Tag Archives: hybrids

Auto shows are in full swing. Manufacturers drop press release after press release. Suddenly, it seems like the car industry has almost finished healing from its ransacking at the hands of COVID and supply chain shortages, and new cars are more abundant and more alluring than ever. Affordable cars, dream cars, daily drivers, and high-performance piss missiles, oh my! It’s a fun, if polarizing, time to be a car nerd or even just a new car buyer, so let’s take a peek at some of the hottest new cars worth looking out for in the foreseeable future.

Genesis Magma lineup

Car gods, be praised! We whined, and they listened. Genesis has finally unveiled concepts for the Magma family, its future high-performance lineup in the same vein as BMW M, Mercedes AMG, Lexus F, and Audi Sport GmbH. Details of the cars are unknown, but there will be a mixed crop of EV and gasser Magma cars. First to hit the scene will be a full-production GV60 Magma EV and the limited-run G80 Magma Special.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

After a quintillion years in car years, the current-gen Toyota 4Runner will soon be the outgoing one, as Toyota teased an all-new iteration on their social media. Details are scarce other than a close-up image of the tailgate badge and the knowledge that it’ll most likely be based on the same architecture underpinning the Tacoma and Land Cruiser. Expect a 2024 reveal and a 2025 product release, as well as carryover 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid and non-hybrid powertrains from the Taco and Land Cruiser.

Ready for a new ride? Start your search at CarGurus

2025 Porsche 911 hybrid

Unlike most of the cars here, the 911 hybrid has not been officially revealed or teased in any capacity. But it’s coming. Test mules have been spotted meandering around Europe. Their appearances have only gotten more frequent with the turn of the new year, and some claim that we should expect an official debut come summer of 2024 when the 992.2 facelift arrives for the 2025 model year. We expect a 911 Hybrid to rock a turbocharged flat-six and a small lithium-ion battery driving all four wheels and enabling some trick torque vectoring.

Kia K5 hatchback (wagon)

Just look at it. Isn’t she a beauty? An affordable wagon. Leave it to the Koreans to at least style a car in a manner that at least exudes the vibe of upscale-ness, inside and out, even if we know it’ll be built to a low price point to sell at a low price point. Expect the standard K4 sedan’s naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter four pushing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet through a CVT and its 1.6-liter turbocharged powertrain pushing 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet through an eight-speed auto.

2025 Ford Mustang GTD

I know it’s probably beating a dead ‘Stang by now, but the GTD isn’t out yet! And it’s no less cool moseying around from rotating auto show pedestal to rotating auto show pedestal. For the seventeenth time, bask in its GT3 race car-inspired, soon-to-be-Nürburgring-lapping glory as Ford’s new six-figure halo car for Mustang and motorsports fans alike. Ford aims for 800 ponies out of the GT500-derived 5.2-liter supercharged V8 and a sub-seven-minute ‘Ring time.

‘Electrified’ Honda Prelude

Like the 911 Hybrid, the Prelude’s specs are all up in the air. But we know it’s coming. It has to atone for the death of the Accord and Civic coupes and the rise of the GR86/BRZ and Nissan Z. The concept shows off Michelin tires surrounding some stout Brembos, and maybe there’s even a hybridized Civic Si or Civic Type R motor under that hood.

2024 Dodge Charger

Considering Dodge’s recent moves toward electrifying its lineup, starting with the Dodge Hornet R/T, it’s no surprise that the new Charger Daytona swaps its iconic Hemi V8 for a 400-volt EV powertrain. For car enthusiasts, though, nothing quite matches the resounding charisma of an internal combustion engine. And they can still get that with the Hurricane-equipped Six Pack variant.

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

In a piece for TechRadar, Leon Poultney called the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N “the first genuinely fun EV.” And he’s not alone. While I haven’t had the chance to drive one,  in my New York Auto Show demo ride, I was blown away by how well it simulated the experience of being in a gas car—minus the carbon emissions.

2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger

I’m no truck guy, but the powertrain Ram conceptualized for the Ramcharger is like a Chevy Volt on steroids. Although it can plug into a DC fast charger for 145 miles of all-electric road time, this isn’t a full BEV. And despite the 3.6-liter V6 under its hood, the gas engine has no mechanical connection to the wheels. Instead, two electric motors—one in the front and one in the back—propel the Ramcharger, with the help of a 70.8-kWh battery not much smaller than that of a Tesla Model Y. Only when the battery dies does the engine go to work, burning fuel to recharge the battery if the battery runs out of juice and you can’t reach a charging station.

2025 Lucid Gravity

We’re all tired of third-row SUVs. Believe me, this Mazda CX-90 review sucked the soul out of me for like two months. Still, the Lucid Gravity appears to be one of the more polished examples in its class. Fans of the genre will appreciate its soft-touch premium interior, expansive infotainment displays, and for the Tesla-averse, physical inputs where they’re needed. Best of all, the front trunk doubles as a seat for reverse tailgate parties.

2027 Rivian R3

Remember the Lancia Delta? No? Well, then you probably live in America, where the five-door Italian hatchback was never released. Nonetheless, the Rivian R3 borrows from the Delta’s design language—or at least its wider-stance Integrale variant. The R3, however, is a cute little electric crossover built on Rivian’s new compact crossover platform—one I could very much see myself in when the Tonale lease is up in a few years. Oh yeah. I said a few years since Rivian was so kind, giving us from its 2024 unveil to its speculated 2027 release to drool over it.

Growing up, I earned my learner’s permit driving my mother’s absolutely ratchet first-generation Honda Civic Hybrid. Remember that piece of boring, banal, borderline-indistinguishable, and certainly unmemorable mediocrity? Hopefully not. However, a couple of years after I stepped up to adulthood and earned my license, my mom bought a 2008 Toyota Prius. In those days, the purposefully fugly second-gen Prius served as something of a West LA status symbol but also served the fam well as a damned good car: getting superb mileage, with plenty of room for pets and gear, and over the years, proved reliable as the day is long (once we installed a cat shield to foil constant thievery, anyhow). 

But more about the old Prius later because last year—boom!—Toyota hit us with a total redesign, a radical revamp, a veritable resuscitation of the entire concept of the commuter hybrid. And now, I finally got the chance to revisit those early days of hybrid driving in a 2024 Prius Prime, the plug-in version that best suits this West LA commuter crowd.

Skip to section:

• Specs
• Design
• Pricing
• Interior and tech
• A Prius in its prime
• Conclusion

Price and specs

Toyota Prius Prime: see prices at CarGurus

Base price:	$32,975
As-tested price:	$34,434
Engine:	2.0-liter inline-four with dual electric motors
Transmission:	Single-speed + CVT
Drivetrain:	Front-wheel drive
Power:	220 horsepower combined
Torque:	139 pound-feet
Weight:	3,461 pounds (3,571 pounds as-tested)
0-60 mph:	6.7s (11.2s in full EV mode)
¼-mile:	15.1 seconds @ 94 mph (hybrid), 18.7 seconds @ 75 mph in (full EV)
Top speed:	112 mph
MPG:	50 city, 47 highway, 48 combined
Battery capacity:	13.6-kWh lithium-ion
All-electric range:	44 miles (39 miles as tested)

Prius Prime exterior design

Toyota’s advertising campaign leading up to the LA Auto Show debut of the new Prius ended up coming across as a bit funny since, even considering the svelte and futuristic styling, nobody will ever consider this common car a “black sheep.” And yet, damn if that new design doesn’t hit the nail on the head. Just look at the pics! Anyone remember the first-gen Echo twin? My, how far we’ve come.

Now, my boss here at Acceleramota has already covered the “base” (non-Prime) Prius, so go ahead and click back through his review before continuing to learn more about my time with the Prime. 

The only thing I might add, in terms of exterior styling, is that I parked the Prime next to my mother’s still-cranking, sun-faded, and bird-shit-splattered 2008 Prius just for comparison—and the new car’s roofline looked around five or six inches lower! So much so that I actually Googled the official measurements. It turns out the 2024 model rides exactly 2.8 inches shorter. Not as much as my eyeballs perceived, in fairness, but a serious statement about how stellar styling can make so much of a difference in a car’s profile and presence.

What’s hot?

– Some style, at last – Plug-in hybrid system allows for choice at a reasonable cost – Simple, stark interior – Noticeably improved aerodynamics – Vastly improved performance and handling

Prius Prime pricing breakdown 

The non-Prime that Jeric drove starts at $27,950, and adding the plug-in capabilities bumps the price up by $5,025. The Prime comes in three trim levels, with the SE at the bottom of the gradewalk sporting manually-adjustable fabric seats, an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, a slicktop roof, and 17-inch wheels for max range. Stepping up to the XSE swaps on 19-inch wheels, which result in slightly less electric range and diminished fuel economy stats, plus a parking assist system. And the XSE Premium, topping the lineup at a $39,670 MSRP, comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and the choice of a glass roof or an optional solar panel roof to soak up photons on sunny days.

As tested, my SE tester’s window sticker reads just about as basic as possible. Options limited to a cargo mat in the rear, door sill protectors, and wheel locks result in a $34,434 price tag—almost how I might spec my own Prius Prime. Leather or faux-leather seats might be nice for my pets and the generally filthy life I lead.

2023 Toyota Prius XLE review: a handsome hybrid that’s shockingly fun to drive

Prius Prime interior and tech

As on a non-plug-in Prius, most of the interior and tech options come standard depending on the Prime’s trim levels: both the eight-incher and the larger screen support wireless Apple CarPlay, thankfully. For Prime specifically, though, the small gauge cluster display needs to combine EV and ICE readouts. The resulting barrage of constantly shifting charge levels, range estimates, so-called “EcoScore” and “EcoZone” stats, and driver aid widgets all get lost in their own wash, to an extent.

Toggling to a simplified screen cleans up some of the mess, and really, just drive more slowly to max out the range in either HV (hybrid) or EV (fully electric) mode. Otherwise, the rest of the interior—despite a lower roofline—comes across as spacious and simple, with plenty of leg and headroom for tall drivers (even in the backseat).

And kudos to Toyota for delivering a straightforward design exactly as it should be: just a toaster that toasts toast as efficiently as possible.

It’s finally Prime Day!

A bit of battery power goes a long way

Slotted in between one of the most ridiculous press loaner schedules of my professional career—as I played car Tetris with a Ferrari 296 GTS, Porsche 911 Dakar, Bentley Continental GTC Azure, and an MV Agusta Dragster America—the Prime was arguably the most important car. And I can admit to feeling a bit of excitement before actually receiving it!

Too excited, maybe, because I promptly ruined the all-electric range without even realizing it by driving straight out to the Valley in full EV mode. A big whoops but a nice lesson on figuring out the toggles and switchgear before blasting through traffic in a plug-in hybrid (while thinking that Toyota had finally solved the hybrid drone sound the whole time). But luckily, I always snag a pic of the odometer when I first get into a press car so I can report my stats and figures for that inaugural drive.

In all, I used 68% of the reported battery capacity to drive 21 entirely unaware all-electric miles. That falls right in line with the claimed EV range of 44 miles, and even better, over the course of that jaunt, the overall combined EV and ICE range actually went up by three miles.

Next, I used the supplied charge cable (housed beneath the rear cargo deck) to plug into a standard 120-volt garage outlet for almost exactly three hours. In that time, the Prime added 33% charge—again, just about spot on for the onboard computer’s prediction of a nine-hour window to fully charge up the petite 13.6-kWh lithium-ion battery. Then I drove 11 more miles in hybrid mode and checked in again to discover that doing so used zero additional percent of battery charge. 

I spent the rest of my time in the Prime trying to max out the hybrid and EV range, but I also pushed a little harder just for fun. More official testing might skew the results, presumably, but so far, Toyota’s engineering seems pretty perfect. Especially considering the typical use case, when commuters might do most of their daily driving in full EV mode and top off the battery at home every night. For longer road trips—after remembering to remember to switch into HV mode—driving over 500 miles per 10.6-gallon tank shouldn’t even require too much hypermiling diligence.

Lower, sleeker, faster, stronger

On the 405 freeway, always a true test of suspension dynamics, the Prime’s lower and tighter suspension definitely produces a bit more rollicking than a second-gen Prius. But then again, in town or on a winding road, the new setup makes most driving much more fun: peppy and quick, with a 220-horsepower combined rating, and the torque delivery is almost full-EV-like given that an electric motor modulates the ICE engine’s power on the way to the e-CVT system. I missed a bit of the hybrid glide path ride quality of earlier Priuses, but I would definitely take those 99 additional ponies versus the previous gen and even some slight torque steer in trade.

Equally as important, this generation seems to include more sound insulation to reduce hybrid drone and wind/tire noise—though speaking of wind, the exterior redesign also finally solves the sailing phenomenon of the second-gen on long highway bends, which was always a truly sketchy sensation.

In terms of nits to pick, the typically frustrating Toyota driver aids still chime and ding incessantly. The fact that the Prime also defaults to EV mode, rather than sticking in hybrid mode after a power cycle, requires a bit more attention than I expected. And relatively slow charging rates limited by the onboard 3.5-kW charger, without Level 3 capability, means that, for example, anyone who does space out and forget to switch into HV mode can’t rectify their mistake particularly quickly.

What’s not?

– Still a hint of hybrid drone – Automatically reverts to full EV mode instead of hybrid – Digital gauges are still small and in a silly location – Naggy driver aid chimes – Slow charging rates, no Level 3

New Toyotas: see prices at CarGurus

Have we reached peak Prius?

Toyota openly wants to stick with hybrids as much as possible in the foreseeable future and only plans to build EVs reluctantly. Much of the argument makes sense since minimizing the use of lithium and other rare earth minerals while maximizing the use case of each individual vehicle will serve both customers and the environment best. Prime stands as a testament to that commitment (as does, considering perhaps a contrapositive, the peculiar Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra situation).

But if government regulations don’t snap back to reality—oh, there goes (the Lucid) Gravity—then Prius may need to go full electric in the near future, as well. All of which means that there’s a solid chance this little blue car might just be peak Prius Prime, the final form of one of the most important and influential automobiles in world history—no exaggeration, truly, despite my obvious penchant for obscene hyperbole.

And this Prime indisputably takes a major leap forward, even if the tech does so slightly less. When a fourth-gen plug-in Prius drops a good chunk below $30,000 on the used market in the next couple of years, even a rear-drive sports car and four-wheel-drive rally racing fanatic such as myself might be tempted. And that is, truly, the greatest compliment I can give.

Electric vehicles are a solid choice for buyers looking to cut their carbon footprint and stop paying for gas, but they’re not the best electrified vehicle choice for everyone. Plug-in hybrids help bridge the gap, offering electric range with the security of a gas engine when there is no option to charge. They’re slightly more expensive than regular hybrids, but they offer a fantastic compromise for people who aren’t ready to make the jump to full electric. Heck, the site’s founder even owns one!

That said, we’ve rounded up our favorite PHEVs for 2024 here, but if you want to see our monster list of best cars, head here. The models on this list offer great tech, upscale interiors, and solid performance. Care to take a look at the best plug-ins the market has to offer? Perfect. Then let’s get rolling.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

• Starting price: $51,095
• Horsepower: 260 hp
• Torque: 262 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 30 MPG
• MPGe combined: 82 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 16 kWh
• EV range: 32 miles 

Laugh all you want at minivans, but the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is genuinely one for the books. Interestingly, it used to be the only hybrid van on the block, but that changed when Toyota introduced the latest Sienna. But Chrysler beats it out with plug-in functionality and a surprisingly stout 32-mile range estimate. On top of that, it returns 82 MPGe and up to 30 mpg with its gas powertrain. The Pacifica Hybrid also brings comfortable minivan handling and confident-but-numb steering. 

Though aging, especially compared to its more recently updated rivals, the Pacifica Hybrid’s interior offers fantastic comfort and solid space for people and gear. Leather upholstery and heated front seats come standard, and the second-row captain’s chairs bring good padding and support. Chrysler uses Stellantis’ Uconnect infotainment system, which is easily one of the most intuitive and easy-to-use interfaces on the market. Even if it’s not the newest system to date, it rewards buyers with rapid touch response and a brainless-to-navigate layout that even our new editor-in-chief can attest to, having experienced many modern Stellantis/FCA vehicles. It runs flawlessly on the standard 10.1-inch touchscreen and brings wireless smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth, USB inputs, and six speakers. 

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: see inventory

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

• Starting price: $42,410
• Horsepower: 261 hp
• Torque: 258 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 33 MPG
• MPGe combined: 76 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 13.8 kWh
• EV range: 32 miles

The Hyundai Santa Fe was an all-new model in 2021 and gained a frugal plug-in hybrid powertrain last year. While not a performance vehicle by any stretch of the imagination, the Santa Fe Hybrid offers brisk acceleration and reasonably athletic handling. At the same time, it maintains easy-going ride quality and offers a quiet cabin. 

With the recent overhaul, Hyundai moved the Santa Fe in a more premium direction, giving it an upscale interior with excellent materials quality and handsome design. Hyundai’s infotainment tech is less complicated than many other brands’ systems, and it runs smoothly on the Santa Fe PHEV’s standard 10.25-inch touchscreen. Other standard tech includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and HD radio.

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: see prices at CarGurus

Hyundai Tucson PHEV

• Starting Price: $38,475
• Horsepower: 261 hp
• Torque: 258 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 35 MPG
• MPGe combined: 80 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 13.8 kWh
• Range: 33 miles

The Hyundai Tucson was recently overhauled, which brought sharp style, updated hybrid functionality, and better tech. This SUV offers a smooth ride, solid acceleration, and a refined hybrid system that smoothly hands off between gas and electric components. All-wheel drive comes standard, and Hyundai opted for a six-speed automatic over a CVT here, which significantly improves drivability. At the same time, the SUV returns up to 80 MPGe combined and 38 mpg in gas mode. 

Regardless of trim, the Tucson offers a spacious, upscale interior with solid materials quality. There’s good head and legroom in both rows of seats, and passengers in the front enjoy comfortable buckets with good padding and support. An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard, bringing wireless smartphone mirroring. Wireless charging, SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth, and dual-zone automatic climate controls are also standard. 

Hyundai Tucson PHEV: see prices at CarGurus

Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

• Starting Price: $60,490
• Horsepower: 375 hp
• Torque: 470 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 23 MPG
• MPGe combined: 56 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 17.3 kWh
• Range: 26 miles

The Grand Cherokee 4xe was launched by Jeep following the success of the plug-in hybrid Wrangler. The SUV offers a decent all-electric range with energetic acceleration, though the transition between gas and electric powertrain elements can sometimes be awkward. Four-wheel drive is standard, and a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission helps the powertrain maintain smooth, quiet operation. And, okay, so it’s not the most efficient of this gathering at only 23 mpg and 56 mpge combined, but it sure packs a healthy wallop of power and torque, great for off-the-line jumps and highway passes.

The Grand Cherokee offers comfortable seating for up to five people. Jeep offers a range of upscale features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, massaging seats, and a heated steering wheel. An 8.4-inch touchscreen comes standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, and a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster.

Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: see prices at CarGurus

Jeep Wrangler 4xe

• Price: $60,360
• Horsepower: 375 hp
• Torque: 470 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 20 MPG
• MPGe combined: 49 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 17.3 kWh
• Range: 22 miles

Surprised that this made it? Come on, now. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe has become America’s best-selling plug-in hybrid, and its powertrain delivers good acceleration with a reasonable all-electric range. However, like the Grand Cherokee, the Wrangler 4xe’s powertrain sometimes stumbles in the handoff between the electric motors and gas components. The Wrangler can also be a handful to manage on the highway, as its off-road suspension makes it feel busy and sometimes unsettled at higher speeds.

It must be noted that while the Wrangler 4xe is the least efficient member of this club, it may as well be a Prius among standard Wranglers, eking out a healthy 20 mpg and 49 mpge combined. Hey, after all, it’s still a big ol’ Wrangler, sculpted by a wind tunnel if the wind tunnel was out of service. But try going to Moab in a Corolla Cross.

The new Wrangler is much more luxurious and plusher than its predecessors, but this is still a rugged off-road SUV we’re talking about. Jeep did a good job at balancing materials quality throughout the Wrangler’s cabin, as there’s a mix of low-rent and upscale materials throughout. The SUV comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running Uconnect infotainment software. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with eight speakers and Bluetooth. Higher trim levels get a larger 8.4-inch screen and navigation.

Jeep Wrangler 4xe: see prices at CarGurus

Toyota Prius Prime

• Price: $32,975
• Horsepower: 220 hp
• Torque: 139 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 48 to 52 MPG
• MPGe combined: 114 to 127 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 13.6 kWh
• Range: 39 to 44 miles

Toyota redesigned the Prius and its Prime plug-in variant back in 2023, giving it a striking appearance overhaul that made it surprisingly attractive from a design standpoint. It doesn’t just look better, it’s also more engaging to drive, with more power and far better acceleration than the previous generation.

The plug-in powertrain provides solid acceleration and refined operation, and there are up to 44 miles of all-electric range on tap in the most efficient models (it varies on the wheel/tire package). Regardless of trim level and tires, Prius fans are in for one of the most efficient plug-ins by a vast margin and one of the most improved generations of Prius, period. And no better is that reflected than its cabin.

The Prius Prime’s interior feels more upscale and premium than in years past. Toyota implemented heavy updates to the infotainment system, making it easier to use and more intuitive. Front-seat space and comfort are both top-notch, but folks in the back seat may find a shortage of headroom because of the car’s sloping roof. An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Amazon Alexa functionality. 

Toyota Prius Prime: see prices at CarGurus

Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 PHEV

• Price: $57,900
• Horsepower: 455 hp
• Torque: 523 lb-ft.
• MPG combined: 28 MPG
• MPGe combined: 63 MPGe
• Battery capacity: 18.8kWh
• Range: 35 miles

The Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 PHEV blends Volvo’s safety and luxury aesthetic with an advanced plug-in powertrain and great tech. The SUV delivers up to 35 miles of all-electric range, and acceleration isn’t wimpy by any measure. At the same time, the XC60 maintains a comfortable ride, though it’s not as athletic as some rivals. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends all that delicious, fiery power to all four wheels, and the stout powertrain operates smoothly in most situations.

Oh, did anyone mention this thing pushes 523 pound-feet? The Grand Cherokee 4xe sprints, but this is definitely a hard charger, with magazine-tested zero-to-60 runs in the low-four-second range and quarter-mile sprints in the high-twelves. For reference, that’s Mustang GT territory. But you’d never know from a mere glance at its opulent innards.

Volvo’s austere Scandinavian design gives the XC60 a calming, serene feel, and the materials are top-notch, no matter where you look. The front seats are supportive and generously padded, complementing a spacious back seating area that comfortably accommodates adults. Volvo moved to Google-based infotainment, which operates well on the 9-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

Volvo XC60: see prices at CarGurus

In a flurry of late-afternoon press releases, BMW announced updates to its product line for 2025. The automaker introduced refreshed 4 Series and M4 Coupes, as well as a new Z4 M40i. Here’s a quick look at the new vehicles BMW announced.

BMW adopted mild-hybrid tech for the new 4 Series, updating its four- and six-cylinder engine options. The turbocharged inline-six with 48-volt mild-hybrid power delivers 386 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, while the four-cylinder with mild-hybrid produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The car also got styling updates, a revised interior, and BMW’s latest iDrive version 8.5.

The hotter M4 got more power, at least in the range-topping Competition models. The mainstream M4 delivers 473 horsepower, and the M4 Comp is up to 503 horsepower (523 with all-wheel drive). BMW offers a six-speed manual in the regular coupe, but the Comp is limited to an eight-speed automatic transmission. 

Though it’s increasingly rare to find any new cars equipped with a stick shift and a third pedal, the 2025 Z4 M40i comes as a six-speed manual for the first time. That transmission is mated to a 382-horsepower turbocharged inline-six, sending the car from 0-60 mph in a respectable 4.2 seconds. The M40i model also gets upgraded suspension, exclusive wheels, and unique interior trim. 

Pricing for the 4 Series Coupe starts at $50,700 before the $995 destination charge. The top M440i xDrive Convertible starts at $74,250. The M4 starts at $79,100 for the entry-level Coupe, while stepping up to the M4 Competition xDrive Convertible pushes the price to $95,300. Adding the six-speed manual package to the Z4 M40i bumps the price by $3,500. BMW will start sending all three cars to dealers’ lots in March 2024.

In the meantime, older model year M4, Z4 M40i, and “regular” 4 Series prices will only continue to decline on the used market. As auto industry expert Ross Litman said on a recent episode of Acceleramota’s Car Meet podcast (available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify), 60% of luxury cars on the road are leased. Enthusiasts interested in modifying their BMWs might consider buying used rather than financing a vehicle almost certain to lose value at a disproportionate rate.

Ta-da! A buyer’s guide for what many of you really care about in 2024: getting the most out of your vehicle for less. How about the most fuel-efficient cars, eh?

Vehicle range and fuel economy play a major role in owners’ lives everywhere. From how much money we spend on gasoline or charging to how often we have to make time to refuel and where MPG and MPGe are significant stat, many look at them when it comes to their vehicle purchasing decision.

Consumers have known traditional gasoline-powered engines for years, and for many, they are still within our comfort zone. While they may not offer the same fuel economy as electric vehicles or hybrids, we get to skip out on the range anxiety and charging waits. No matter what type of vehicle you prefer, here are the most fuel-efficient vehicles of 2024 across each segment.

Skip to section:

• Gas-only
• Hybrid
• Full EV

The gas-only corner!

2024 Mitsubishi Mirage

MPG: 39 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• With a starting price of just under $17,000, this is one of the most affordable new cars on the market
• Base model comes equipped with all of the standard safety and tech features you’d expect from a new 2024 model

What’s not?

• Painfully underpowered, offering less than 100 not-so-buff ponies
• An oversimplified interior looks modestly dated, which isn’t bad if you’re not looking for something with a lot of tech or luxury

The Mitsubishi Mirage hasn’t changed much over the years, sticking to its simple design and putting affordability first. With a modest entry price and a record of reliability, this 2024 Mirage is a great option for many buyers looking to get the most out of a new car warranty without breaking the bank.

2024 Honda Civic

MPG: 37 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• Trim levels and body style options give buyers a variety of choices, but overall, body lines look sporty and modern
• Interior cabin space and cargo capacity exceed expectations

What’s not?

• Road noise is bothersome inside the vehicle
• There have been no noticeable changes since the 2023 model year, meaning the only additional benefit is a newer warranty

The Honda Civic is a tried and true car for many consumers, with a long history of reliability that gives buyers comfort and confidence, and the 2024 model year is no different. If you’re looking for a car that kind of does it all, this sedan is probably at the top of your list, melding together some sporty acceleration and handling with comfort, space, and tech as one of the most affordable cars on the market with a starting price of $23,950.

2024 Hyundai Elantra

MPG: 37 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• Above-average standard features
• Refreshed styling to the front and rear bumpers make this sedan look more aggressive and modern

What’s not?

• Unenthusiastic acceleration with the base model and handling could be better
• Interior materials look and feel cheap with lots of plastic

The newly updated Hyundai Elantra looks better than ever while still providing buyers with top-notch fuel economy. As an overall package, the Elantra is one of the best compact sedans on the market today, with a starting price of $21,625. It boasts a surprising amount of standard safety and tech features for such a modest purchase price, and if the acceleration and handling are a concern for drivers this top trim level, the N Line, which provides better handling and more responsive throttle, is also available with only a slight increase in price to $28,465.

Cough, don’t forget about Elantra N if you’re really feeling frisky.

The hybrid corner!

2024 Toyota Prius

MPG: 57 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• New updates leave the Prius’s ugly duckling status in the past for what has been its best design yet
• Strong record of reliability

What’s not?

• With no changes to the 2024 model from the previous year, the only additional benefit of buying new is a fresher warranty and lower mileage
• Sleeker roof lines reduce rear visibility, rear head room, and cargo

The Toyota Prius has a bad rap for being frumpy and underpowered, but it has been a favorite among consumers for years, regardless. Just ask one of our editors who tested one. The latest generation of the Prius ups the ante with better styling, newer tech, and features that buyers want, combined with years of production that have proved the car to be reliable — a great selling point for those concerned with high-voltage battery systems and hybrid vehicle ownership. The 2024 Toyota Prius dips its tires into the world of gasoline and electric for a modest entry price and does a great job of bridging the gap for consumers.

2024 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

MPG: 54 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• As expected, better fuel economy over the standard gasoline model
• Updated designs and options increase overall appearance and quality

What’s not?

• The drivetrain achieves better fuel economy by sacrificing acceleration
• Only available with two trim level options

Notable mention for hitting this list twice as a gasoline-only and hybrid vehicle, the 2024 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid doesn’t differ much from the ICE version of this model. If you’ve been considering the Elantra, the hybrid options offer everything that the standard model does and more, with some major updates from safety features like the rear side airbags and haptic feedback for driver’s assists to cosmetic options like exterior and interior colors.

2024 Kia Niro Hybrid

MPG: 53 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• Unique design is modern with a distinct front end and day-running lights
• Ample space for cargo and passengers without the mass and road presence of a large SUV

What’s not?

• The base model hybrid is noticeably slower and offers underwhelming power
• All-wheel drive is not available

Eat your heart out, Corolla Cross Hybrid. The 2024 Kia Niro Hybrid is a great solution for buyers who are looking to maximize their fuel economy without minimizing their space. As a compact crossover, the Niro Hybrid offers an impressive amount of interior space for both cargo and passengers, making it the perfect option for families or city dwellers.

The EV corner!

2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6

MPGe: 140 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• Modern designs inside and out give the car a sleek appearance and high-tech feel
• As a small, well-balanced sedan, the IONIQ 6 offers nimble handling and engaging acceleration

What’s not?

• The sleek roofline gives the car a sporty appearance but minimizes rear head space and trunk space as a result
• Best range only on RWD models

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 is a newer car on the scene, combining a surprising amount of luxury and technology for a brand-new EV starting at $37,500. The additional option of all-wheel drive gives this car an additional edge over competitors, but the standard model’s rear-wheel drive train offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience for a sedan.

2024 BMW i4

MPGe: 120 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• Besides the blue trim, this sedan otherwise looks like a regular gasoline-powered engine which may be attractive to some buyers
• Same styling and quality consumers expect from BMW for a modestly priced luxury EV

What’s not?

• While the acceleration performance of the i4 is competitive, the steering and handling are reportedly lackluster
• The sportier M option enhances performance but at a steep sacrifice to range

The 2024 BMW i4 is unrecognizable as an electric vehicle which may be enticing to buyers who want the EV experience without the looks. Its performance and handling rival more popular cars from the brand, including the BMW M3, living up to the expectations set by the brand in previous years.

2024 Lucid Air Pure AWD

MPGe: 137 miles combined city/highway

What’s hot?

• Interior oozes luxury and high-end vibes with a variety of textiles
• Smooth driving experience with minimal road noise

What’s not?

• By far the most expensive vehicle option on this list, with a starting price of $82,400
• Kind of looks like a bar of soap, the body lines of this EV don’t have much to offer

The Lucid Air Pure is a true luxury car, and its price reflects it. Minimalistic styling inside and out is countered by a fine selection of materials and designs that make the Lucid unlike anything else on the market. Because this brand is also lesser known it gets bonus points for being uncommon.

“It’s not you, it’s me,” and “You’ve changed, Prius,” are phrases Toyota’s long-running fuel-saving car would hear if it could have human-like relationships. The car got a significant overhaul for 2023, which brought a striking styling update, improved powertrain and performance, and better tech across the board. Looking at the new and improved 2023 Prius, it’s a little frustrating that Toyota could have given us this car years ago, but we’ll have to settle for better late or never. 

Toyota offers the 2023 Prius as a traditional hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The PHEV variant, called the Prius Prime, has been a mainstay in the Prius lineup since it was first introduced in 2012. While it does have to be routinely connected to a charger, the 2023 Prius Prime delivers higher performance and up to 44 miles of purely electric range. In either case, depending on the configuration, the car brings up to 57 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway when the engine and electric motor are both in use.

The 2024 Prius hasn’t hit the streets yet, but we expect minor updates to the line, including a potential high-performance variant. Toyota made enough improvements to the car’s powertrain and styling that it’s reasonable to expect an enthusiast model with slightly more power and a more aggressive look, especially given its newfound popularity with modders.

2023 Prius price, trim levels, mpg, and 0-60 performance

Toyota offers the Prius in several configurations and with all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) Prius Prime comes in sportier trims with a higher starting price and no all-wheel drive option. The tradeoff is that Prime buyers get up to 44 miles of all-electric range, meaning there could be extended periods without stops for gas, depending on the driver. 

Making up to 220 horsepower, we know the 2023 Prius is no slouch. But real-world performance is about more than just horsepower. Weight and torque also play an important role. Pushing 139 lb-ft of torque and a curb weight between 3097-3571 lbs, the Prius Prime can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.6 seconds while the regular Prius still manages a decent 7.

While those aren’t record-shattering numbers, the 2023 Prius’s 0-60 performance is a far cry from the 10.3 seconds of the 2012 model our Editor-in-Chief mentioned owning in his interview with Mag-X.

2023 Toyota Prius: check local availability at CarGurus 2023 Prius Prime: check local availability at CarGurus

2023 Toyota Prius LE

• $27,450 (AWD +$1,400)

• Up to 57 mpg combined

• 194 net horsepower

• 139 lb-ft torque

2023 Toyota Prius XLE

• $30,895 (AWD +$1,400)

• Up to 52 mpg combined

• 194 net horsepower

• 139 lb-ft torque

2023 Toyota Prius Limited

• $34,465 (AWD +$1,400)

• Up to 52 mpg combined

• 194 net horsepower
• 139 lb-ft torque

2023 Toyota Prius Prime SE

• $32,350 

• 127 MPGe

• 44mi all-electric range

• 220 net horsepower

• 139 lb-ft torque

2023 Toyota Prius Prime XSE

• $35,600 

• 114 MPGe

• 39mi all-electric range

• 220 net horsepower

• 139 lb-ft torque

2023 Toyota Prius Prime Premium

• $39,170 

• 114 MPGe

• 39mi all-electric range

• 220 net horsepower

• 139 lb-ft torque

The 2023 Prius is part of a sprawling car lineup from Toyota. The automaker also offers the Corolla as a sedan or hatchback with an optional hybrid powertrain. The Camry is also available as a gas or hybrid, and Toyota recently revived the Crown nameplate for use on a hybrid-only premium sedan. In terms of pricing, the Prius is more expensive than the Corolla and starts off a little below the Camry’s base price. 

Toyota has always done a decent job with value and offering a simple vehicle build process. With the 2023 Prius, buyers have a wide range of colors and options packages to choose from. Most popular features come with trim level selection, making the buying process much easier to navigate. The car also gets a load of standard safety equipment, including blind spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and much more. 

Toyota hybrids: 2023 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Toyota Corolla hybrid

The Prius’ move upmarket with power and styling made it more compelling than the Corolla on paper, though neither car is remarkably exciting nor quick. The 2023 Prius delivers 194 horsepower, while the Corolla is limited to 138 ponies. Both cars get a continuously variable transmission and are available with all-wheel drive. 

Most versions of the Prius outperform the Corolla Hybrid on fuel economy. The most efficient front-drive Prius LE delivers 57 mpg in the city, while the Corolla Hybrid tops out at 50 mpg city. The Prius offers ten more cubic feet of cargo space than the Corolla, although both leave much to be desired in this department. 

Toyota has massively improved its technology offerings in recent years, and the new 2023 Prius gets the full benefit of the automaker’s latest interface. It comes standard with a standard 7-inch display or an optional 12.3-inch display, and the new infotainment system runs flawlessly on both. The Corolla also got a new interface for 2023, but its largest display is an 8-inch touchscreen. Both cars get upscale tech features that were considered luxuries just a few years ago. These include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital gauge cluster, and more. 

2023 Prius news

Toyota just got a new CEO after long-time leader Akio Toyoda stepped down from the position earlier this year. The company has been a public skeptic of the move to electric vehicles for many years. This has led Toyota to push forward with the development of hybrids and other fuel sources, such as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The automaker’s first mass-market EV, the Toyota bZ4X, was plagued with delays and a recall early on but has reached the market with generally positive reviews.

The company has announced its plans to release ten new EV models by 2025 and said plug-in hybrids are the way forward with electrification. Toyota is working on new PHEV models with electric ranges of more than 124 miles, giving them several times the range of today’s most robust PHEVs. The automaker believes that PHEVs will be considered “practical BEVs” and hybrids will become the lower-cost alternatives while still saving fuel. 

At the same time, Toyota is in the middle of a modernization push with its truck and SUV line. The automaker overhauled its ancient Sequoia SUV and Tundra pickup truck last year and has begun releasing teaser images for the upcoming Tacoma refresh.