Three Great Hybrids You Can Buy In 2025

Forbes

a day ago

Hybrids, at the moment, are outselling electrics, all to the good since the infrastructure for electrics still has a few bugs. For now, the combination of gas/electric rides delivering that sweet spot of great mileage and increasingly pleasing styles is enjoying great popularity.
Here are three I've recently tested and liked, and why.
2025 Mazda CX-50
The all-new 2025 Mazda CX-50's outstanding feature is its 38 MPG city-highway combined hybrid mileage and its relatively low starting price of around $33,000. It also looks Mazda-sharp. It's also one of the least interesting vehicles to drive I've had so far this year, for a variety of reasons we'll get to.
The hybrid trim is new for 2025. It's not a Mazda-developed hybrid, though—under the skin, it's a Toyota system. Small software and interface updates are on deck for this trim.
It's handsome indeed - tougher than a typical small SUV with squared-off wheel arches, a lower and wider stance, raised roof rails and available off-road appearance packages. It gives off an "active lifestyle" vibe and looks like it should be more rugged than it is when you drive it.
It's signature Mazda with its horizontal layout, stitched trim and tasteful, practical materials. Cargo space is around 38 cubic feet behind the second row. The infotainment system offers either a 10.25-inch or optional 12.3-inch display.
Mazda uses a rotary knob-based interface, which I quite liked. The sound from the optional Bose 12-speaker upgrade is satisfactory. Dual-zone climate control is standard, as are rear seat vents.
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid
It uses Toyota's 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with an electronic CVT and electric AWD. Total system output is 219 horsepower. AWD is electric at the rear axle - there isn't any driveshaft. EPA estimated fuel economy is 38 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined.
The base price is around $33,000. Fully loaded with Premium Plus trim, options, and destination charge (around $1,375), it tops out around $41,000.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy
The 2025 model moves away from its previous rounded appearance to a more angular and, shall we say, commanding presence. Its boxier shape improves interior space and aerodynamics, says Hyundai. Pricing starts at $35,775 for the base SE trim, with the top-tier Calligraphy Hybrid, my tester for a week, reaching up to $50,657 with options and delivery charge.
It's mod-looking, unusual for the badge. Dual 12.3-inch displays serve as the digital gauge cluster and infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a UV-C sterilization compartment for small items add to its contemporary feel. That means you can throw smartphones, keys, sunglasses, glasses, earbuds, AirPods cases, wallets or loose change in there and they will be germ-free afterward.
The higher trims, like my Calligraphy, deliver Nappa leather seats, ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. The available premium Bose 12-speaker sound system is rich and punchy.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy
The Calligraphy delivers a 1.6T 4-cylinder hybrid engine with a 6-speed automatic. With the electric motor, you'll get a combined 231 horsepower and up to 36 mpg city/highway combined.
It's not a rocket and you don't want it to be. It's comfy and composed and the steering is responsive, especially in Sport mode. The suspension smooths out road imperfections, nicely, another reason it would be good for cross-country drives. If it's not remarkable in its handling and road manners, neither is it dull. It gets the job done, and that's what you want.
2025 Honda Civic Grand Touring Hybrid
Like a good diner, the Civic does a lot of things well, and they've rarely made a misstep since their 1972 launch. Their Hatchback Hybrid Sport Touring provided a handsome, speedy week's experience. The price is more than right, too, with a starting sticker of $32,950, $34,500 with options. Let's have a look.
It's a cutie, folks. From its zippy, sporty countenance, body-colored grille, front spoiler and blacked-out accent, you're dressed for most occasions. The 18-inch alloy wheels and LED lighting elements further give you a mod, snappy look. My tester was painted a darling 'Boost Blue.' It's one of the most non-threatening cars on the road.
Inside, it's spacious and premium, moreso than you would expect in this trim. It comes equipped with leather-trimmed seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat.There's ample space for passengers and cargo, making it suitable for both daily commutes, road trips or you just may hang out in the car for whatever reason - a phone conversation, a meal.
Techwise, the centerpiece of the interior is the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Google Built-In. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. More about the system below.
2025 Honda Civic Grand Touring Hybrid
A 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle inline 4-cylinder engine is paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is generous, with an EPA rating of 48 mpg city/highway combined. I felt that economy in a direct way - it was one of those weeks where I just seem to drive and drive and still had plenty of gas at the end.
The Civic Hatchback Hybrid Sport Touring offers responsive steering and an accelerator that does what you ask of it, as do the brakes. Visibility is more than adequate. At one point on the freeway, a driver in the left lane swerved into my lane in front of me and I was able to instantly respond and avoid a crunch, like it was nothing. My bombardier father said 'An inch is as good as a mile if they miss you.' WTG, Civic!