The automotive world is rapidly evolving, and energy-efficient plug-in hybrid drivetrains are no longer limited to economy cars. Luxury automakers are increasingly embracing this technology, providing a more sustainable and often more exhilarating way to experience premium vehicles. If you’re seeking the pinnacle of automotive refinement without sacrificing environmental consciousness or your budget at the pump, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of some of the Best Hybrid Luxury Cars available in 2017, ranked by their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). While these sophisticated machines often carry a higher price tag than their gasoline-only counterparts, remember to factor in potential federal and state tax credits and incentives that can significantly offset the initial cost of owning a plug-in hybrid luxury car.
2017 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron — MSRP $38,900
The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron marked a unique entry into the luxury car market. While Audi discontinued the standard Sportback after 2013 in favor of the sedan, they revived the body style for the plug-in hybrid version, demonstrating their belief in this underrated design. The Sportback e-tron is not only stylish but also stands out as one of the most accessible plug-in hybrid luxury cars. Its electric range of 16 miles might seem modest, but it compensates with impressive fuel economy figures: an EPA rating of 35 mpg combined when running on gasoline, and an outstanding 83 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when utilizing both gas and electric power. This blend of efficiency and Audi’s renowned luxury made the 2017 A3 Sportback e-tron a compelling option for eco-conscious luxury car buyers.
2017 Mercedes-Benz C350e — MSRP $40,425
Mercedes-Benz is expanding its commitment to electrification with a range of plug-in hybrid luxury vehicles, and the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C350e is positioned as the most attainable in this lineup. Although its initial launch was slightly delayed, this model was eagerly anticipated for its blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury and enhanced efficiency. The C350e combines a responsive 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, seamlessly managed by a 7-speed automatic transmission. While the plug-in hybrid technology increases the initial investment compared to a standard C-Class, the long-term benefits in fuel savings and reduced emissions, coupled with the inherent luxury and refinement of the C-Class, make it a smart choice for discerning drivers.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid — MSRP $43,090
While the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid may technically be classified as a minivan, it undeniably offers a level of comfort and features that place it within the realm of luxury vehicles. Furthermore, it holds the distinction of being the world’s first and, at the time, only hybrid minivan. Its price point even exceeds some other models on this list of plug-in hybrid luxury vehicles, justifying its inclusion. The Pacifica Hybrid boasts an impressive all-electric range of 30 miles and achieves an EPA-estimated 80 MPGe combined. Powered by a V6 engine working in harmony with two electric motors, this minivan allows families to significantly reduce their reliance on gasoline. Despite its premium price, the Pacifica Hybrid is generously equipped with standard features, making it a luxurious and practical choice for families seeking efficiency.
2017 BMW 330e — MSRP $44,100
The BMW 3 Series has long been a benchmark in the entry-level luxury sedan segment, and the 2017 BMW 330e variant adds a plug-in hybrid dimension to its appeal. While the hybrid drivetrain does increase the base price, many drivers will appreciate the sophisticated balance of performance and fuel efficiency it delivers. The 330e offers an all-electric range of 14 miles and an EPA combined rating of 71 MPGe, all while producing a robust 248 horsepower. The 3 Series maintains its reputation for being upscale and comfortable without being overly showy, and the 330e represents BMW’s intelligent approach to integrating plug-in hybrid technology into their core models, bringing efficient luxury to a broader audience.
2017 BMW i3 with Range Extender — MSRP $46,250
The BMW i3 is a distinctive electric compact hatchback that, while not as overtly opulent as some BMW models, still embodies luxury in its innovative design and premium feel. Although primarily an all-electric vehicle, the Range Extender version of the i3 blurs the lines and warrants inclusion in this list of hybrid luxury cars. The Range Extender option adds a small gasoline engine that acts as a generator, recharging the battery on the go and extending the car’s overall range. This feature adds approximately $4,000 to the base price of the i3 and slightly reduces the MPGe rating (to 117 MPGe compared to 124 MPGe for the pure electric version), but significantly enhances its practicality and usability, making it a unique and luxurious option for urban dwellers.
2017 Volvo S90 — MSRP unknown (Projected to be above $46,950 base S90)
Volvo is steadily shedding its solely “boxy but safe” image by embracing innovation and modern luxury. The Volvo S90, a completely redesigned midsize sedan for 2017, exemplifies this transformation. While initial models featured Volvo’s familiar turbocharged gasoline engines, the highly anticipated plug-in hybrid version was on the horizon for 2017. Projected to offer a 20-mile electric range and an impressive 400 horsepower, the S90 plug-in hybrid promised a compelling combination of Scandinavian luxury, performance, and efficiency. Pricing for the 2017 Volvo S90 luxury plug-in hybrid was still to be announced at the time of writing, but it was expected to command a premium over the standard S90, which started at $46,950.
2017 Mercedes-Benz E350e — MSRP unknown (Projected to be above $52,150 base E-Class)
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is widely recognized as one of the leading midsize luxury car lineups. Available in various body styles, including sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon, and with a range of gasoline and diesel engines, the E-Class excels even within a highly competitive class. For 2017, Mercedes-Benz expanded the E-Class appeal with a new plug-in hybrid variant, the E350e. Combining a 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, the E350e was set to deliver a combined output of 286 horsepower along with enhanced fuel efficiency. Pricing details for the 2017 E350e were not yet available, but it was expected to be positioned above the base 2017 E-Class, which started at $52,150, reflecting its advanced technology and luxurious features.
2016 Cadillac ELR — MSRP $65,000
Cadillac entered the plug-in hybrid luxury car segment with the 2016 Cadillac ELR, a striking coupe with seating for four that embodied modern Cadillac design. The driving experience of the ELR was distinct; in fully electric mode, it offered a refined and smooth ride, but when the gasoline engine engaged to supplement the electric motors, the power delivery was perceived as less seamless. Despite this, the ELR possessed numerous desirable qualities, including a lavish interior, comfortable seating, a comprehensive list of standard features, and impressive fuel economy figures of 85 MPGe in electric mode. While it didn’t achieve the sales success Cadillac anticipated, the ELR remains a noteworthy and luxurious plug-in hybrid coupe.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE550e — MSRP $66,300
Following Mercedes-Benz’s extensive commitment to plug-in hybrid technology across its luxury car range, it was no surprise to see this drivetrain extended to the midsize GLE-Class SUV. The GLE-Class, building upon the legacy of the M-Class, offers contemporary styling and undeniable premium appeal, making it an ideal platform for buyers seeking a powerful yet fuel-conscious SUV. The 2017 GLE550e boasts a robust 436 horsepower from its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor. This stylish and engaging SUV also includes Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, combining luxury, performance, and all-weather capability with plug-in hybrid efficiency.
2017 BMW i8 — MSRP $141,695
The BMW i8 stands as a unique offering, distinct from being simply a sportier and pricier version of the BMW i3. While the i3 prioritizes electric efficiency, the i8 is fundamentally a BMW sports car that seamlessly integrates plug-in hybrid technology without compromising on luxury, style, or performance. The i8 is a visually stunning sports coupe with sleek, wide, and low proportions. Extensive use of lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon fiber contributes to both its agility and its high price. The plug-in hybrid system delivers a combined 357 horsepower and a total range of up to 420 miles. This luxurious sports car achieves 29 mpg on the highway when using gasoline and an impressive 76 MPGe combined, showcasing that exhilarating performance and fuel efficiency can coexist in the realm of best hybrid luxury cars.
