You can get many benefits of an EV without range anxiety.
Here's a little-known fact: Electric cars are great! For many people, however, the only reason they wouldn't purchase an electric vehicle was range anxiety, the fear of running out of power during a long trip. So a plug-in hybrid is an excellent compromise if you’re interested in driving an electric car but can’t commit to the whole lifestyle.
The US market for hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years, with many new models hitting the market both on a consumer and commercial level. So if you're considering buying a used plug-in hybrid, you've come to the right place.
Here are the best plug-in hybrids for under $20,000. These vehicles are the best choice based on fuel economy, safety, and reliability.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In is a used PHEV worth hunting. It gets 119 MPGe, 52 mpg in hybrid mode, and 630 miles of total range. In addition, it has features such as Apple CarPlay, wireless smartphone charging, and navigation. And that’s why it landed the top spot on Kelley Blue Book’s list.
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The 2015 Toyota Prius Plug-in is still a great used car to consider buying, even though it is a bit older. It can travel 11 miles on its battery and a total of 540 miles. It also gets 95 MPGe or 50 mpg combined when it’s in hybrid mode. Kelley Blue Book also commended the PHEV for its “legendary popularity and reliability in the Prius line.”
Kelley Blue Book’s list of the best used plug-in hybrid vehicles under $20,000 includes the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid. Although this is the oldest model on the list, it still delivers impressive efficiency: 115 MPGe and 46 mpg in hybrid mode. Plus, its total range of up to 570 miles gives you plenty of options for your daily commute.
If you’re looking for a used hybrid, the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid may be a good choice; it’s one of the most efficient used cars on the list.
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The 2016 Chevrolet Volt doesn't have a “plug-in hybrid” in its title, but it is still a good option for those looking for an efficient car on a budget. The 2016 Volt offers 106 MPGe, 53 miles of electric range, and 42 mpg in hybrid mode. All in all, you'll get an impressive 420 miles of total range behind the wheel of this PHEV.
The Chevy Volt is more than just a car—it’s an efficient vehicle that can help you get where you need to go.
The 2017 Ford C-Max Energi PHEV combines a useful hatchback form factor and excellent efficiency with 20 miles of all-electric range, 39 mpg in hybrid mode, 570 miles of total range, and an optional SYNC3 infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
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The Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid is a hard car to find for less than $20,000, and the cars you can find may be high-mileage. Still, its practicality as a modern compact crossover with 105 MPGe/46 mpg, 26 miles of all-electric range, and 560 miles total range makes finding a deal worth the work.
If you’re looking for a sharp-looking, feature-filled, and fuel-efficient car that is also affordably priced, the 2017 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid might be just what you’re looking for. It has an EPA rating of 103 MPGe with 40 mpg combined and 29 miles of all-electric range. It also has a total range of 610 miles.
The 2016 Ford Fusion Energi Plug-in Hybrid might be your best bet if you prefer midsize sedans over hatchbacks and crossovers. With 20 miles of all-electric range and 550 miles of total range, this model has solid ratings across the board, including 88 MPGe and 38 mpg combined. In addition, unlike some of the other cars on this list, you can get your hands on one in most states.
The A3 Sportback e-Tron is surprisingly easy to find for under $20,000 and has a luxury nameplate. The A3 Sportback scores 83 MPGe and 35 mpg in hybrid mode, with 16 miles of electric range and 380 miles of total range.
It’s an all-around solid choice for a hatchback. Its tech and interior will satisfy your needs whether you're buying it as a practical, tech-focused car or a stylish daily driver.
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The 2015 BMW i3 is a unique offering in the PHEV space. With a minimal gasoline backup and 72 miles of all-electric range, it's a short-range EV most of the time. Nevertheless, the i3 scores well on the numbers against the newer competition, with 150 miles total range, 117 MPGe, and 39 mpg when driven as a hybrid. In addition, its fun design and futuristic feel make it stand out even seven years later.
Plug-in hybrids are a great investment because they combine the environmental friendliness of an EV with the road-trip range and capabilities of gas-powered cars.
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| Rank | Company | Country |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Volkswagen |
Germany |
| #2 |  Toyota |
Japan |
| #3 |  Stellantis |
Netherlands |
| #4 |  Mercedes-Benz Group |
Germany |
| #5 |  Ford Motor |
United States |
| Rank | Company | Country |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Michelin |
France |
| #2 |  Bridgestone |
Japan |
| #3 |  Continental |
Germany |
| #4 |  Goodyear |
United States |
| #5 |  Sumitomo |
Japan |
