Not everyone is ready for an EV yet. Plug-in hybrids (aka PHEVs) can be — at least in theory— a compelling EV alternative that offers the best of all worlds (if used correctly). An owner can deploy the battery for short trips and commutes while having the flexibility for an easier, long-distance road trip with the internal combustion engine. And many PHEV batteries can charge overnight on a conventional outlet without requiring a Level 2 charger.
One issue is that PHEVs tend not to be too affordable. They are typically built by adding an expensive battery pack to an existing combustion vehicle. However, certain PHEVs are eligible for federal tax credits. And if you are searching around, there are some great deals on PHEVs to be found.
Gallery: 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Review
Best Budget PHEV Deal: Toyota Prius Prime
- Starting MSRP: $32,795
- Horsepower: 220
- EV-only Range: 44 miles
Toyota crushed it with the recent Prius overhaul. It’s sportier, less dorky-looking, and packs some of the best hybrid battery tech available. The Prius Prime is America’s cheapest PHEV, starting at $32,795. And it delivers the most range among affordable PHEVs, 44 miles. The Prius Prime isn’t eligible for a tax credit. However, Toyota is throwing in $4,500 in lease cash to sweeten the deal in certain states.
Gallery: 2024 Lexus NX450+ PHEV Review
Best Luxury PHEV Deal: Lexus NX 450h+
- Starting MSRP: $62,415
- Horsepower: 304
- EV-only Range: 37 miles
The NX 450h+ is the top-of-the-line PHEV version of Lexus’s compact crossover. It puts out 304 horsepower, accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds and provides 37 miles of EV-only range. Starting at $62,415, the NX 450h+ is not particularly affordable. However, Lexus has been lowering the price of leases in certain states, with $9,500 in lease cash for 2024 models and $7,500 on 2025 models.
Gallery: Jeep Wrangler 4xe Review
Best SUV PHEV Deal: Jeep Wrangler Sport 4xe
- Starting MSRP: $50,695
- Horsepower: 370
- EV-only Range: 21 miles
The Wrangler 4xe formula is impressive on paper. It’s the most potent non-V8 powertrain in the Wrangler lineup with 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It offers 21 miles of EV-only range. And with eye-popping deals coming off a major recall, it may be among the most affordable Wrangler options. Jeep is currently offering 0% APR financing for 72 months or $7,500 cashback in addition to its $3,750 tax credit. Jeep also appears—at least in some zip codes—to be offering up to $15,000 off on lease deals.
Gallery: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (2025)
Best Crossover PHEV Deal: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SE
- Starting MSRP: $40,445
- Horsepower: 248
- EV-only Range: 38 miles
Yes, we hear you. Mitsubishi isn’t the first brand you think of when buying your new family crossover. But the Outlander PHEV may change your mind. It approaches the Prius Prime-level EV-only range at 38 miles. Every trim level starts under $50,000, allowing you to fully load one for the price of the average new car in America. Lease deals on the second-tier SE trim can get the monthly price down to the low $300s per month.
Gallery: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Review
Best Family PHEV Deal: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
- Starting MSRP: $51,250
- Horsepower: 260
- EV-only Range: 32 miles
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has been around for a while. But it still offers a competitive PHEV package. It’s the only plug-in hybrid minivan, with 32 miles of EV-only range, seating for seven and a potential 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space. It’s the only PHEV eligible for the full $7,500 tax credit. Chrysler is offering incentives similar to those of the Wrangler 4xe. Pacifica owners can get access to 0% APR for 72 months of credit or an additional $7,500 cash back.
