The 10 Best Hybrids Under $35k In 2025!

The 10 Best Hybrids Under $35k In 2025!
Not everyone is fully convinced by the concept of EVs, so for many of us, hybrids can be a great option. Here are our top 10 hybrid picks under $35k in 2025.
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
If you're currently looking for a budget-friendly small car with great hybrid fuel efficiency, the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid should definitely be high on your list. At first look, it looks like your typical Elantra sedan, but underneath, this model packs a hybrid punch designed for pretty impressive savings at the pump. The Hyundai Elantra was first introduced in 2021, and for the 2025 model; things remain pretty much the same, simply because it’s already that good.
Powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, it delivers a combined 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission provides responsive performance, which sets it apart from the often sluggish CVTs found in many hybrids.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Elantra Hybrid doesn’t disappoint. The base Hybrid Blue model boasts an impressive EPA-estimated 51 mpg city and 58 mpg highway. These numbers are hard to beat in the hybrid market.
In terms of size, the Elantra measures about 185 inches long, 71 inches wide, and 55 inches high, with a wheelbase of 107 inches. Despite its compact exterior, it offers generous interior space. Front passengers enjoy 42 inches of legroom, while rear passengers have 38 inches. The 14 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place is more than what you get in the 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid, which has 13 cubic feet of cargo space and slightly less rear legroom.
Starting at just $25,100, the Elantra Hybrid is one of the most affordable hybrids around. For the best value, the base Elantra Hybrid Blue offers a great mix of standard features and hard-to-beat level fuel efficiency.
The interior continues to impress with its driver-focused dashboard and minimalistic passenger side. While the base model includes cloth upholstery and manual seats, you can upgrade to synthetic leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
On the outside, the Elantra keeps its bold, edgy styling with updated front and rear designs for 2025. Fresh paint and interior color options give it a modern touch.
New interior features include push-button start, dual automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a 4.2-inch driver display with navigation, SiriusXM Data Services, and Bluelink Services for remote start.
Safety is another strong point for the 2025 Elantra, with lane-keeping assist, speed limit assist, blind-spot collision warning, and forward collision avoidance system as standard features, making sure you’re well protected on the road.
Ford Maverick
Ford is shaking up the scene with the 2025 Maverick compact pickup and packs new features that are sure to impress. For those who want efficiency without sacrificing capability, the hybrid powertrain now comes with an all-wheel-drive option, a top customer request since the Maverick's debut in 2021.
The Maverick Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter hybrid engine with a CVT, generating 191 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque. While standard front-wheel-drive models achieve an impressive 42 mpg in the city, the all-wheel-drive version slightly drops to 40 mpg, which is still impressive.
In terms of size, the Maverick measures 200 inches long, with a 121-inch wheelbase, 72 inches wide, and 68 inches high. Inside, it offers 42 inches of front legroom and 36 inches in the back, providing a comfortable ride for passengers as well as plenty of cargo space.
The starting price for the 2025 Maverick XL Hybrid FWD has risen to $27,890 from its original $21,490. Adding all-wheel drive to the hybrid model will cost an additional $2,220. Even with the price increase, the Maverick is still a great value for what you get.
The cabin of the new Maverick might remind you of Cozy Coupe with its dash and door trim, but its bright, airy design and numerous storage compartments make up for it. Ford has also updated the exterior design to differentiate trims more clearly. Each trim now has its own unique grille, and the front bumper and headlamps have also undergone a refresh. Dark LED headlamps are now standard, with higher trims getting upgraded LED projectors and accent lights.
Tech upgrades are big for 2025. Every Maverick now comes with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster running the latest Sync 4 system. This includes improved voice recognition, connected navigation, and a built-in 5G modem for over-the-air updates and better connectivity. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard.
Safety features are robust with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, and lane keep assist as standard.
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