Looking for a plug-in hybrid that doesn’t break the bank?

Canada has a few options of just such vehicles at prices of less than $50,000, fees and levies included.

What is a plug-in hybrid?

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) works much like a hybrid vehicle, combining an internal combustion engine and electric motors to get its power.

But PHEVs take electrification further as they can be charged at an outlet, and can typically operate on electric power alone for a certain distance. Once the battery is low, the fuel-burning engine kicks in. This allows most plug-in hybrids to be operable on all-electric power by people who drive them short distances. And, if you need to go further, you’ve got the gasoline-burning engine to keep you going and going.

Some consider PHEVs a bridge between vehicles with internal combustion engines and fully electric vehicles.

Below is a list of 2026 model year cars and SUVs with plug-in hybrid powertrains available in Canada for less than $50,000.

Why did we stop at $50,000? The federal government announced it will introduce a rebate of up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of PHEVs with a final transaction value of no more than $50,000 on vehicles made in countries that Canada has a free-trade agreement with. There is no price cap on PHEVs made in Canada.

The starting advertised price includes the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), plus fees and levies. Fees and levies may vary by location. This list is based on Ontario advertised prices. Dealers may set their own prices and automakers may adjust their prices through the year. Check with your local dealer for an exact price.

The list is ordered from most to least expensive.

Kia Sportage PHEV

Starting advertised price: $49,285 (MSRP of $46,395)

The Kia Sportage (pictured up top) is a small SUV that offers buyers plenty of powertrain choices: ICE, hybrid and plug-in hybrid. The PHEV model pairs a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and an electric motor with a total of 268 hp and up to 53 kilometres of all-electric range. The base model features synthetic leather seats, a 12.3-inch centre display with navigation, smart key with push button start and more.

Build yours on the Kia Canada website.

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

Starting advertised price: $43,994 (MSRP of $41,599)

The Ford Escape compact SUV is available with gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The PHEV combines a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for a total of 210 hp and an all-electric driving range of up to 60 kilometres. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, remote start, 13.2-inch centre display and connected navigation (one year included), eight-way heated power driver seat, heated steering wheel and more.

Build yours on the Ford Canada website.

Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid

Starting advertised price: $43,196 (MSRP of $40,150)

The Prius car is available with a regular hybrid powertrain as well as a plug-in hybrid version. The PHEV has a 220-hp powertrain with up to 72 kilometres of electric range. The car includes the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of safety features and a host of features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, standard 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, smart key with push button start and more.

Build yours on the Toyota Canada website.

Kia Niro PHEV

Starting advertised price: $39,585 (MSRP of $36,845)

The Kia Niro is available with three powertrain choices, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric. The PHEV model offers pairs a 1.6-litre engine with an electric motor with a total of 180 hp and up to 55 kilometres of all-electric driving range. Standard features include a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, heated front seats, acoustic laminated glass and more.

Build yours on the Kia Canada website.

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