As the world continues to
shift towards environmentally conscious practices, the automotive industry is
following suit with the production of hybrid and electric cars. In California,
by 2035, all vehicles sold will need to be electric-powered. But at this time,
the car that is gaining popularity is the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle
(PHEV).
I had the opporunity to drive most of the PHEV in the market and I am sharing what I believe are the better choices regardless of the cost.
PHEVs offer a compelling
case for city driving due to their fuel efficiency. PHEVs use an electric motor
and an internal gasoline combustion engine (ICE). The electric motor is powered
by a battery that can be charged through a standard outlet or a charging
station. The gas engine can be used to power the car directly or recharge the
battery. This combination of motors allows longer driving distances without
stopping and recharging the battery.
In city driving, PHEVs excel
due to their ability to operate in electric-only mode for short distances. Like
when you are in heavy traffic or on a busy freeway. These cars can run up to 25
mph so they can keep up with heavy traffic without problems in the electric
mode. This reduces the fuel consumed and emissions produced, making them an
environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, PHEVs can be charged overnight,
taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates and reducing the strain on the
power grid during peak hours.
Several manufacturers offer
PHEV cars, each with unique features and benefits. The top five best 2023 PHEVs
currently available are:
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: This is medium size SUV that has a premium interior and
plenty of interior space. It even comes with three rows of seats. It starts at
$39,845 and has an electric-only range of 38 miles. It has a 2.5-liter
four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing 221 horsepower. The AWD
platform (all-wheel drive) gives it more grip and safety on all surfaces.
Toyota Prius Prime PHEV: an all-new design that comes as a 4-door sedan styling
that is sharp and modern. It has the perfect size for daily commuting in Los
Angeles. It starts at $32,350 and has an electric-only range of 40 miles. Power
comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder
engine and an electric motor, producing 150 horsepower.
Kia Niro PHEV: A compact SUV with significant design appeal
and a roomy interior. Kids have good space in the back seats. I like the double
display integration across the dashboard. Pricing starts at $33,800, and can
have an electric-only range of 33 miles. It has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder
engine and an electric motor producing 180 horsepower.
Ford Escape PHEV:
With a new look in front and back, new
Sync 4 infotainment system, and many modern tech features are the best Escape
ever. This compact crossover starts at $41,000
and has an electric-only range of 37 miles. It maintains a 2.5-liter
four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, producing 221 horsepower.
Hyundai Tucson PHEV:
Unique exterior design that makes it stand out. Very nice ride in the city with
the best acceleration. Priced at
$38,400, it has an electric-only range of 32 miles. The engine feels a lot
bigger than what it is. A combination of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and
an electric motor makes a total of 261 horsepower.
PHEVs offer a compelling
case for city driving due to their fuel efficiency and electric-only
capabilities. The United States has several PHEVs available, each with its own
unique features and benefits. Over the past ten years, PHEVs have experienced a
steady increase in sales volume, and their price has decreased over time. As
the world continues to shift towards environmentally conscious practices, PHEVs
offer a viable option for drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint
while still enjoying the benefits of a traditional car.
As Driven by Ricardo Rodriguez-Long
