Edmunds: The best plug-in hybrids for driving without filling up on gas

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Ready to go the distance, or at least as far as a plug-in hybrid can take you on electricity before using a drop of gas

Buying a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle is a great way to try living with an electric vehicle without giving up the convenience of using gasoline for longer trips. They’re perfect for driving shorter commutes, shuttling kids to school, and running local errands on electricity. But when your plans call for a longer trip, a plug-in hybrid’s gasoline engine takes over and makes it possible to drive across the city or the entire country without recharging the battery.

The latest plug-in vehicles offer more electric driving range than in the past. Edmunds researched current range estimates and chose five models in different vehicle classes that can travel an impressive distance using nothing but electricity. They are listed below by lowest to highest base price.

SMALL CAR: 2024 TOYOTA PRIUS PRIME

Most people know what a Toyota Prius is. The Prius Prime is the plug-in hybrid version of the iconic hybrid car. It’s able to travel up to an EPA-estimated 45 miles on nothing but electricity. After that, it will get up to 52 mpg in combined city/highway driving when used as a traditional hybrid.

Because the Prius Prime supplies 220 horsepower and surprisingly speedy acceleration, each of its three trim levels is sport-themed. The Prius Prime offers plenty of utility too, thanks to its five-passenger, four-door hatchback configuration. Open the hatch, fold the back seat down, and you might decide this Prius Prime is a credible alternative to a small crossover SUV. However, the most surprising thing about the 2024 Prius Prime is its sense of style, which Toyota no longer sacrifices at the altar of sensibility.

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