The 8 Best Hybrid Cars in Canada: Top Rated Models

April 3, 2020 Auto News

Hybrid cars are environmentally friendly, not to mention fuel efficient. As people become more conscious about helping the environment, hybrid and alternative vehicles are gaining popularity among Canadian drivers. A recent survey found that one-third of Canadians are considering an electric car, while two in five drivers plan to lease or buy a vehicle that runs on something other than gas. That’s a lot of drivers who have the potential to make a large environmental impact.

Say you’re one of those drivers—but you have no idea which are the best hybrid cars in Canada to buy. You’re looking for something that has the least negative impact on the environment and you don’t want to break the bank when you buy. We’ve done the research and found a variety of hybrid cars, hybrid SUVs and plug-in hybrids for you to check out on your search.

Here’s our shortlist:

Toyota Prius C Hybrid
Ford Fusion Hybrid SE
Honda Accord Hybrid
Kia Optima Hybrid
Escape Titanium Hybrid
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid
Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid

The Best Hybrid Cars in Canada

Toyota Prius C Hybrid

The Prius has been around for over 20 years so it’s no wonder its hybrid models have become just as big of a hit. This compact hybrid hatchback has standard driver assists including forward collision warning and automated emergency braking. Plus the option for heated seats makes it one of the best hybrid cars in Canada. If you want to lease a 2020 Toyota Prius C Hybrid over a 5-year term, you’re looking at paying around $340 per month. If you want to buy new, you’re looking at a $22,000 starting price.

Ford Fusion Hybrid SE

The 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE sedan has an affordable starting price of $29,000. If you want to lease, you’re looking at $493 per month for 60 months. Some of the Fusion Hybrid SE’s star features include seating for five, MyKey technology (which lets you program keys to operate specific features), a low-profile rotary gear-shift dial and the Ford Co-Pilot360 driving system. If you don’t mind having a gently used model, 2018 Ford Fusion hybrids go for around $15,000.

Honda Accord Hybrid

The Honda Accord Hybrid is one of the best midsize hybrid sedans on the road today. This is a great family vehicle as it has plenty of passenger and trunk space, not to mention the latest tech features. The 2020 model gets an estimated 48 miles per gallon combined and the ride is quiet and smooth. If you’d like to drive the 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, you’re looking at a starting price of just over $36,000.

Kia Optima Hybrid

Starting at just under $31,000, the 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid is an excellent value for the features you get. This model comes with available luxurious heated rear seats, 360-degree camera monitoring system and blindspot detection. Aside from the environmental benefits of driving a hybrid, you’ll also get all the added safety features. It’s a win-win.

The Best Hybrid SUVs in Canada

Escape Titanium Hybrid

If you’re looking for a powerhouse hybrid SUV, the 2020 Escape Titanium Hybrid is it. You can drive this off the lot starting at just over $36,000. This SUV seats five and new features include heated wiper park (which is a windshield wiper de-icer), a B&O sound system and an 88kW electric motor. You’ll get fuel efficiency, space and high-tech features—all while doing the environment a favour.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Toyota has released three RAV4 hybrids starting from $32,000 to $42,000, so if you’re looking for a hybrid SUV, you have options. The base model alone is impressive with the 219 Net HP Toyota Hybrid system with continuously variable transmission, electric on-demand AWD and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. Some of the more advanced models have additional tech add-ons and a more luxurious aesthetic.

The Best Plug-in Hybrids in Canada

Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid

This model allows you to drive fully electric for up to 47 kilometres with 39 mpg in combined fuel economy. The cabin is comfortable though modest and you’ll have less trunk space due to the larger battery pack. Plug-in models start at around $31,600 but if you’re on a tighter budget, you can find excellent 2018 models for under $20,000.

Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid

The Toyota Prius Prime has a 1,035 kilometre combined electric/hybrid driving range and a low 5.5 hour charge time with a standard 120v household outlet. It has the highest total driving range and one of the shortest charging times in its class, making it the most advanced hybrid Toyota’s built to this day. You can take home a 2020 Toyota Prius Prime starting at $32,990.

Pros and Cons of the Best Hybrid Cars in Canada

There are pros and cons to most things and hybrid cars aren’t any different. We thought we’d highlight some of the best and less-desirable aspects of hybrid cars so you can be even more informed as you go car shopping.

Hybrid Pros

Excellent fuel economy, especially in city driving
Less gas consumption and pollution
Potential tax incentives/rewards for buying a hybrid

Hybrid Cons

Battery packs eventually need replacing, which can be costly
Hybrids don’t travel as well at high speeds
Models may be more expensive to purchase outright, even though the gas savings are greater in the long run

At Birchwood Credit, we have access to thousands of reliable makes and models, including hybrid vehicles. No matter your credit background, we will work with you to find you a vehicle and payment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle. To learn more, browse our inventory or complete an online Car Loan Application today.

Written by

Sydney Small