Top 5 Most Popular Hybrid Midsize SUVs in 2025: Fuel Efficiency, Price & Features Compared
1. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Why it’s good:
This is essentially a larger version of the Toyota Highlander, with more interior space (especially in the third row) and a hybrid powertrain built for families. Car & Driver notes it's “well-rounded” and earns “Editor’s Choice” for 2025.
Fuel consumption / efficiency:
Why it’s good:
The Sorento Hybrid gives you a three-row midsize SUV (though slightly smaller in the third row than some rivals) with a hybrid powertrain, and many tech & comfort features for the money.
Fuel consumption:
Why it’s good:
While the CR-V is technically a compact-to-midsize SUV, its hybrid version has gained prominence for offering strong fuel economy, comfortable interior, and the reliability of Honda. Car & Driver notes the hybrid system produces 204 hp.
Fuel consumption:
Why it’s good:
Although the Tucson is not strictly “three-row”, it’s a larger compact/midsize hybrid SUV that’s very popular, especially for those who want efficiency and modern features in a slightly more compact package. Car & Driver says the 2025 Tucson Hybrid has 231 hp.
Fuel consumption:
Why it’s good:
Although the Tucson is not strictly “three-row”, it’s a larger compact/midsize hybrid SUV that’s very popular, especially for those who want efficiency and modern features in a slightly more compact package. Car & Driver says the 2025 Tucson Hybrid has 231 hp.
Fuel consumption:
1. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Why it’s good:
This is essentially a larger version of the Toyota Highlander, with more interior space (especially in the third row) and a hybrid powertrain built for families. Car & Driver notes it's “well-rounded” and earns “Editor’s Choice” for 2025.
Fuel consumption / efficiency:
- The hybrid version (2.5 L hybrid) is rated at about 37 mpg city / 34 mpg highway (FWD) and about 36 city / 32 highway (AWD) for combined roughly ~34-36 mpg.
- The “Hybrid Max” (stronger powertrain) drops to around 27-28 mpg combined.
Pricing: - For example, the Hybrid Nightshade trim is listed at MSRP around $52,610 in the U.S. (plus freight).
Dimensions / cargo / seating: - Seats up to 7 or 8 passengers depending on configuration.
- Cargo space: behind the third row about 20.6 cu ft, behind the second row (third row folded) up to about 58 cu ft, and folding both rows gives up to ~ 97-98 cu ft.
- Because of its larger size (wheelbase and length) than the standard Highlander, you get better third-row legroom (~33.5 inches) for adults.
Tire / wheel / extra info: - Standard features include three-zone climate control, available heated/ventilated front & second-row seats.
- While specific tyre size isn’t always listed in my sources, midsize three-row SUVs in this class often come with 18- to 20-inch wheels as standard; for higher trims possibly 20-inch.
Summary verdict:
If you need lots of room (3rd row usable by adults) and want hybrid efficiency in a three-row midsize SUV, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is a very solid choice. The trade-off is price (higher) and slightly less fuel economy if you go with the stronger variant.
2. Kia Sorento Hybrid
Why it’s good:
The Sorento Hybrid gives you a three-row midsize SUV (though slightly smaller in the third row than some rivals) with a hybrid powertrain, and many tech & comfort features for the money.
Fuel consumption:
- According to KBB, the 2025 Sorento Hybrid is rated at up to about 36 mpg combined (depending on trim).
- Another source shows for a test (~34 city / 34 highway) in AWD trim.
Pricing - Starting MSRP around $40,105 for the 2025 model (in the U.S.).
Dimensions / cargo / seating: - Seats six (with optional second-row captain’s chairs) or seven depending on version.
- Cargo volumes: behind third row ~ 12.6 cu ft; behind second row ~ between 38.5-45.0 cu ft; behind first row with both rear rows folded ~ 75.5 cu ft.
- Interior room for 1st/2nd/3rd rows (legroom): 41.4/40.7/29.6 inches respectively.
Tire / wheel / extra info: - The interior features are strong: 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless phone charging, multiple USB ports across rows.
Summary verdict:
If you want a three-row midsize hybrid SUV but don’t need the absolute largest third row, the Sorento Hybrid offers very good value: strong efficiency, decent space, and modern tech. The trade-off is less cargo space behind the third row and somewhat tighter third-row legroom.
3. Honda CR‑V Hybrid
Why it’s good:
While the CR-V is technically a compact-to-midsize SUV, its hybrid version has gained prominence for offering strong fuel economy, comfortable interior, and the reliability of Honda. Car & Driver notes the hybrid system produces 204 hp.
Fuel consumption:
- According to Honda, the hybrid version is rated at 43 mpg city / 36 mpg highway for 2WD (2026 model).
- Another source gives for 2025 Hybrid combined about 40 mpg.
Pricing: - Example: starting MSRP listed around $35,630 for the 2026 CR-V Hybrid.
Dimensions / cargo / seating: - Seats five passengers.
- Cargo: one spec gives “cargo capacity 36.3 cu ft” (for some trim) with seats up.
- Legroom: front ~41.3 inches, rear ~41 inches.
Tire / wheel / extra info: - Features include roof rails, hands-free power tailgate, wireless connectivity.
Summary verdict:
If you don’t require three rows and want excellent fuel economy plus a reputable brand, the CR-V Hybrid is compelling. The trade-off: fewer seats (only five), less cargo behind multiple rows (since there is no third row), and you won’t get as much space as some three-row midsize rivals.
4. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Why it’s good:
Although the Tucson is not strictly “three-row”, it’s a larger compact/midsize hybrid SUV that’s very popular, especially for those who want efficiency and modern features in a slightly more compact package. Car & Driver says the 2025 Tucson Hybrid has 231 hp.
Fuel consumption:
- Not all specific numbers in the sources here, but given the hybrid system (231 hp) and standard AWD, real-world efficiency will be strong for its size.
Pricing: - From one source: 2025 Tucson Hybrid starts at ~$33,465 up to ~$41,295.
Dimensions / cargo / seating: - Seats five.
- As it’s a smaller midsize/large compact SUV, cargo space will be less than a full three-row midsize. (Exact cargo numbers not captured in my sources here.)
Tire / wheel / extra info: - Standard all-wheel drive (in the Hybrid version) and pleasant driving dynamics.
Summary verdict:
If your needs don’t include a third row and you prioritize fuel economy and modern tech in a slightly smaller footprint (easier parking, less bulk) then the Tucson Hybrid is a strong choice. The trade-off: less seating capacity (5 seats), less cargo room behind multiple rows.
5. Kia Sportage Hybrid
Why it’s good:
Although the Tucson is not strictly “three-row”, it’s a larger compact/midsize hybrid SUV that’s very popular, especially for those who want efficiency and modern features in a slightly more compact package. Car & Driver says the 2025 Tucson Hybrid has 231 hp.
Fuel consumption:
- Not all specific numbers in the sources here, but given the hybrid system (231 hp) and standard AWD, real-world efficiency will be strong for its size. Car and Driver
Pricing: - From one source: 2025 Tucson Hybrid starts at ~$33,465 up to ~$41,295.
Dimensions / cargo / seating: - Seats five.
- As it’s a smaller midsize/large compact SUV, cargo space will be less than a full three-row midsize. (Exact cargo numbers not captured in my sources here.)
Tire / wheel / extra info: - Standard all-wheel drive (in the Hybrid version) and pleasant driving dynamics.
Summary verdict:
If your needs don’t include a third row and you prioritize fuel economy and modern tech in a slightly smaller footprint (easier parking, less bulk) then the Tucson Hybrid is a strong choice. The trade-off: less seating capacity (5 seats), less cargo room behind multiple rows.
Final Thoughts & Buying Tips
- Seating / space needs: If you regularly carry 6-8 people (kids + friends) you’ll really want a three-row SUV (Grand Highlander, Sorento). If five seats suffice, maybe a two-row model (CR-V, Tucson, Sportage) is more efficient and easier to live with.
- Fuel economy: Hybrid versions give big gains over standard petrol-only versions. For example, the Grand Highlander Hybrid gets ~34-36 mpg combined in 3-row form, which is excellent for its size.
- Cargo & usability: Be sure to check the cargo space with the third row up (many buyers forget this). E.g., the Sorento Hybrid has only ~12.6 cu ft behind the third row. That may be fine for small items, but tight for big luggage.
- Price vs value: Hybrid trims often cost more than standard petrol versions; check the premium, then estimate your fuel savings over time to see if it’s worth it.
- Extras / tech: Nearly all modern hybrids include advanced safety tech, good infotainment, connectivity features. But wheel/tyre size can affect ride comfort (larger wheels often more road noise).
- Tire/wheel info: Always check the exact wheel size and tyre spec for the trim you consider. Larger wheels often give better looks but may cost more to replace, and ride comfort/efficiency can vary.
- Resale and reliability: Brands like Toyota and Honda have strong reputations for reliability; this can be an advantage for long-term ownership.
- Driving style & conditions: If you do many highway miles, hybrid systems still show benefit—but if you mostly do short city trips, check if the hybrid system is optimized for that (some hybrids shine more in city/regenerative braking).
