The best hybrid SUV for the money isn’t a Toyota or Honda
In a shocking twist, there is a new hybrid leader in town. The best hybrid SUV for the money isn’t a Toyota or Honda model. In fact, it’s not even Japanese! It’s an underdog with one of the lowest entry costs in its segment.
What is the best hybrid SUV for the money?
Drum roll, please! According to U.S.News, the best hybrid SUV for the money is the Kia Sportage. What a surprise! I’m not, because I’ve spent a week with one and had an excellent and efficient time.
The Kia Sportage Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with an electric motor to generate 227 hp.
It gets an EPA-estimated 43 mpg in the city and up to 44 mpg on the highway. This SUV can travel roughly 500 miles on a single tank of gas. Plus, it doesn’t skimp on pep. The Sportage Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.4 seconds.
This hybrid SUV starts at $28,780 with a five-year ownership cost of $51,741. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has an MSRP of $32,300.
Other features that bolster the Sportage’s value include its spacious interior. It provides 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 74.1 cubic feet overall.
The interior is crafted with upscale, attractive materials. Plus, it’s comfortable with a quiet cabin and smooth performance.Critics often mention the confident transmission as a high point.
Potential drawbacks may include the infotainment controls. You rely on touch-sensitive buttons, and the system can be confusing. It just takes a little extra time to learn and master.
