Edmunds: The five best hybrid SUVs under $35,000

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Buying a hybrid vehicle can be a smart way to help save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint compared to a conventional gasoline-only vehicle. In recent years, automakers have also greatly expanded the availability of hybrid SUVs. These models can get impressive fuel economy while providing plenty of cargo space, available all-wheel drive, and the latest in technology and driver assist features. Edmunds’ experts have picked five of the best new hybrid SUVs on sale today for under $35,000. They’re listed below in order of affordability, and all prices include the destination charge.

2024 KIA NIRO

The 2024 Niro is a small hybrid crossover SUV that also gets the best fuel economy of the models featured here. According to the EPA, the Niro can get up to 53 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The Niro also provides the utility you might expect from a bigger and more expensive SUV. There’s plenty of space in the second row and the 22.8-cubic-foot cargo area is useful enough for most daily errands. In addition to its low price, the 2024 Niro Hybrid is backed by Kia’s impressive standard warranty and roadside assistance coverage plans. The main downsides to the Niro are slow acceleration and a lack of available all-wheel drive.

Base starting price, including destination: $28,315

2024 KIA SPORTAGE HYBRID

Edmunds’ top-rated hybrid SUV is also one of the most affordable. The 2024 Sportage Hybrid is one size larger than the Niro in Kia’s hybrid SUV lineup and has more interior room. It’s also more enjoyable to drive. The Sportage Hybrid has a turbocharged hybrid powertrain that makes plenty of power when merging onto freeways and without the droning noise common with many hybrids. It’s not