Best Used Hybrid Cars for Every Budget in 2023

Hybrid cars combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, offering eco-friendliness, reliability, and excellent fuel efficiency. There is a wide range of used hybrids available, and many reasons to consider buying one. In this article, we will explore the hybrid car market and show you the best used hybrid cars to buy in 2023.

Going Green and Saving Big: Advantages of Buying a Used Hybrid Today

When the first generation of the Prius appeared, most people considered them a passing trend, a product for hipsters and celebrities. However, hybrids arrived to stay and have been gaining popularity in the last few years. Technological improvements in electronics, batteries, and motors, added to the growing concerns about climate change and the need for more sustainable transportation, have led automotive manufacturers to release hybrid vehicles and keep improving the technology.

A little over 20 years of the worldwide release of the Prius, there is a broad offer of hybrid vehicles at accessible prices and benefits such as reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and low maintenance costs. Besides, hybrid cars bring many safety and comfort features and have proven to be dependable and long-lasting. They come in different sizes, shapes, and power to suit different needs, from compact or urban cars to large SUVs.
New hybrid vehicles are often among the highest trim levels, so they have a considerably high price tag. If you consider that manufacturers offer extended warranties for most models’ batteries, motors, and transmissions, buying a well-maintained hybrid provides excellent value for your money. You don’t have to spend as much as you would buying a new unit and save money on expenses such as insurance, added to what you will save on fuel. All this with the peace of mind that you will enjoy the vehicle for many years without further issues. It’s a win-win for you and the environment.

Below, you will find more benefits of using hybrid cars, and we will show you the best used hybrid cars for every budget in 2023 and give you some tips for buying used hybrids. So, hang in there to uncover a new world of amazing possibilities and dive into an incredible hybrid car journey.

Discovering the Benefits Of Hybrids: Our Top Picks for 2023

Using hybrid cars comes with many benefits. Let’s take a look at the most important ones:

• Fuel Efficiency: We can’t stress it enough; hybrids combine a relatively small and efficient internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This results in outstanding fuel efficiency compared to conventional vehicles, considerably reducing fuel consumption.
• Environmental Friendliness: Thanks to their electric motor and regenerative braking systems, these vehicles have significantly fewer emissions than their conventional counterparts, helping to reduce air pollution.
• Energy Savings: Hybrids use regenerative braking, a technology that turns the kinetic energy generated from braking into electricity that charges the electric motor while driving. Besides, some hybrids, called PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles), allow plugging the vehicle into the electric grid or charging stations to reload the batteries and choose between hybrid or fully-electric driving. These vehicles have enough autonomy to run without fuel in the city or on short to medium trips.
• One-Pedal Driving: Many hybrid cars offer the feature of “one-pedal driving” This technology allows the driver to control the vehicle’s speed using only the accelerator pedal, as lifting the foot off the pedal activates the regenerative braking system, enhancing the energy efficiency and reducing wear on the brakes. Besides, when combined with features such as adaptive cruise control, it allows you to drive more relaxed, even on populated highways.
• Financial Savings: Hybrids usually qualify for tax incentives, rebates, and lower insurance rates. In Singapore, some hybrid vehicles are eligible for an ARF rebate, a Road Tax Rebate, which results in lower annual road tax payments, and they are eligible for rebates as low carbon emission vehicles.
• Reduced Maintenance: Hybrid cars need less maintenance than conventional vehicles. The regenerative braking system puts less strain on the brake pads and discs, and the engine experiences less wear thanks to the help of the electric motor when departing from a stop.
• Quiet And Smooth Driving: Hybrids have a smooth driving experience, reducing noise pollution and enhancing comfort.
• Advanced Features: Hybrid vehicles often bring advanced features, such as smart driving aids, safety systems, and infotainment options, providing a modern and enjoyable driving experience.
• Sleek Design And Luxury: Hybrid vehicles usually have an appealing exterior and, as they are usually available among the higher trim levels, they feature comfortable and high-end interiors with excellent materials and terminations.

The Best Used Hybrid Cars For Every Budget In 2023

This is our selection of the best used hybrid cars for every budget in 2023. Let’s take a look!

Budget Option 1: Toyota Prius (2018-2019)

The Toyota Prius is the car that started the hybrid movement and is one of the most reliable used hybrid cars today. The 2028-2019 Prius are fourth-generation units (the current generation is the 5th), so they are close to the new units you can find in the dealerships. It has Toyota’s quality and reliability stamp and features a distinctive and aerodynamic design, conceived not just for aesthetics but for improving fuel efficiency.

The interior looks futuristic, with a fully digital instrument cluster and a fair-sized infotainment screen. The vehicle offers a pleasant ride and outstanding mpg thanks to its refined hybrid engine and efficient automatic transmission. The vehicle’s suspension is well-tuned for a smooth ride, and users and specialized press worldwide have praised the overall vehicle’s performance and safety.

You can find low-mileage 2018 and 2019 units for about 40 or 50 percent of the value you would pay for a new one, making it a really interesting choice for people looking for their first hybrid experience.

Budget Option 2: Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid (2017-2018)

The 2017-2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is a great hybrid car that combines fuel efficiency with modern features. With its sleek design and aerodynamic profile, the Ioniq Hybrid offers an attractive and contemporary appearance.

Under the hood, the Ioniq Hybrid features a hybrid powertrain that consists of a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The petrol engine is a 1.6 direct-injection system, and the novelty is that instead of a regular 4-stroke engine, this engine is an Atkinson-type engine, which is more efficient than a standard engine. This combination provides a smooth, efficient driving experience with outstanding fuel efficiency and low emissions.

Inside, the vehicle is comfortable and provides generous space for the front and rear passengers. The interior may not look as futuristic as you would expect, but it looks appealing and is made of high-quality materials. The car brings advanced safety features, and driving aids, such as lane keep assist, blind spot detection, and forward collision warning, ensuring and comfortable driving experience.

The vehicle delivers responsive handling and a smooth ride as the hybrid system automatically couples the electric motor when extra power is needed. In terms of size, the Ioniq Hybrid and the Toyota Prius have similar dimensions. Both vehicles belong to the compact car segment and offer comfortable seating for up to five passengers.

These models cost a little more than the Prius, but they offer more features for about the same price.

Mid-Range Option 1: Honda Accord Hybrid (2020)

The Hybrid Honda Accord has all the features you would expect of the classic petrol versions with a plus. It’s an efficient, high-performance sedan with a sleek and stylish design. It’s, without a doubt, a head-turner.

The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor that delivers a total power of almost 200HP. The petrol engine it’s of the Atkinson type to bring the vehicle incredible fuel efficiency for such a powerful engine. Besides, as you would expect of a sedan of this kind, the vehicle has high autonomy, ideal for long journeys.

When you press the gas pedal to the floor, you can feel the 200HP kick in, providing an enjoyable driving experience.

The Accord Hybrid has a spacious and luxurious environment, comfortable seats, and ample room for the front and rear passengers. The advanced infotainment system is modern, and the sound system is fantastic.

The Honda Accord Hybrid 2020 has advanced safety features and driving aids like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking.

This vehicle is an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful yet fuel-efficient vehicle with ample interior room, stylish design, and advanced features. In terms of price, you can find excellent units for about 40% or less than a new unit’s retail price.

Mid-Range Option 2: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2019-2020)

This SUV is a great choice for users looking for a family or off-road vehicle, as it’s powerful, and all trims feature 4×4 traction. Its design looks tough but refined and attractive at the same time.

The electric motor is paired with an Atkinson 2.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine with an outstanding 202 HP. This advanced hybrid technology maximizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.

The interior is spacious and comfortable, with high-quality materials and modern features. All trims of the Hybrid bring a user-friendly infotainment system and plenty of safety features and driving aids. The cargo space is generous, and it’s a good choice for big families who are looking to travel comfortably.

This SUV is well balanced between an on and off-road vehicle, and it’s great for long travels and some all-terrain fun. In terms of price, they have significant demand, but you will find low-mileage units for 30% or less than the new units’ retail price.

Luxury Option 1: Lexus ES 300h (2018-2019)

This luxury hybrid sedan is part of the 7th generation of the ES line. It’s comfortable, fuel-efficient, and fast for hybrid cars’ standards. Its exterior looks elegant and sportier, and the front grille gives it an aggressive look that infers what’s under the hood.

The sophisticated hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor that delivers an outstanding 215 HP, allowing this beauty to go from 0 to 60 mph in about 8,1 seconds. Even when it’s not meant to be a sport sedan, it offers a fun driving experience without compromising comfort and refinement.

The suspension is outstanding, as you would expect of a vehicle of this class, capable of absorbing road imperfections smoothly and effectively, providing a soft and comfortable ride.

Despite its soft suspension, this sedan handles well and ensures a safe grip under demanding driving circumstances.

The Lexus ES 300h’s interior is well crafted and looks modern but sober. The surfaces are soft to the touch, and you can notice premium materials and high-quality craftsmanship as soon you open the door. The vehicle’s long wheelbase helps to offer ample legroom for front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable but supportive, and the sound insulation is almost perfect, ensuring a quiet and smooth driving experience.

The price of the 2018 and 2019 units starts at about 40% less than that of a new one.

Luxury Option 2: Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid (2020)

This SUV belongs to the third generation of the Cayenne model family. It combines a regular Porsche’s power and performance with a hybrid drivetrain’s efficiency.

The Cayenne E-Hybrid features a plug-in hybrid system paired to a 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine matched to an 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission. This combination delivers an impressive 456HP and 700 Nm of torque (516 lb-ft). The SUV can go from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in just 5.0 seconds with a top speed of 252 km/h. This SUV has a full-electric range of 43km.

The design of the Cayenne E-Hybrid is aggressive and sportive, with sleek lines and a sculpted, muscular body featuring the iconic Porsche styling cues.

The interior is luxurious but without losing the sportive essence of the German brand, made of high-quality materials and attention to detail. The cockpit provides ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, and the seats offer excellent comfort and support for long drives.

In terms of handling, the Cayenne E-Hybrid delivers the exceptional driving dynamics that Porsche is renowned for. The steering is precise, and the large brakes are highly efficient. The adjustable suspension allows the driver to choose among different driving levels depending on the intended use. It can be as stiff as a sportscar or soft as a luxury daily driver.

The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid delivers cutting-edge technology and an amazing and thrilling driving experience. The German brand achieved to make a hybrid that feels and drives like a traditional sportscar. If you seek the best of both worlds, a balance between eco-friendliness and power, this is the right vehicle for you.

Wrapping Up

In 2023, the market of used hybrid cars offers a range of options to suit everyone’s budget.
Hybrid vehicles are not a passenger trend and arrived to stay. Combining internal combustion engines with electric motors and sophisticated transmissions proves eco-friendly, reliable, and fuel-efficient. You can find hybrids in all sizes, power levels, and shapes, all sharing the same fundamental characteristics that make them attractive.

Buying a well-maintained used hybrid provides the best value for money, allowing you to save even more. If you are interested in buying a used SUV, check our tips for evaluating a used hybrid car below:

Tips For Evaluating A Used Hybrid Car

1. Research Well: Take the time to research and compare different hybrid models, their features, and pricing to make an informed decision.
2. Consider Your Needs: Determine your specific needs and preferences regarding size, performance, and available features.
3. Set a Budget: Establish a budget and stick to it. Remember to consider not only the purchase price but also ongoing expenses such as insurance, maintenance, insurance, fuel consumption, and others.
4. Inspect Well and Test Drive: Always inspect the vehicle thoroughly and take it for a test drive to assess its condition, performance, and overall suitability for your needs.
   Pay special attention to the hybrid system and regenerative braking performance.
5. Battery Condition: Check the battery’s health and the remaining warranty. Ask for maintenance records and ensure the battery has been well-maintained and is not showing signs of degradation.
6. Charging System: If the hybrid has a plug-in feature, check the charging system for proper functioning. Ensure the charger, cables, and connections are in good condition.
7. Seek For Professional Help: If possible, have a professional mechanic inspect the SUV before making a final decision to identify any potential mechanical problems.
8. Get The Vehicle History: Obtain a detailed vehicle history report to ensure there aren’t hidden issues or major accidents. Also, double-check the hybrid car’s service history to ensure it has been regularly serviced and maintained. Look for any past issues or repairs related to the hybrid system and ensure they have been properly addressed.
9. Negotiate and Compare Prices: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price with the seller or dealership. Also, compare prices from different sources to ensure you get the best deal.
10. Take Your Time: Don’t rush into a decision. Don’t buy the first SUV you see; take your time to check some prospective vehicles and go for the one that feels right for you.

If you’re considering buying a used hybrid, It’s an excellent decision that benefits you and the planet. By going hybrid, you’ll save money on fuel and maintenance costs. Plus, you are making a positive impact on the environment by reducing emissions. You’ll enjoy the benefits of advanced technology, modern comforts, and a wide variety of models to suit your needs. So choose wisely and hit the road with confidence. You’re making a smart and eco-friendly choice. Happy driving!