Best Hybrid Hatchbacks | 2024 Ratings

Hybrid hatchbacks are typically equipped with efficiency-minded powertrains and make for excellent city runabouts. Though many small cars have been discontinued in the USA due to the growing demand for SUV vehicles, there are still some automakers active in this class. Toyota is working especially hard with its updated Prius to ensure buyers still have a reliable and efficient hatchback for all purposes. Even if they don’t always have the best passenger space, hybrid hatchbacks are still a perfect viable choice for those who need to get around the city or just want a commuter that doubles as the grocery hauler. Here we list some of the best hybrid hatchbacks of 2024.

1 2024 Toyota Prius

Since the introduction of the new-generation Prius, it has become more desirable to a wider audience. Previously, the hybrid hatchback was only known for its great fuel economy, but was widely regarded as not very handsome. The 2024 Toyota Prius continues the styling updates to showcase a sleek look and still great fuel economy. Only now, it’s more engaging, not as slow, and slightly more luxurious inside.

This Prius touts a larger engine than the old generation; itt has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 194 horsepower in front-wheel-drive models, and 196 horsepower if you select an all-wheel-drive model. Despite a larger engine, it’s still a given that the Prius has great gas mileage, with the EPA estimating the most fuel efficient model to return 57/56/57 mpg city/highway/combined.

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Expert Opinion

Inside, there’s a more luxurious cabin than ever, and under the hood, the performance has been given an adrenaline shot. This isn’t the Prius you’re used to.

2 2024 Toyota Prius Prime

Like the regular Prius, the Prius Prime is better looking and more luxurious than the old model. What sets the Prius Prime apart from the standard Prius is its plug-in hybrid system. While the standard Prius is a conventional hybrid, the Prime model lets you plug it in for even more power, better fuel efficiency when combined with electric power, and an all-electric range.

The Prime has the same 2.0-liter engine as the standard model, but combined with a plug-in hybrid motor, it has 220 hp. One of the best reasons to spend a bit more on the Prime, though, is its all-electric range of over 40 miles.

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3 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe

Far from a conventional hatchback, let alone a conventional hybrid, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance nevertheless has the sloping rear hatch and hybrid powertrain that qualifies it for a place on this list. The hybrid system is more about achieving peak performance than efficiency. Combined outputs of 831 hp and 1,032 lb-ft result in a blistering 0-60 mph time of only 2.8 seconds, yet the GT 63 S E can also be driven on electric power alone. Most of the time, you’ll want to enjoy the sound of that 4.0-liter V8, though.

Besides its stupendous performance, this Mercedes has a lavishly trimmed interior with every conceivable luxury, but the trunk only measures 11.8 cubic feet, significantly less than the non-hybrid GT 63 4-Door’s 16.1 cubic feet.

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Characteristics Of Hybrid Hatchbacks

There are only a few hybrid hatchbacks on the market, but those models that remain all share some traits that make them successful:

• Size: In general, hatchbacks are small cars designed with city living in mind. They easily maneuver through traffic and can slot into parking spots that most other cars wouldn’t dare to. Their compact nature also makes them easy to drive and also affects their fuel economy.
• Powertrain: Naturally, you can’t have a hybrid hatchback car without a hybrid powertrain. Due to their limited size and weight, the engines don’t need to be overly powerful. Plug-in hybridization can boost outputs, but it’s more about improving efficiency. This does require charging your car between uses, which can be frustrating for some.
• Practicality: Though small in size, the average hybrid hatch is big on space, at least when it comes to trunk space. The cabin prioritizes front passenger comfort, while the rear can sometimes feel cramped.
• Price: Hatches are among the most affordable vehicles you can buy, but when you opt for a plug-in hybrid hatchback, you have to budget a little extra. The additional investment is quickly recouped by the impressive mpg figures these cars achieve.

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What To Consider When Buying A New Hybrid Hatchback

Buying a car is a big decision, so you need to make sure that a new hybrid hatchback is the one for you. Carefully weigh these pros and cons before making a final decision.

Pros

• Peppy and nimble in urban environments
• Considerably frugal on fuel consumption
• Relatively affordable as semi-electric cars

Cons

• Cabin quality and passenger room are often subpar
• Popular compact SUVs are more practical
• Very few hybrid hatchbacks on sale

What’s the best hybrid hatchback of 2024 in terms of fuel economy?

The base Toyota Prius returns an impressive 57 mpg combined, but since it is a normal hybrid and not a plug-in, it has no all-electric range.

Are there any AWD hybrid hatchbacks?

The Toyota Prius still offers the option of an AWD system.

What is the most affordable hybrid hatchback?

With a starting price just north of $28,000, the Toyota Prius is the cheapest hybrid hatchback on the market right now.

Sources: Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, EPA