Best Hybrid Hatchbacks of 2022

Top New Hybrid Hatchbacks

Noteworthy contenders in the segment include:

• Chevrolet Volt: As the top-rated hybrid hatchback of 2019, it’s somewhat disappointing that the Volt has been discontinued. It was a sprightly little runabout and the compact segments leading plug-in hybrid, proffering an unprecedented all-electric travel range. It came equipped solely with a 1.5-liter engine augmented with two galvanic motors and mated to an automated CVT driving the front wheels. Charging its 18.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack would take around 20 hours on a standard 120 V household power outlet.
• Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid: The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models of the Ioniq are acclaimed for their affordability, fuel-efficiency, and their eye-catching curb appeal. Both come powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four unit integrated with a single electronic motor. A six-speed automatic transmission does duty, directing outputs to the cars’ FWD setup. The plug-in version can travel up to 29 miles on electrons alone.
• Toyota Prius: Electrifying the venerated Prius is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder combustion engine that’s supplemented by a galvanic motor on the front axle of FWD variants with a smaller, additional mechanism on the rear axle of the AWD variants. The Prius Prime is the PHEV version, which features the same powertrain composition as the HEV. However, it is only available as an FWD hatch. In EV-only mode, it will travel up to 25 miles per charge.

What to Consider Before Buying

While hatches may lack the athletic appeal of sportier coupes or sedans, or the perks exhibited by any decent SUV, they do still have quite a lot going for them:

Pros

• Peppy and nimble in urban environments
• Considerably frugal on fuel consumption
• Relatively affordable as semi-electric cars

Cons

• Cabin quality and passenger room are often subpar
• Electronic components compromise hatch space
• AWD is not commonly available for the class

FAQs