The Best Plug-in Hybrid SUVs of 2026

• Plug-in hybrids are an ideal choice for most buyers looking for more efficiency.
• Plug-ins are often cheaper than pure EVs and offer the flexibility of internal combustion.
• Here are our top choices, plus an alternative to consider for your next SUV.

You're probably shouting at your screen right now, "Minivans aren't SUVs!" but what if we told you that they kind of are? Hear us out, seriously. They offer lots of room for people and stuff, most have three rows of seats, plenty of them come with all-wheel drive, and you get a slightly higher driving position than you would in a sedan. Also, not that many minivans are being made anymore, which we think is sad, so we're lumping them in with midsize SUVs.

Taxonomy arguments aside, we love the Pacifica PHEV. It has a nice cabin, it's very easy to see out of, and it has a useful 32 miles of EV range. Regrettably, the PHEV's battery pack makes the excellent Stow 'n Go seats of the standard Pacifica a no-stow, no-go proposition, but the trade-off in efficiency is worth it. Like the Niro PHEV, the Pacifica PHEV was dropped for the 2026 model year, so get a 2025 model while you can.

Also worth considering: 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV is an awesome runner-up choice if you aren't ready to embrace the fact that minivans are actually cool. With gorgeous styling, great handling and a luxurious interior, it has a lot to offer. Unfortunately, the cargo area is a bit small, the third-row seats are teensy, and the engine/electric drivetrain can be a little slow to respond to throttle inputs. Still, it's worth considering for many buyers.

Best Luxury Small Plug-in Hybrid SUV

Our pick: 2026 Lexus NX PHEV

Why it won: Lovely interior with typical Lexus build quality; efficient drivetrain; robust list of standard features

Despite being a sort of middle child for Lexus, the NX is one of our favorite models to wear that badge. It's small, which makes it easy to live with in a busy city, and it's still a Lexus, which means it's built like a bank vault with really nice materials. It's very efficient in 450h+ trim, and while not sporty at all, it's quite pleasant to drive. It's a great foot in the door for anyone who wants to try an electrified vehicle without stepping too far out of their comfort zone.

Also worth considering: 2026 Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid

The Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid is an excellent second option thanks to its exceedingly comfortable interior, understated good looks and roomy back seat. The fact that the ride isn't as smooth as the Lexus' and that it's kind of boring to drive are what relegated it to runner-up status. Still, if sedate and stylish are your thing, the XC60 PHEV is for you.

Best Luxury Midsize Plug-in Hybrid SUV

Our pick: 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4Matic

Why it won: Well-appointed and quiet interior; efficient drivetrain with usable electric range; helpful voice command system

Overall, Mercedes' GLE is an excellent luxury SUV. It does almost everything right when it comes to design, materials choice, drivetrain, infotainment and comfort. Adding in the ability to drive it in EV mode for 50 miles just feels like icing on this luxurious Teutonic cake. It will even fully charge in three hours on a Level 2 home charger, making it as easy to use as Mercedes intended. Sure, it's not cheap, and adding any options causes the price to go up quickly, but that's just German cars for you.

Also worth considering: 2026 BMW X5 xDrive50e

BMW's plug-in X5 is a great choice if you want a bit of spice to go with your efficiency. The xDrive50e packs nearly 500 horsepower and puts all that power to the ground through a great chassis, making for a midsize SUV that's powerful and fun to drive. The interior is very well appointed and high-tech, but as with most BMWs, it can feel a little stark compared to the cabin of the Mercedes. The cargo area is generous, but in our opinion, there aren't enough places to put all your stuff in the cabin.

MORE: Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid Cars: What's Right for You?