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    Roomiest and Comfiest Compact Hybrid Cars

    These sedans and hatchbacks sip fuel and can fit as much stuff as some SUVs

    Interior of 2024 Toyota Prius
    Toyota Prius
    Photo: Toyota

    Don’t get fooled into believing you need a gas-guzzler because you carry a lot of stuff. Nor is it true that fuel-efficient cars are uncomfortable for passengers. Unlike early hybrids with battery packs that could cut into interior space, today’s hybrids force few compromises on room. In fact, there are some compact hybrids that can comfortably fit as much luggage as some compact SUVs, all while boasting an inviting driver’s seat and plenty of rear legroom.

    How do we know? Well, we buy every car we test and then spend weeks putting each through a comprehensive series of evaluations. We measure fuel economy ourselves, see how much luggage will fit in the trunk, and have testers of several shapes, sizes, and ages evaluate how comfortable the front and back seats are, along with how easy it is to get in and out of the vehicle.

    MORE ON HYBRIDS

    The list below is compiled from the data we collected on all the hybrid vehicles we’ve tested. We tallied up how well they performed in our fuel economy, access, cargo, and comfort tests. Then we calculated the best of the best to find out which vehicles excel in these measurements. Some of them get twice as many miles per gallon as conventional models. They’re all recommended, too, which means you won’t find any cars with poor reliability.

    All of these models have our Green Choice designation, which highlights the vehicles with the cleanest emissions.

    Each model comes standard with automatic emergency braking (AEB), AEB that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) unless noted otherwise.

    If you’re a CR member, this article and the list below are already available to you. But if you haven’t signed up, click below and become a member to access the list and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. Members can read our highly detailed road tests, which expand on the summaries included here. Joining also gives you full access to exclusive ratings for the other products our experts evaluate in several categories, including electronics and home appliances.

    Sign up for CR’s Cars email newsletter to be notified when we post our latest road tests.

    Become a member to read the full article and get access to digital ratings.

    We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.


    Keith Barry

    Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.