Hybrid technology has revolutionized the automotive landscape, extending beyond just compact city cars to encompass nearly every vehicle segment. Today, the allure of electrified vehicles is stronger than ever, particularly with the increasing availability of all-wheel drive (AWD) in hybrid models. AWD systems provide superior traction in all weather conditions, making them a sought-after feature, especially in the crossover, SUV, and luxury car categories. For those seeking the perfect blend of fuel efficiency and all-weather capability, we’ve compiled a list of the best all-wheel drive hybrid cars of 2025.
This ranking is determined using a BuzzScore system, which evaluates vehicles against their direct competitors in the segment. While cars on this list may have similar scores, they may not always be in direct competition with each other. You can learn more about the BuzzScore rating system here. This list is continuously updated to reflect the latest BuzzScores and new vehicle releases.
It’s important to note that this list focuses exclusively on hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs); mild hybrids have been excluded from consideration.
1. Toyota Prius
2025 Toyota Prius
8.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,350
Engine: 2.0L I4 Hybrid
Base Trim Engine: 2L I4 Hybrid
Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined): 57/56/57 MPG
It’s almost impossible to discuss AWD hybrids without mentioning the Toyota Prius, and for good reason. The 2025 Toyota Prius continues to lead the pack, building on the impressive redesign of the latest generation. Available in both plug-in hybrid and standard hybrid configurations, the standard hybrid Prius offers AWD starting at a competitive $29,750. Powering this efficient machine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined 196 horsepower when equipped with all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive models are also available for those prioritizing maximum fuel economy. In terms of efficiency, the AWD Prius base trim achieves an exceptional 53/54/54 mpg city/highway/combined. While impressive, the front-wheel-drive LE trim holds the title as America’s most efficient hybrid.
Beyond its fuel-sipping nature, the latest Prius generation is surprisingly engaging to drive. It offers a comfortable ride thanks to its well-tuned suspension and minimizes wind noise even at highway speeds. Overtaking is also effortless, with ample power on tap when needed.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
2. Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid
2025 Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $115,500
Base Trim Engine: 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 Plug-in Hybrid
Base Trim Horsepower: 463 hp
While the Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid might seem out of place on a list focused on fuel efficiency, its inclusion is justified by its remarkable blend of performance and hybrid technology, combined with all-wheel drive. Yes, with a starting price of $115,500, it’s a premium offering. However, it’s a Porsche, delivering on the brand’s promise of luxury and exhilarating power. The 4 E-Hybrid variant represents the most accessible AWD hybrid within the Panamera range. Under the hood, a 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 hybrid engine generates a robust 463 combined horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, seamlessly blending engine and electric motor power.
The Panamera E-Hybrid truly embodies duality. It can launch from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds, showcasing its sports car DNA. Alternatively, it can glide silently in all-electric mode for up to 28 miles, offering emission-free commuting.
3. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 2.5L Dynamic Force I4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 219 hp combined
Transmission: CVT
MSRP: $32,300
Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined): 41/38/39 MPG
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid with all-wheel drive stands as a testament to practicality and efficiency. The RAV4’s popularity is undeniable; it was the best-selling car in the US last year, even surpassing the long-reigning Ford F-150. Every trim level of the RAV4 Hybrid comes standard with all-wheel drive, with the Hybrid LE trim starting at $31,900. It’s powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system producing a combined 219 horsepower. The EPA estimates fuel economy for the RAV4 Hybrid LE at an impressive 41/38/39 mpg city/highway/combined. For those seeking a touch more ruggedness, the Woodland Edition trim maintains the same efficient powertrain (with slightly adjusted fuel economy) while adding off-road-oriented features.
Unlike the standard RAV4 which uses an eight-speed automatic transmission, the hybrid variant employs a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While CVTs sometimes face criticism, in the RAV4 Hybrid, it’s a surprisingly positive aspect. The CVT contributes to a smoother and quieter driving experience compared to the gasoline-only RAV4, offering more immediate power delivery and a more refined overall feel than the traditional automatic.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
12 Best Hybrid SUVs For Towing In 2025
These 12 SUVs prove that you don’t have to sacrifice fuel efficiency for robust towing capacity.
4. Toyota Camry
2025 Toyota Camry
8.5/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,400
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 225 hp (FWD) | 232 hp (AWD)
Fuel Economy: 53/50/51 mpg (best: LE FWD)
Toyota’s dominance in the AWD hybrid car market continues with the latest Camry. With decades of experience in hybrid technology, Toyota’s commitment to development is evident in the quality of its hybrid offerings. The 2025 Camry is now exclusively available as a hybrid, signaling a full embrace of electrification for this iconic sedan. The entry-level Camry LE trim starts at $30,225 with all-wheel drive, though a more affordable and even more fuel-efficient front-wheel-drive version is also offered. The AWD Camry utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system, producing a combined 232 horsepower. Fuel economy is rated at an impressive 51/49/50 mpg city/highway/combined.
While the V6 engine option is no longer available, the new standard hybrid four-cylinder proves to be more than capable. It provides responsive acceleration and ample power for highway driving and passing maneuvers, ensuring a confident driving experience.
– Nicole Wakelin, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
2025 Toyota Camry Crowned First-Ever CarBuzz Car Of The Year
The Camry’s recognition as CarBuzz Car of the Year highlights a new era for Toyota and the automotive industry.
5. Kia Sorento Hybrid
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid
8.2/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $38,690
Engine: 1.6L Turbo Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 227 hp
Fuel Economy: 36/36/36 mpg (FWD) | 34/34/34 mpg (AWD)
The Kia Sorento Hybrid is a noteworthy contender in the AWD hybrid segment, especially for families needing three-row seating. It earns its place on this list as a compelling AWD hybrid SUV. Available in EX and SX Prestige trim levels, the EX starts at $38,690. While the SX Prestige is exclusively AWD, the EX trim offers a front-wheel-drive option. Both trims share a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy for the AWD models is rated at 34/34/34 mpg across city, highway, and combined driving.
6. Mazda CX-70 PHEV
2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV
8.0/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $54,400
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Plug-in Hybrid
Horsepower: 323 hp
Fuel Economy: 56 MPGe/25 mpg combined
Electric Range: 26 miles
The Mazda CX-70 is a fresh addition to the market for the 2025 model year. Effectively a two-row version of the CX-90, the CX-70 offers generous passenger space and distinctive styling. This plug-in hybrid SUV is available in Premium and Premium Plus trims, starting at $54,400 for the Premium. Both trims come standard with Mazda’s rear-biased i-ACTIV AWD system. Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, producing a combined 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both trims achieve 25 mpg/56 MPGe combined fuel economy and offer an all-electric range of 25 miles, adding to the CX-70 PHEV’s appeal as a sophisticated and efficient SUV.
While the PHEV powertrain doesn’t dramatically increase outright acceleration compared to other CX-70 models, the engine noise is noticeably more refined than the six-cylinder variants. The transitions between electric and gasoline power are remarkably seamless, virtually imperceptible to the average driver.
– Ian Wright, CarBuzz
Driven: 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Is Mazda’s Best SUV Yet
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV delivers high quality and value in a two-row SUV, bordering on luxury, with a potent and efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain.
7. Honda CR-V Hybrid
2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
7.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 2.0L I4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 204 hp combined
Fuel Economy: 43/36/40 mpg (FWD) | 40/34/37 mpg (AWD)
The CR-V, a long-standing favorite since its introduction in 1997, has offered a hybrid powertrain for several years. The 2025 model year presents three hybrid trims out of a total of six available options. The most accessible hybrid trim, the Sport Hybrid, starts at $34,650. Under the hood, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid system produces a combined 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. While front-wheel drive is available, the AWD versions still maintain impressive fuel economy figures of 40/34/37 mpg city/highway/combined, making it a practical and efficient choice.
8. BMW X5 Hybrid
2025 BMW X5 Hybrid
Base MSRP: $73,800
Engine: 3.0L I6 Turbo PHEV
Horsepower: 483 hp combined
Concluding our list of top AWD hybrid cars is the BMW X5 Hybrid. The X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid SUV, starting at $73,800, is the sole hybrid trim for the 2025 X5, and BMW has ensured it’s packed with luxury features and a potent powertrain. A 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder hybrid engine delivers a combined 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Despite its significant power output, the X5 xDrive50e achieves an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 58 MPGe combined. Furthermore, this AWD hybrid boasts an impressive all-electric driving range of 39 miles, further enhancing its appeal.
BMW Hybrid SUVs: Price, MPG, Performance, And More
BMW’s hybrid SUV lineup offers a spectrum of options, from efficient mild hybrids to high-performance plug-in models.
Key Characteristics of AWD Hybrid and PHEV Vehicles
What are the defining traits of AWD hybrid vehicles? Here are some common characteristics:
- Powertrain: The core element is electric assistance. Both hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars combine gasoline engines with electric motors and batteries. PHEVs offer plug-in recharging, while standard hybrids recharge through regenerative braking and engine power.
- Weight: Hybrid and electric vehicles generally weigh more than their gasoline counterparts due to the added electrical components. AWD systems further increase weight, making AWD hybrids typically heavier vehicles.
- Features and Pricing: Hybrid vehicles often come with a higher price tag but are also generally equipped with more features compared to base models. AWD hybrid models often offer the benefits and comfort expected in mid- to upper-range trims.
- Fuel Efficiency: The primary motivation for hybridization is improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. Hybrid cars generally provide better gas mileage, while PHEVs offer the added benefit of all-electric driving range, although charging considerations are relevant.
Kia
Considerations When Purchasing AWD Hybrid Cars
Before deciding on an AWD hybrid vehicle, consider these advantages and disadvantages to make an informed choice:
Pros
- Reduced long-term fuel costs
- Enhanced traction from all-wheel drive, beneficial in challenging weather
- Practical all-electric range in AWD PHEVs for daily commutes
- Potential for increased power output from electric motor assistance
- Comprehensive warranties covering battery and hybrid components
- Hybrid technology availability across various vehicle types, including trucks, SUVs, and sedans
- Potential eligibility for tax credits for certain plug-in hybrid models in the USA
Cons
- Potential negative impact on performance due to increased weight
- Higher initial purchase price compared to non-hybrid counterparts
- Extended charging times for plug-in hybrids, and potentially limited all-electric range in some PHEVs
What Is The Best Hybrid SUV?
With numerous hybrid SUV options available, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of hybrid technology is crucial for making the right purchase decision.
Reliability of AWD Hybrids
The reliability of AWD hybrids isn’t inherently tied to the combination of hybrid technology and all-wheel drive. While there’s a common notion that fewer mechanical parts equate to higher reliability (or conversely, more electrical components mean more potential issues), this isn’t a definitive rule. Like other hybrid vehicles, AWD hybrids are typically backed by extensive warranties covering the hybrid system components, offering peace of mind.
Off-Road Capability of AWD Plug-in Hybrids
When properly equipped, an AWD PHEV can be a capable off-road vehicle for several reasons: the instant torque from electric motors is advantageous for navigating obstacles requiring low-end power, the quiet operation in EV mode minimizes environmental disturbance, and the reduced emissions are environmentally conscious.
Sources: Toyota, Porsche, Kia, Mazda, Honda, BMW, EPA
