While electric vehicles (EVs) are capturing significant attention in the automotive world, hybrid technology continues to advance, offering a compelling alternative for drivers not yet ready to fully commit to electric. These gas-electric hybrids, particularly in the popular small SUV category, provide excellent fuel economy without the need for charging infrastructure. They leverage regenerative braking and engine shut-off at idle to maximize efficiency.
This technology, pioneered decades ago with models like the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight, has matured considerably, boasting sophisticated transmissions and computer controls. Hybrid Small Suvs are an ideal stepping stone into electrification, especially for urban dwellers who lack convenient overnight charging but desire reduced fuel consumption.
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: Efficiency Prioritizes Sportiness
The Mazda CX-50, already known for its rugged styling, introduces an all-new hybrid variant for 2025. The CX-50 Hybrid integrates Toyota’s acclaimed hybrid powertrain, borrowing heavily from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Expect a similar output of 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-liter inline-four engine, paired with a CVT and an electric all-wheel-drive system utilizing three electric motors.
Compared to the standard gasoline CX-50, the hybrid version offers more horsepower but less torque, and significantly less power than the CX-50 Turbo. This highlights the CX-50 Hybrid’s focus on fuel efficiency over outright performance, a different approach compared to the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid which offers a sportier N-Line variant.
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid achieves a combined fuel economy of 38 mpg, slightly less than the RAV4 Hybrid’s 39 mpg. Mazda engineers invested considerable effort in adapting the Toyota Hybrid System (THS) to the CX-50 platform. Subtle styling modifications beyond hybrid badging include extended body cladding and a slightly taller roof to maintain ground clearance (7.6 inches) despite the battery placement under the rear seats. While longer than many competitors, the CX-50 Hybrid offers 29.2 cubic feet of cargo space, a slight reduction compared to gas-powered CX-50 models (31.4 cu-ft) and less than the RAV4 and Tucson Hybrids (38.7 cu-ft).
The CX-50 Hybrid distinguishes itself with a refined interior, particularly in higher trims, offering a near-luxury ambiance and numerous upscale features. The Premium Plus trim features two-tone leather seats with camel-colored stitching, echoed throughout the doors and dashboard. A rotary controller, often found in luxury vehicles, minimizes touchscreen smudges. Convenient buttons near the steering column control memory seats, a front camera, and parking sensor deactivation.
Despite a panoramic sunroof, the interior design leans towards a classic feel with analog gauges and a relatively small, monochromatic infotainment screen (unless using wireless CarPlay or Android Auto). The CX-50 Hybrid delivers a more refined and fuel-conscious driving experience than previous Mazdas, prioritizing efficiency over sporty performance found in other CX-50 models.
Priced between $34,000 and $40,000 MSRP, the CX-50 Hybrid positions itself above gasoline versions but below Turbo models, a mid-range placement unlike the Hyundai Tucson, which offers a broader range of hybrid options at similar price points.
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Versatility Across Hybrid Options
Hyundai adopts a more comprehensive strategy with its popular Tucson model, offering gas-only, sport-oriented, and luxury hybrid trims, alongside a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. The Tucson PHEV caters to those seeking maximum electric driving range (33 miles/53 km) for daily commutes while retaining gasoline engine backup for longer journeys.
The Tucson Hybrid N Line model stands out with 19-inch wheels, black side mirrors, and twin-tip exhaust. For 2025, all Tucson models receive refreshed front-end styling with new LED lights and updated wheel designs, maintaining a sharper, more modern aesthetic compared to its more rounded competitors.
Inside, the Tucson N Line features a contemporary dual-screen digital environment, replacing traditional gauges. Red stitching accents the seats, doors, armrest, and steering wheel, complemented by sport pedals and an N-branded steering wheel, emphasizing its sporty character.
Performance is enhanced by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 231 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel (regular fuel compatible). Paddle shifters offer manual control over the six-speed automatic transmission, a contrast to the CVT in the Mazda and Lexus.
While not the most fuel-efficient in its class at 35 mpg combined, the Tucson Hybrid N Line offers a compelling balance of power and efficiency, providing more driving enjoyment and confident acceleration. The powertrain feels more refined than the Mazda and even the Lexus.
Despite its sporty N Line designation, the ride quality remains comfortable, similar to the new 2025 Tucson XRT soft-roading trim. Interestingly, the Hybrid N Line includes “Baby Mode,” softening initial acceleration for passenger comfort.
The Tucson Hybrid also excels in practicality, offering more rear-seat and cargo space than the Mazda and significantly more room than the smaller Lexus. The Tucson Hybrid N Line presents itself as a stylish, family-friendly option with a blend of performance and practicality.
2025 Lexus UX300h: Compact Luxury with a Value Proposition
The updated Lexus UX300h, renamed from UX250h for 2025, is a smaller, luxury-focused hybrid option. Despite its luxury branding and similar pricing to mainstream competitors, the UX300h feels less spacious and surprisingly less refined than the others. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, the UX300h occupies a unique position in the market.
Classified as a compact car by fueleconomy.gov, rather than a small SUV like the others, the UX300h arguably leans more towards a subcompact crossover or hatchback in size. While driver space is comparable, its smaller footprint is evident when parked alongside the Tucson and CX-50. Despite not being direct rivals, their overlapping price points make them comparable for shoppers.
The Lexus UX300h’s smaller dimensions may appeal to those prioritizing urban maneuverability and parking ease. The design, especially in the F Sport trim with unique wheels, grille, black roof, and roof rails, is visually appealing. However, the oversized Lexus grille on the compact body may not suit all tastes.
Interior material quality, design, driver comfort, and infotainment system are strengths of the UX300h, especially for drivers under six feet tall. However, rear passenger and cargo space suffer due to its smaller size, with a mere 17.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity—less than half of the Tucson’s.
The UX300h’s gauges appear dated, although a color head-up display is available, contrasting with the monochrome displays in the others. A larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen is now standard on most trims, modernizing the interior, but numerous physical buttons hint at an older design philosophy, which some may find reassuring.
Drivetrain updates include a shift-by-wire CVT and a larger lithium-ion battery, a first for Lexus hybrids, unlike the nickel-metal hydride batteries in the Mazda and most Toyota hybrids. Power is increased to 196 hp, with AWD models achieving 42 mpg combined, closely matching the FWD model’s 43 mpg. However, the engine noise remains a noticeable drawback, sounding unrefined for a Lexus, possibly more apparent due to the battery’s extended engine-off operation.
The UX300h’s pricing is a key advantage, starting at $37,515 for the front-drive model and $43,035 for the F Sport AWD version. This offers a relatively affordable entry point into a luxury hybrid, though compromises in interior space are evident.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Hybrid Small SUV
Each of these hybrid small SUVs presents distinct advantages and disadvantages. However, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid emerges as a standout choice in this comparison.
The Tucson Hybrid effectively blends practicality and sporty appeal within a modern and stylish design that should age well. Its comprehensive package positions it as a strong contender in the hybrid small SUV segment, offering a compelling alternative as EVs become increasingly prevalent.
*All mileage claims are EPA estimated.
