The automotive world is quickly changing, and so have hybrid trucks. We once considered these trucks weird and aggressive, but now, they have improved to offer incredible performance and efficiency. If you’re worried about spending too much on gasoline or want an impressive hybrid truck, there are different top options.
Let’s take a closer look at the best hybrid trucks.
1. 2022 Ford Maverick
The 2022 Ford Maverick is a compact-sized hybrid truck with impressive performance. “2022 Ford Maverick XLT AWD, Front Right, 10-10-2021” by Elise240SX / CC BY-SA 4.0
At the top of our list is the 2022 Ford Maverick, which impresses drivers with its fuel efficiency. It’s the ideal choice for drivers who want the usefulness of an open truck bed without dealing with a bulky truck.
| MSRP | $19,995 |
| Powertrain | 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid |
| Power | 191 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds |
| Torque | 155 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 42 mpg/33 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 1564 pounds |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Available Trims | XL, XLT, Lariat |
Ford went for a hybrid engine with the 2022 Maverick, with a 3.5-liter four-cylinder assisted with an electric motor. The car also comes with a front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The Maverick offers a spacious interior, with four full-sized doors and a roomy backseat. There are multiple storage bins and cubbies in the cabin, with comfortable seats and adjustable lumbar support. It is fitted with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with many driver-assistance and safety features.
What We Liked:
- Modern design
- Robust hybrid engine power
- Impressive fuel economy
- Great payload capacity
- Spacious interior
What We Didn’t Like:
- Towing capacity is pretty basic
- Base model has little to offer
2. 2022 Toyota Tundra
The 2022 Toyota Tundra Limited features a hybrid powertrain option, along with the Platinum and 1794 Edition models. “2022 Toyota Tundra Limited in Celestial Silver Metallic, Front Left, 12-25-2021” by Elise240SX / CC BY-SA 4.0
If you’re looking for the best hybrid truck with towing power, the 2022 Toyota Tundra is ideal. The hybrid truck features a bold exterior style and modern mechanicals that deliver impressive performance. It is also equipped with modern tech features.
| MSRP | $35,950 |
| Powertrain | Twin-turbo V-6 |
| Power | 348-389hp |
| Towing Capacity | 12,000 pounds |
| Torque | 405-479 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 20 mpg/24 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 1940 pounds |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic transmission |
| Available Trims | Platinum, 1794 Edition, TRD Pro, Capstone |
The 2022 Toyota Tundra appeals to those who want refined engine power and a high towing capacity. A twin-turbo V6 powers the hybrid truck with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The horsepower and torque depend on the trim you choose.
With the hybrid model, drivers can enjoy impressive fuel economy and efficiency. The interior design is a huge step up from previous generations, and you can get better quality and cargo bed lengths with higher trims. The Tundra comes with a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen with standard safety and driver assistance features.
What We Liked:
- Refined powertrain and suspension
- Attractie interior design
- Longer cargo bed
- Impressive infotainment system
- Base trim is pretty decent
What We Didn’t Like:
- Annoying controls for tuning the radio
- Not as innovative as its rivals
3. 2022 Ford F-150 Powerboost
The Ford F150 comes with a standard engine and a Powerboost for the hybrid version.
When Ford released the 2022 F-150, they included a hybrid option, which moved them forward in the hybrid truck market. The F-150 is easy to customize, with seven trims, two bed lengths, and three body styles.
| MSRP | $47,640 |
| Powertrain | 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 |
| Power | 430hp |
| Towing Capacity | 12,270 pounds |
| Torque | 570 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 25 mpg/26 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 2,120 pounds |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic transmission |
| Available Trims | XL, XLT, Lariat, Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited |
When Ford moved the F-150 to the first hybrid engine, car enthusiasts positively accepted it. The hybrid is the most powerful engine in the F-150 lineup, with an impressive 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque. It also offers exceptional fuel efficiency, with 24 mpg combined.
The Ford F-150 works excellent for everyday driving and offers impressive towing and payload capacity. It features a premium interior design, with different storage cubbies and convenience features that can be used to transform the car into a mobile workspace. The infotainment system is an 8.0-inch display as standard, with different modern features.
What We Liked:
- Upscale interior design
- Powerful hybrid engine
- Well-rounded available trims
- Car can work as a mobile workspace
- Modern infotainment features
What We Didn’t Like:
- Hybrid car is pretty expensive
- Ride feels stiff on the road
4. 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid Pickup Truck
The GMC Sierra 1500 gained popularity among car enthusiasts because it’s the first from this brand since 2005. The dual hybrid feature is the highlight, which allows the electric motor and gas engine to work simultaneously or independently.
| MSRP | $35,645 |
| Powertrain | V8 cylinder engine |
| Power | 332 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 13,200 |
| Torque | 367 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 18 mpg / 21 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 2,240 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Available Trims | Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, Denali, AT4X, Denali Ultimate |
The vehicle is powered by a 6-liter V8 hybrid engine, with an impressive automatic transmission that offers great mileage. It has two electric motors placed below the rear seat, showing good balance without taking up space in the car.
The maximum speed of this hybrid truck is 30 mph, and it features the fuel efficiency that every other hybrid truck boasts of. The vehicle’s interior was designed with the driver in mind, with easy to reach controls and upscale quality as you move higher on the trims.
What We Liked:
- Cutting-edge tech features in the infotainment system
- Impressive fuel efficiency
- Upscale and comfortable interior
- Electric motors are space-saving
What We Didn’t Like:
- Unrefined riding
- Costs more than similar cars
5. 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid Truck
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 features impressive performance and fuel economy, standing out with its unique electric motor.
The 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 hybrid truck features a unique electric motor that allows the driver to switch from gas to electricity and vice versa. This makes it stand out from other trucks with starters and alternators.
| MSRP | $34,845 |
| Powertrain | 2.7-6.2 liter turbo engine |
| Power | 295 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 13,300 |
| Torque | 348 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 20 mpg/23 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 2280 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic transmission |
| Available Trims | Work Truck, Custom, LT, Trail Boss, RST, LTZ, High Country |
The vehicle features impressive fuel economy, and you can choose different engines, including 2.7-liter, 3.0-liter, 4.3-liter, and 6.2-liter. It can go as far as 36,000 miles, with an automatic emergency braking system and front braking for pedestrians.
The 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 can be configured differently, and drivers can choose how much functionality they want on the different trim levels. The base trim offers all the essentials, while higher trims have luxurious features that improve your driving experience.
What We Liked:
- Solid handling even as a pickup truck
- Impressive interior quality
- Advanced infotainment tech features
- Diverse selection of engines
- Fully-equipped base trim
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fuel efficiency is not impressive
- Does not offer top ride quality
6. 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is known for its sleek design that turns heads whenever you drive across the street. “2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz 2.5T Limited (United States) front view (cropped)” by Zeometric / CC BY-SA 2.0
Another one of the best hybrid trucks on our list is the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, which offers a distinct look that anyone can spot from afar. The vehicle stands out with four unique trims with a fantastic design and features that contribute to the hybrid experience.
| MSRP | $25,735 |
| Powertrain | 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Power | 281 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 5000 pounds |
| Torque | 311 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 21 mpg/27 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 1,753 pounds |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Available Trims | SE, SEL, SEL Premium, Limited |
The 2022 Santa Cruz offers two powertrain options, but the upgraded engine provides more power and fuel efficiency. It is fitted with all-wheel drive on the four-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. Since Santa Cruz is shorter and lower, it is easier to maneuver than most hybrid trucks.
The exterior is not the only well-designed part of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. It features an attractive cabin with modern features and a fully digital gauge cluster. The vehicle is available with a four-door cabin and a standard 8.0-inch infotainment system. It is also compatible with the Hyundai Blue Link.
What We Liked:
- Versatile cargo bed
- High-quality interior
- Attractive look that sets it apart
- Easy to maneuver with compact size
- Composed handling
What We Didn’t Like:
- No physical switchgear
- Underpowered engine
7. 2019 RAM 1500 Hybrid
The 2019 RAM 1500 Hybrid is the next on our list and is widely known as a best-seller among other top hybrid trucks. This is because of its eTorque hybrid technology found in the V6 engine, causing massive sales in the USA and other countries.
| MSRP | $33,390 |
| Powertrain | 3.6-liter hybrid |
| Power | 390 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 6,280 |
| Torque | 410 pound-feet |
| Fuel Economy | 19 mpg /24 mpg for city and highway |
| Payload Capacity | 2,300 pounds |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Available Trims | Tradesman, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, Limited |
The RAM 1500 hybrid is a competent and environmentally friendly vehicle with a system that turns the engine and cylinders off when they idle. This reduces the engine noise and preserves your fuel. It also comes with advanced features like collision warning, pedestrian braking, active braking, etc.
The RAM truck is also highly competent, with a belt-controlled motor-generator rather than the standard engine alternator found in classic pickup trucks. The interior offers an upscale design and ample space with different cargo bed options.
What We Liked:
- Great tech features for modern car
- Environmentally friendly design
- Reduces engine noise
- Fuel efficient
- Advanced safety and driver-assistance features
What We Didn’t Like:
- Transmission is not smooth
- Truck bed is not well-designed
Learn more about the 1500 Hybrid below.
What is a Hybrid Truck?
A hybrid truck is usually a pickup truck with an electric motor and an internal combustion engine powered by gas. This offers all the power you get from a standard engine, whether driving at high speed or towing heavy loads. At the same time, the electric motor provides better fuel efficiency than a standard truck.
Unlike regular electric vehicles, hybrid pickup trucks are not plugged into a charging station. Instead, they use regenerative braking, which takes the energy lost when braking and uses it to recharge the battery. On the other hand, fully electric trucks need to be plugged in and charged.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Hybrid Truck
Think carefully before choosing a hybrid truck, as there are a wide range available in the market.
Before purchasing a hybrid truck, you should consider specific factors and make the right choice. The features you look out for in the best hybrid trucks are not very different from what you’d consider when buying a standard truck.
Fuel Economy
One of the main reasons car enthusiasts go for the best hybrid truck is fuel economy, which is added by the electric motor. You can save up to thousands of dollars on your annual fuel cost with a hybrid truck, although this depends on your payload and speed. Regardless of how your car accelerates, you won’t spend as much as a conventional truck.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Another thing you should keep in mind when choosing top hybrid trucks is their payload and towing capacity. You can get a towing capacity as high as 14,000 pounds depending on the trim and engine you use, but there is usually very little difference between the hybrid and standard versions.
Affordability
Hybrid trucks are more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts, but their costs are cheaper than fully electric trucks. Before choosing a hybrid truck, you should consider the price of the different trims and whether it fits into your budget.
Availability
On the good side, hybrid trucks are much easier to find than fully electric trucks, as the latter is more popular than you’d expect. You should ask your favorite dealer if they have any hybrid trucks, whether you’ll need to put your name down for a reservation or buy immediately.
Dimensions and Space
No one wants to have a powerful truck only to feel tight when sitting in it. Thus, you should ensure you’re purchasing a spacious truck, from the front and rear spaces to the cargo bed. You can quickly check the dimensions of a car online or get a feel when assessing it at the dealership.
Tech Features
Nowadays, modern cars come fully equipped with many modern tech features, and the best hybrid trucks are no different. Hybrid pickup trucks usually come with top-notch features and systems that set them apart from the standard trucks, whether the infotainment system or the safety features.
Pros and Cons of Hybrid Trucks
Before buying a new hybrid pickup truck, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore them below.
Pros of Hybrid Trucks
- Lightweight designs that are easy to maneuver.
- Reduces your reliance on gas and saves costs.
- Friendly to the environment.
- Impressive power and fuel economy.
- High resale value.
Cons of Hybrid Trucks
- Expensive.
- Gasoline engines are usually small.
- Batteries pose the problem of electrocution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a small hybrid pickup truck?
Yes, there is. If you’d prefer a small hybrid truck, you can go for the Ford Maverick. It features a compact design with a hybrid engine and CVT, offering impressive acceleration and towing capacity despite the small size.
Is a hybrid truck worth it?
Yes, it is. Compared to gas-powered trucks, the best hybrid trucks will reduce your carbon footprint and give you better performance.
Does Toyota have hybrid trucks?
Yes, Toyota has the 2022 Tundra, Prius hybrid, and the advanced A-BAT, an advanced aero truck with hybrid technology.
How much is the Ford F150 hybrid?
The Ford F150 Hybrid is worth up to $80,000, although it can be lower or higher depending on the trim you buy and the features you add to the truck.
Conclusion
The car market continues to expand with a wide range of unique cars, and hybrid trucks are just one of the top choices. The best hybrid trucks provide innovative features and efficiency that appeal to any driver. Although they’re a bit pricier than you’re used to, many will say that the price is worth it.
Jim Wicks is the founder of MotorVehicleHQ. With over two decades of experience in the automotive industry and a degree in Automotive Technology, Jim is a certified car expert who has worked in various roles ranging from a mechanic, car dealership manager, to a racing car driver. He has owned more than 20 cars over the past 15 years. Ask him about any vehicle you see on the road and he can tell you the make, model and year. He loves the aesthetics of all things cars, and keeps his vehicles in pristine condition.
In his free time, Jim enjoys getting his hands dirty under the hood of a classic car or taking long drives along the country roads. His favorite car? A 1967 Shelby GT500, a true classic that, according to Jim, “represents the pure essence of American muscle.”