With fuel costs an issue that remains on top of the minds of so many Americans right now, hybrid vehicles are definitely having their moment. Without committing fully to an EV or a Plug-in Hybrid, the standard hybrid option allows drivers the opportunity to stretch their time between fill-ups without spending too much more on their vehicle.

One vehicle that’s relatively new to the hybrid market is the Mazda CX-50 hybrid, which enters its second year with the 2026 model. Only minor changes have been implemented for the 2026 model year, including standard wireless phone charging, updates to the grille design, and improvements to the transmission.

I recently had the chance to test this hybrid offering from Mazda, and I’m back with a full report on how it compares both within the Mazda lineup, and to rival hybrids from Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and others.

As automakers continue to stake their claims in the area between gas-only vehicles and full EVs, plug-in hybrids continue to play a role in filling the needs of drivers who don’t want to completely skip the gas station, but do want to limit how often they need to go there.

One company in the plug-in market is Hyundai, which offers multiple versions of its popular Tucson SUV — gas, hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

I recently tested a 2026 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Limited model, and I’m back with a full report on how this vehicle competes in its segment vs. rival plug-ins from Toyota, Kia, Mitsubishi, and others.

As they seek to court luxury buyers with eco-friendly leanings, upscale automakers are covering the gamut in terms of electric vehicle offerings.

This means offering not just pure EVs, but also plug-in hybrids for buyers not quite ready to make the leap to fully electric.

One such brand is Sweden’s Volvo, which offers a PHEV (plug-in hybrid) version of its 2026 Volvo XC60 midsize SUV, which offers a total of 35 miles in pure electric driving before the gas engine kicks in.

The luxury plug-in hybrid market is packed with competitors, including offerings from Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Audi and BMW.

I recently spent some time behind the wheel of the 2026 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD plug-in hybrid (Ultra trim level), and I’m back with a full report on how it holds up in this growing luxury sector. Read on to learn more about the XC60 PHEV and how it stacks up.

The number of sedans for sale continues to dwindle, and within that group is an even rarer type of vehicle, the hybrid sedan.

In the realm of nonluxury cars, just a few car makes continue to produce a hybrid sedan for buyers who aren’t quite ready for a leap to EVs but don’t want an ICE vehicle.

I recently tested a 2024 Honda Accord hybrid, one of the leaders in this category. The Accord hybrid underwent a major redesign in 2023 that carries over into the new model year.

Read on for a full report on how the 2024 Accord hybrid holds up against its key midsize hybrid sedan competitors — including the Toyota Camry hybrid and the Hyundai Sonata hybrid.

As the inevitable, industry-wide move toward eco-friendly cars continues, all brands and all segments are getting into the green mode with more hybrids and electric offerings.

Volvo is on this bandwagon too, offering two SUVs in plug-in hybrid modes: The XC60 (mid-size) and XC90 (full-size).

I recently drove a 2020 Volvo XC90 hybrid and I’m back with a full report on what it has to offer for luxury buyers seeking the best high-end but environmentally friendly vehicle.

LOOKS
The XC90 hybrid I tested featured seating for 6 passengers, but you can also opt for a 7-seat version. Be aware though, that the third row is pretty small, and not for adults.

It features an attractive and comfortable interior that all families will enjoy. From the sharp wood inlays that accent the design, to the high quality materials used throughout the vehicle, there is nothing that isn't high end in this vehicle. And most importantly, it’s quite roomy and has excellent storage options and versatility.

The exterior design is also very sharp with Volvo's unique, shapely and bold design that is generally eye-catching. The wheels are another visual standout.