Nearly all used cars are in high demand at dealerships across the country these days, but a sharp uptick in fuel prices is putting more pressure on fuel-efficient vehicles.

Gasoline-electric hybrids typically rise to the top of shopping lists when gas prices get closer to $4 a gallon (or $5 in states named California), and it helps today that there have been numerous hybrid vehicles produced in the last decade or so.

But hybrids also represent a stepping stone to electrification as states and the country apply pressure to boost electric vehicle adoption through the rest of the 2020s. Some drivers, however, might not be ready for a full EV or even a plug-in hybrid, and some may have never owned or driven even a hybrid in the 22 years since the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius first landed in the US. 

Therefore, a used hybrid is a cost-effective way to check a few boxes: they're typically more efficient than gas-only counterparts, they don't need to be charged up at a station or with a home charging unit, and they're less expensive than springing for a new car these days.

Here are some of the best used hybrid cars and SUVs for less than $10,000.

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### 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid

![2013-acura-ilx-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4c4LPsFn6DGH9evFI0izKY/246118c7f1ad6f37a1f76d8edb3c8fc1/2013-acura-ilx-hybrid-ext.jpg)

Acura's first hybrid mostly went unnoticed nearly a decade ago with the release of the ILX Hybrid. Considering this small Acura sedan was heavily based on the ninth-generation Honda Civic (that's two Civic generations ago), the ILX Hybrid shares its mechanicals with that era's Civic Hybrid. While a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and tiny electric motor produced just 111 horsepower, an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined city/highway fuel economy rating makes the performance sacrifice worth it.

![2013-acura-ilx-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4l19v56u2hm6Nl8O2OTOdQ/ffc07371c4814e1704758755cb417dce/2013-acura-ilx-hybrid-int.jpg)

The ILX Hybrid wasn't exactly a hit when it was new and was unceremoniously discontinued in 2015, so there aren't many on the used car market. However, its interior quality and equipment levels are higher than a corresponding Civic Hybrid of the same year, yet it's about the same price. All models have niceties like satellite radio, a moonroof, and alloy wheels, even if Apple CarPlay and Android Auto weren't adopted for several more years. So expect to find examples with around 100,000 miles in the $9,000 to $10,000 range.

[Browse used 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/acura-ilx-15l+hybrid+w+tech#year_min=2013&year_max=2013).

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### 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

![2008-2010-chevrolet-malibu-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/ctiiZuQa2zpxEFOAlEgiR/5ddf87767ff32192a0b9ac79ce40f73c/2008-2010-chevrolet-malibu-hybrid-ext.jpg)

General Motors might be best-known right now for its electric vehicle advocacy after turning out models like the Chevrolet Volt and Bolt over the last 10-or-so years, and now with the imminent arrival of the Cadillac Lyriq and GMC Hummer EV. That partially excuses GM's almost-nonexistent history with hybrids. But they did make a hybrid version of what was once a hugely popular midsize sedan: the Chevy Malibu. Produced for just three model years, the Malibu Hybrid produced 164 horsepower with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, and the 34 mpg highway rating was hardly better than a four-cylinder non-hybrid Malibu. 

![2008-2010-chevrolet-malibu-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4gMi6p2sNLQeJJOw420i7m/a2d7f94f2a756b562b3a3299e8faf73d/2008-2010-chevrolet-malibu-hybrid-int.jpg)

It was made in relatively limited numbers and primarily for government fleets, but it's easy to pick up a Malibu Hybrid today for around $8,000. That money also buys a relatively modern sedan that doesn't look like a 14-year-old car.

[Browse used 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/chevrolet-malibu-hybrid#year_min=2008&year_max=2010).

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### 2005-2011 Ford Escape Hybrid

![2005-2011-ford-escape-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4Kbhzopq084WNXGZIeRhfk/5c9f1bf5f8746a8313386d46e175f2eb/2005-2011-ford-escape-hybrid-ext.jpg)

While Ford showed up fashionably late to the hybrid game, it came with the shape people wanted. The Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid SUV in the US when it arrived in 2005 and quickly became popular as it was more versatile than a Toyota Prius and also offered all-wheel drive. In addition, and unusual at the time, the Escape Hybrid was nearly indistinguishable inside and out from the gas-only counterpart, making it one of the first conventionally shaped hybrids on the market.

![2005-2011-ford-escape-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7DK2BdCsHpQU0OtkN0hzkd/e8a3e039860df27b601795949d66f2a9/2005-2011-ford-escape-hybrid-int.jpg)

With a combined system output of 155 horsepower from its 2.3-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, even the earliest Escape Hybrids were relatively quick for the time, and up to 34 mpg also improved its case. At the same time, the battery pack didn't eat into cargo space in any significant way, important for this type of body style when cargo space is important. The Escape Hybrid received a styling and efficiency update for 2008, so those are the models worth seeking. However, their popularity makes finding one under the $10,000 mark a little more difficult.

[Browse used 2005-2011 Ford Escape Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/ford-escape+hybrid#year_min=2005&year_max=2011).

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### 2010-2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid

![2010-2014-ford-fusion-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2V3yMSdzEhzO1Ocod3w2a8/eca869713895f831909757caea686943/2010-2014-ford-fusion-hybrid-ext.jpg)

Ford made some smart moves adopting hybrid technology relatively early and applying it to some of its most popular cars. For 2010, the midsize Fusion sedan adopted a hybrid powertrain to battle with the Toyota Camry Hybrid and just in time for a recession, the Cash for Clunkers scheme, and a renewed interest in cars that cost less to fill up. It also helped that the Ford Fusion was one of the best midsize sedan efforts from Ford or any domestic automaker in years.

![2010-2014-ford-fusion-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3Z4a9xGpZ5yOiPbipMSrDq/a075addad5dd12d1c840d52611c72608/2010-2014-ford-fusion-hybrid-int.jpg)

There are two Fusion Hybrid generations covered here. The 2010-2012 models use a hybrid system with 156 combined system output and a powertrain similar to the Escape Hybrid. These versions are easier to find with fewer miles, but their in-car tech looks dated, and the interior is small by modern midsize sedan standards. The second-generation Fusion, from 2013 to 2014, is much more spacious and competent to drive, and it also uses a more powerful 185-horsepower powertrain and lithium-ion battery. More of these cars are out there, but mileages tend to be higher for examples below the $10,000 level.

[Browse used 2010-2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/ford-fusion+hybrid#year_min=2010&year_max=2014).

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### 2011-2013 Honda CR-Z

![2011-2013-honda-crz-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4xESEaDGdVZTviw8yYsvEq/46f3abe29ff91cb85f351be65a323e92/2011-2013-honda-crz-ext.jpg)

Honda enthusiasts were excited for the CR-Z when it was first announced in 2010, with its unmistakable wedge shape that harked back to the much-loved CRX of the '80s. That excitement quickly turned into shrugs when people drove the CR-Z, though, as its 121-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder, and the electric motor combination didn't have the power to take advantage of its reasonably sharp handling. And even though a six-speed manual transmission (almost unheard of in a hybrid) was standard, fuel economy was pretty middling at 34 or 36 mpg combined. On the other hand, a similar-era Mini Cooper was nearly as efficient, about the same price, and more fun and practical to live with.

![2011-2013-honda-crz-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6OVYYpHpKzYEAuCGbuDwVp/1e5bc8038786fee163d3c47fdca07d44/2011-2013-honda-crz-int.jpg)

But the CR-Z has plenty of merits now that depreciation has taken full effect, and clean examples can be found for less than $10,000. While a strict two-seater, the Honda's liftback design affords it respectable cargo space for a small car, and build quality is sound, if not plush. Unfortunately, the CR-Z is becoming a more popular commodity as an inexpensive used car, and prices are rising. Get in now before this underdog becomes a modern classic.

[Browse used 2011-2013 Honda CR-Z listings here](https://www.autolist.com/honda-cr+z#year_min=2011&year_max=2013).

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### 2010-2014 Honda Insight

![2010-2014-honda-insight-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6KvP019z7wihHQr2mItap7/408ca1a2612fac027c23a75d85712fc3/2010-2014-honda-insight-ext.jpg)

Honda hasn't had the best luck with hybrids for all of its legacy on emissions and fuel efficiency. While the original, two-seat Insight, launched in late 1999, has the distinction of being the first hybrid sold in the US and was capable of 60 mpg, it didn't have a broad audience. So in its second iteration, the Honda Insight aimed squarely at the popular Toyota Prius. And from most angles, it even looks like a Prius.

![2010-2014-honda-insight-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3kSAO23ZfSLlpQq3RQP6ZK/cf36e7628bd10e7b1dc62baa73fae4fa/2010-2014-honda-insight-int.jpg)

But the second-generation Insight went unloved because it was significantly less fuel-efficient than a Prius, didn't cost much less, and didn't bring anything new to the hybrid category. Honda soldiered on with it for five years, but when the standard Civic or Honda Fit got about 40 mpg like the Insight, with more than a paltry 98 horsepower, and for less money, customers were swayed in other directions. But today, an Insight is far less expensive than a similar age Prius. Moreover, it still offers seating for five (in a pinch) and a practical hatchback design.

[Browse used 2010-2014 Honda Insight listings here](https://www.autolist.com/honda-insight#year_min=2010&year_max=2014).

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### 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

![2011-2014-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3C1ozpZxyOeo9kH1Pd6u6S/cfb62a6395b8d2acc03950bcb6d8a068/2011-2014-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-ext.jpg)

Firmly in mainstream contention with other midsize sedans, the Hyundai Sonata stopped being a fringe player and became one of the cars to beat. Its styling still stands out today and does a convincing interpretation of a much more expensive BMW or Mercedes-Benz. And adding a hybrid powertrain for the first time in 2011 only broadened the appeal of the adventurously styled Hyundai. With 206 horsepower from the 2.4-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, the Sonata Hybrid is hardly a slouch in acceleration, yet was rated to return up to 40 mpg. In another twist, Hyundai used a conventional six-speed automatic transmission rather than a more hybrid-like continuously variable transmission (CVT), giving the Sonata Hybrid characteristics more like the gas-only variants.

![2011-2014-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6xSD5nUv4iQPbV62d8cYB6/505502c025dd070c3be4187f416cc9d7/2011-2014-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-int.jpg)

The Sonata Hybrid sold well, and plenty of them are out there. Earlier models weren't as mechanically robust as the Toyota systems, and some interior pieces didn't hold up as well, either. Still, there's a steady inventory of them, as well as the mechanically similar Kia Optima Hybrid.

[Browse used 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/hyundai-sonata+hybrid#year_min=2011&year_max=2014).

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### 2007-2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid

![2007-2011-nissan-altima-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4dGmV5x2ROy553aTLj5MnN/dd3a6b09d8454a15c3f14083588b70e4/2007-2011-nissan-altima-hybrid-ext.jpg)

Another midsize sedan, Nissan also seemed to skip the hybrid step before jumping into full EVs such as the Leaf hatchback. But with the success of the Prius and Camry Hybrid, Nissan licensed some technology from Toyota to create the Altima Hybrid in 2007. Using Nissan's 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor, along with the company's CVT, the Altima Hybrid produced a total system output of a respectable 198 horsepower — 23 more than the gas-only four-cylinder. The fuel economy wasn't as good as the Camry Hybrid's, at up to 35 mpg, but it was noticeably better than other Altimas.

![2007-2011-nissan-altima-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3Nrt2rlxRZy8GKAd8jdGJE/784f43be4d05fceaeb4fc1170f86dd58/2007-2011-nissan-altima-hybrid-int.jpg)

The Altima Hybrid didn't exactly take off in sales for a few reasons, not the least of which was that it had to do battle with the very popular Camry Hybrid. But new sales were limited to just a few states that comply with California's emissions standards, meaning it had far less distribution than the Camry and Fusion hybrids. Today, though, they've been dispersed around the country and are reasonably accessible for less than $10,000. And regarding its durability, the Altima Hybrid was a popular New York City taxi during its life, so it can take the kind of beating only that city can do to a car.

[Browse used 2007-2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/nissan-altima+hybrid#year_min=2007&year_max=2011).

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### 2008-2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

![2008-2010-toyota-highlander-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3TsGKzHO9mfQDVqrH33F4C/4ffe10a36f07b47d6649ce3c9ad22830/2008-2010-toyota-highlander-hybrid-ext.jpg)

Toyota wasn't far behind Ford in producing a hybrid SUV. In 2005, Toyota introduced the Highlander Hybrid alongside the Lexus RX 400h. Both used versions of the Prius' Hybrid Synergy Drive but mated to a larger V6 engine and optional all-wheel drive. The second-generation Highlander Hybrid, introduced in 2008, kept the same basic system but matched it to a larger vehicle that offered more room for seven passengers. Consider this the first family-sized hybrid, which meant that efficiency and space weren't mutually exclusive. And it's more practical than the somewhat unloved Toyota Prius V wagon of a decade ago. Many versions are also equipped with leather seats, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, adaptive cruise control, and a backup camera — relative rarities in hybrids of the time.

![2008-2010-toyota-highlander-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4ZdNdqAi5gHZ8YpKh7ruA5/c8671e19a7278d37c6c7db81ad9c2986/2008-2010-toyota-highlander-hybrid-int.jpg)

Highlander Hybrids of this generation aren't cheap, and their reputation for longevity means many have higher mileages. But then that's not a bad thing as Toyota's hybrid powertrains were already proven reliable by this point and, like the Altima Hybrid, the Highlander Hybrid was a successful NYC taxi. While Toyota finally offers a hybrid minivan with the current Sienna, those can approach $50,000 without much trouble. So for those who need a lot of space in a hybrid, and for far less money than a new three-row crossover SUV, consider the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

[Browse used 2008-2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid listings here](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-highlander+hybrid#year_min=2008&year_max=2010).

Buying a gas-sipping used car doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune. In fact, there are many used hybrid cars with the best fuel economy on the market for under $10,000. We rounded up the best ones to consider for 2022 and beyond. 

These Are The Best Used Hybrid Cars Under $10k in 2022

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