These Affordable PHEVs Are Perfect For Beating The $4 Gas Price Blues

By Sean McManus

With gas prices reaching over $4 per gallon in the United States, many of us are left wondering why we bought such inefficient cars to begin with. Sometimes the joy of driving is enough to justify poor fuel efficiency, but in times like these, having a vehicle that doesn't eat away at your wallet every time you push the accelerator would be nice. That said, there are plenty of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models on sale that can save you stacks of cash in the long run.

Regular hybrid models are usually less expensive than plug-in hybrids, but models like the Toyota Prius are available with either type of powertrain. In this list, we'll go over the nine cheapest PHEVs on sale this year; that includes a 2025 model year vehicle, since it's still on sale this calendar year and represents the latest of what that automaker has to offer.

Note

All specs are gathered directly from the manufacturer. Prices are correct at the time of writing, and exclude destination, options, taxes, and other fees. Automakers reserve the right to change pricing at any time without notice. This list is organized from least to most efficient in terms of combined MPGe.

2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Fuel Efficiency: 56 MPGe Combined

This list encapsulates the least-expensive plug-in hybrid models on sale today — most of them start at under $45,000, but the Mazda CX-90 might be worth stretching your budget for. There aren't many affordable three-row SUVs in general, let alone models with plug-in hybrid powertrains at a reasonable price. This Mazda features a relatively efficient system that can also drive up to 27 miles on electric power alone. Its interior feels premium and looks more expensive than it is, too. Those of you with larger families should consider this high-end, good-looking, and efficient midsize SUV.

2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV

Fuel Efficiency: 61 MPGe Combined

For an even more affordable Mazda with the same powertrain as the last entry, try the CX-70 PHEV. Essentially everything under the hood of this model is the same as its more expensive sibling - it uses the same 2.5L four-cylinder PHEV system that makes the same 323 total horsepower, but it's a two-row model that seats fewer people. With its decreased weight by removing a row of seats and carrying fewer passengers, the CX-70 PHEV is even more efficient. Despite the lower entry price, this Mazda feels just as premium on the inside and on the road.

2026 Nissan Rogue PHEV

Fuel Efficiency: 64 MPGe Combined

All-new for the 2026 model year is Nissan's first plug-in hybrid Rogue. This model isn't exactly a bargain, nudging just north of $45,000, but we feel as though it may be worth considering anyway. Here's the deal with the Rogue PHEV: it's basically a re-badged Mitsubishi Outlander. We'll talk more about that in the next section. What matters more is that this version of the Rogue is rather efficient with 64 MPGE combined, it can drive 38 miles on electric power alone, and it has standard all-wheel drive. Our road tester explained that it's quite comfortable while driving with soft suspension and good control.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Fuel Efficiency: 64 MPGe Combined

The only 2025 model on this list is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. We only include it since it's technically still on sale today, and a 2026 model year version is not available at the time of writing. Nevertheless, buyers who want the new Nissan Rogue PHEV could save almost five thousand dollars by choosing this one instead. It's essentially the same car, with the same powertrain, similar styling and shape, and the exact same fuel economy. However, the automaker notes that the Outlander PHEV will gain more total horsepower and have an even better electric range when its 2026 model year is released.

2026 Hyundai Tucson PHEV

Fuel Efficiency: 77 MPGe Combined

The Tucson is Hyundai's most popular model. In fact, not only is it the brand's most popular SUV, it was one of the best-selling SUVs in the country in 2025. Making up a portion of those sales is the model's plug-in hybrid variant. It costs a bit more than the standard hybrid version, but this PHEV comes with 32 miles of all-electric range and 77 combined MPGe to make up for it. It takes on the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V in the compact SUV segment, which makes its price look even more affordable in comparison.

Sources: Toyota, Mazda, Kia, Ford, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan

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This article originally appeared on CarBuzz and is republished here with permission.