km) and the RX 500h (367 hp, 8.6 L/100 km). Both models further stand out with remarkable build quality and quiet interiors. In this segment, you might also want to check out the Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid (310 hp, 7.9 L/100 km) or the Lexus TX Hybrid (for a third row of seats).

Combined fuel consumption: 6.5 L/100 km.

Mazda CX-50 – MSRP starting from $42,950 (2025)

Although Canadian countertariffs on U.S.-made vehicles have limited its availability (good luck finding one at your local dealer), this compact SUV stands out with premium looks and sharp handling. As for motivation, the CX-50 Hybrid borrows its efficient powertrain from the outgoing Toyota RAV4 while preserving the CX-50's refined driving experience. On the other hand, road noise is noticeable and most competitors prove more practical.

Combined fuel consumption: 6.2 L/100 km.

Toyota Corolla – MSRP starting from $27,740

The Toyota Corolla is one of four compact cars in Canada available with hybrid technology. It’s right up there with the Civic Hybrid among the best, earning praise thanks to its lower price point and available all-wheel drive system. The latter, while not exceptional, improves traction in winter. Furthermore, the Corolla's reliability, durability and resale value are outstanding.

Combined fuel consumption: 4.7 L/100 km.

Toyota Prius – MSRP starting from $38,365

Bridging the gap between the Corolla Hybrid and the Camry, which reigns supreme in the midsize car segment, the Prius is more luxurious than the former and more compact than the latter. Driving dynamics are a world apart from previous generations, and its bold design sets the tone. However, depending on the driver's height, the steering wheel tends to block the instrument panel. The sloping roofline limits headroom in the rear, and some ergonomic issues need to be fixed.

Combined fuel consumption: 4.8 L/100 km.

Toyota RAV4 – MSRP starting from $36,635 (2025)

The Toyota RAV4 debuts a new generation for 2026, and while styling remains true to the outgoing model, the technological evolution is significant. Highlights include a brand new infotainment system and the elimination of gasoline-only models. All RAV4s going forward will be electrified, with fuel economy improving to a segment-best 5.6 L/100 km according to Toyota estimates. The new RAV4 Hybrid is also one of the most powerful SUVs in its class at 236 horsepower, and it boasts the best towing capacity (up to 3,500 lbs). As we wait for MY2026 prices, check out our first-drive review.

Combined fuel consumption: Toyota-estimated 5.6 L/100 km (official NRC rating to follow).

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