2016 was a significant year for automotive innovation, but 2017 raised the bar even higher, particularly for hybrid vehicles. The market witnessed an unprecedented expansion in hybrid options, offering consumers more choices than ever before. This article, presented by Autobytel, delves into the top 10 hybrid cars that stood out in 2017. While the primary focus is on cars, some noteworthy models from other body styles are also included where relevant. These exceptional hybrids are listed in ascending order of their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Discover if your ideal fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious vehicle is among these standout selections.
2017 Toyota Prius — MSRP $24,685
The Toyota Prius has become more than just a model; it’s practically evolved into its own sub-brand within Toyota. This strategic move is understandable given the Prius’s consistent quality and appeal. Each Prius variant offers a unique flavor, catering to slightly different customer preferences while maintaining the core hybrid advantages. The standard Prius is not just a “good hybrid”; it’s a genuinely good car in its own right. This inherent quality earns it a top spot on our list of the best hybrids to consider for 2017. A significant upgrade for the 2017 Prius is the inclusion of Toyota’s Safety Sense suite as standard equipment. This package incorporates active safety and driver-assistance technologies, enhancing both safety and peace of mind.
2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid — MSRP $25,675
While the conventional Ford Fusion is already a commendable midsize sedan, the hybrid version elevates its appeal considerably. In a vehicle class often criticized for lacking driving excitement, the 2017 Fusion Hybrid injects a welcome dose of dynamism into daily commutes, thanks to its surprisingly responsive handling. Beyond performance, the Fusion Hybrid distinguishes itself with an unexpectedly premium interior. This upscale cabin feel significantly enhances the overall ownership experience, making this budget-friendly hybrid feel more luxurious than its price tag suggests. Indeed, the Fusion Hybrid stands out as one of the more accessible hybrid options on the market, especially when considering its larger size and superior comfort compared to many entry-level compact hybrids.
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid — MSRP $25,995
The Kia Optima Hybrid, a veteran in the hybrid midsize sedan segment since its debut in 2011, continues to be an often-overlooked gem, much like the standard Optima. This underrated nature is precisely why it secures its position as one of the best hybrid cars to buy in 2017, and notably, it’s also among the most affordable options on this list. Staying true to Kia’s brand ethos, the Optima Hybrid consistently surprises buyers with an interior that exceeds expectations for its class. It’s also generously equipped with a wealth of standard features, enhancing its value proposition. Kia interiors are known for their user-friendly layouts, providing a comfortable and intuitive environment for both driver and passengers. While the Optima Hybrid might not be the most visually striking car in this lineup, its understated design allows it to blend seamlessly into diverse environments.
2017 Toyota Camry Hybrid — MSRP $26,790
When considering the best hybrid cars of 2017, selecting a Toyota is practically a guaranteed win. In fact, Toyota vehicles appear multiple times on this list, underscoring the brand’s dominance in the hybrid market. The Camry Hybrid is yet another testament to Toyota’s hybrid leadership. Toyota’s success in the hybrid sector stems from being among the first to create hybrid cars that were genuinely desirable to drive, not just practical. The Camry, with its long-standing reputation, further enhances this appeal. This midsize sedan has been a class leader for years, consistently delivering exceptional value. The Camry Hybrid, equipped with a reliable and efficient powertrain, is a clear winner, further bolstered by its spacious cabin, user-friendly technology interface, and impressive fuel economy figures.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid — MSRP $27,875
While purpose-built, uniquely designed hybrid cars have their own merit, there’s also significant value in a hybrid variant derived from a well-established gasoline car – especially if that base car is already a strong performer. The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid perfectly exemplifies this strategy. It retains all the familiar comfort, convenience, and accessibility of the classic Chevy Malibu midsize sedan, while significantly enhancing its efficiency and environmental footprint. The Malibu Hybrid is particularly praised for delivering surprisingly robust acceleration for a hybrid vehicle. Furthermore, it comes generously equipped with standard features, including seamless integration with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, catering to modern connectivity needs.
2017 Honda Accord Hybrid— MSRP $29,605
The Honda Accord Hybrid made a welcome return in 2017. After a brief hiatus, Honda’s decision to reintroduce this model was a smart move, despite its relatively modest sales figures in previous iterations. The Accord midsize sedan itself is better than ever, and the Accord Hybrid is a faithful and improved hybrid adaptation. Beyond its refined styling and comfortable interior, the Accord Hybrid boasts impressive horsepower figures for a midsize hybrid, coupled with exceptional fuel economy. While not necessarily the sportiest handler in its class, it delivers a composed, smooth, and stable driving experience. The 2017 Accord Hybrid is also well-equipped with standard features, making its somewhat higher price point seem increasingly justifiable when considering the overall package.
2017 Lexus CT Hybrid — MSRP $31,250
The Lexus CT Hybrid presents a unique offering in the list of best hybrid cars for 2017: a hybrid luxury hatchback, unlike any other vehicle featured here. Mirroring other Lexus models, the CT Hybrid hints at sportiness in its design, although its actual performance in that regard is debatable. This Lexus hybrid prioritizes comfort over aggressive handling, and fuel efficiency over rapid acceleration. However, it possesses enough compelling qualities to warrant its inclusion on this list. Compact luxury cars are popular for good reason, and the Lexus CT Hybrid enhances this appeal with its distinctive aesthetics and generous cargo capacity. For those seeking a hybrid that deviates from the conventional mold, the Lexus CT Hybrid is definitely worth exploring.
2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid — MSRP $41,330
The 2017 Highlander Hybrid takes Toyota’s successful midsize SUV formula and elevates it with enhanced efficiency. By integrating three electric motors with a V6 engine, it achieves a combined 280 horsepower and fuel economy ratings that are remarkable for its vehicle class. While undeniably one of the best hybrid SUVs available and a strong contender for our best hybrid cars list, the Highlander Hybrid faces a challenge due to its significant price premium over the standard Highlander. Despite the higher cost, we strongly encourage potential buyers to consider its benefits. For the 2017 model year, Toyota expanded the Highlander Hybrid lineup with additional trim levels and increased the maximum seating capacity to eight passengers, further enhancing its practicality.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid — MSRP $43,090
Chrysler understandably takes pride in the 2017 Pacifica Hybrid, as it holds the distinction of being the world’s first and only hybrid minivan. Furthermore, it’s not just a standard hybrid; it’s a plug-in hybrid, capable of traveling up to 30 miles solely on electric power before the gasoline V6 engine engages. This plug-in capability results in exceptional EPA fuel efficiency ratings. Beyond its hybrid technology, it’s also a genuinely impressive minivan, albeit more expensive than the all-new Pacifica it’s based on, and pricier than most other minivans on the market. However, the Pacifica Hybrid justifies its cost with its intelligent design, comfortable ride, abundance of value-adding standard features, and its role in revitalizing the minivan segment with much-needed innovation.
2017 Hyundai Ioniq — MSRP unknown
Since the Toyota Prius pioneered the hybrid car category, numerous competitors have entered and exited the market, yet few have directly challenged the Prius’s dominance. However, this landscape is poised to shift with the arrival of the all-new Hyundai Ioniq in early 2017. Hyundai designed the Ioniq explicitly to present the Prius with its first significant competition. Initial impressions suggest this will be a fascinating market battle. While electric and standard hybrid versions are imminent, the plug-in hybrid variant is expected later in the summer. Pricing details are still pending, but expectations are that it will be competitively positioned within the cross-shopping range of various Prius models, making it a compelling option in the Great Hybrid Cars segment.
