SUVs are currently the most popular passenger vehicles, selling more units than sedans and hatches combined. The segment is so popular that some automakers are adding lift kits to their existing hatchbacks to re-brand them as SUVs.
The luxury SUV popularity started in the late 1990s with the introduction of the first-generation BMW X5, the first of the mid-size models to showcase luxury, performance, and build quality – three aspects previously only available in the higher-end sedans of the time. The segment soon gained momentum, and Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and VW joined in with their takes on the SUV.
While most luxury SUVs feature big and powerful engines, automakers have added hybrid drivetrains to reduce carbon emissions and improve fuel economy.
If you are looking for the latest model hybrid SUVs for fuel efficiency, here are the top three SUVs to buy in 2023.
The 2024 Lexus UX Hybrid
The Lexus UX debuted in 2019 as the luxury brand’s smallest crossover. Although this subcompact Lexus SUV previously offered a gas-only engine option, the 2024 Lexus UX comes exclusively as a hybrid model.
The vehicle is powered by a 2.0-litre I4 engine combined with the Lexus Hybrid drive technology; the 2024 Lexus UX Hybrid provides a total system output of 181 hp and a combined fuel economy rating of 42 MPG. Aside from being a fuel sipper, the 2024 Lexus UX is also the most affordable model in the Lexus stable.
Some of the pros of the 2024 Lexus UX Hybrid include:
- Excellent fuel economy
- Relatively affordable for a luxury-branded SUV
- Subcompact size makes the UX manoeuvrable even in tight areas
Some of the cons of the 2024 Lexus UX Hybrid include:
- Unimpressive acceleration
- Tight 2nd-row seats
- Small cargo area (17.1 cubic feet)
The 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid
The compact Lexus NX crossover SUV, which is built on the same TNGA-K platform as the Toyota RAV4, is the bigger brother of the UX. For 2024, the Lexus NX offers two hybrid engine configurations with different power outputs.
First, the Lexus NX 350h is a standard hybrid with a 240-hp system output. Second, the Lexus 450h+ trims are plug-in hybrid variants that offer 304 horses and a 37-mile all-electric driving range.
The Lexus NX Hybrid has enjoyed a perfect 5/5 reliability verdict from CR from 2022 to 2023. With the 2024 Lexus NX primarily being a carryover model year, there’s no reason to believe that this high level of reliability will falter for the upcoming year.
Some of the pros of the 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid include:
- Excellent fuel economy ratings, especially for the plug-in hybrid
- Exquisite cabin quality
- Leading-edge safety, infotainment, and driver assistance systems
Some of the cons of the 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid include:
- Cramped rear legroom compared to some rival luxury SUVs
- Small cargo area (22.7 cu ft. with all seats in place)
The Mercedes-Benz GLE350e 4Matic
The fourth generation of Mercedes’ mid-size SUV, first known as the M-Class before changing to GLE, is bigger and more muscular than ever. The go-to hybrid version is the GLE350e, which, contrary to the numbers after the model name, does not feature a six-cylinder engine.
The GLE 350 e features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four – with the same model featuring a turbo diesel, it’s mated to an electric motor and a 31.2 kWh battery. The total output is 330 hp and 516 lb-ft, with a 50-mile electric-only range.
Some of the pros of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE350e 4Matic include:
- Luxurious interior
- Comfortable seats
- Available Airmatic air suspension
Some of the cons of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE350e 4Matic include:
- Numb steering
Conclusion
These above-listed SUVs are three packages in one. They are the latest model vehicles, affordable and hybrid, which means a lot of opportunity to save on fuel economy. They should be on your priority list if you are interested in the latest hybrid SUV.
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