Electric vehicles are dead. Long live electric vehicles! Well, EVs are not dead, but the big push to full electrification is, thanks to a combination of federal policies and consumer demand. Another type of electric vehicle, hybrids, shows signs of life and consumers are interested. Indeed, manufacturers are leaning into the technology and will offer numerous new models over the next half decade. Let’s look at what new models will grace US showrooms by 2030.
Toyota: Market Leader
Innovator and hybrid leader Toyota continues to set the pace in a segment once ignored or downplayed by some competitors. Ever since launching the Prius a quarter of a century ago, Toyota has gradually spread its hybrid technology across much of its product lines, including Lexus.
Like the Prius, the Toyota Camry midsize sedan is now hybrid only. Beginning in 2026, they are doing the same with the next-generation Toyota RAV4, its most popular model. This compact SUV will offer both standard and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions, a two-prong approach that is almost routine for the manufacturer. Because Toyota builds hybrids in volume, the cost increases are negligible, thus keeping these models competitive. Expect that fuel economy will improve drastically too, with some models approaching 50 mpg.
Other models getting the hybrid treatment include the Toyota Corolla sedan. When the next-generation model debuts in 2027, we expect it to go to hybrid only as well.
Jeep: Not Just 4x4s
Electrification has gradually appeared with the Jeep brand. Most notably, the Wrangler has a 4Xe variant (as does the Grand Cherokee), representing plug-in versions of these popular models. Even so, the take rate on both is small as customers prefer the gas-only models.
For 2026, Jeep reintroduces the Cherokee, a compact model last offered in 2023. The new Cherokee is hybrid only, expected to achieve 37 mpg. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, an electronically controlled variable transmission, and two electric motors motivate this all-wheel-drive only model.
Ram: Extended Range Electrification
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is an all-wheel-drive pickup truck that blends electric drive with gas power. But in this case, the onboard 3.6-liter V6 engine does not motivate the truck. Instead, it generates electricity when the battery runs lows or more is power is needed. In effect, the upcoming Ramcharger (due in 2026) is an extended range electric vehicle.
While its standard 145-mile EV range is not impressive, it does extend to 690 miles when the engine serves as an electric generator. Truly, the Ramcharger is a PHEV, not unlike the Chevrolet Volt which also relied on a gas engine to extend range.
Mazda: Active Player
Slow to the hybrid game, Mazda has gradually become a player. Toyota has a 20-percent stake in the company, thus its influence may have something to do with Mazda’s fresh electrification efforts.
Mazda’s most popular model by far remains the compact CX-5. All new for 2026, it will gain a hybrid option in 2027. This means that the CX-5 Hybrid will become its most efficient model, easily topping 40 mpg. Eventually, Mazda may make the CX-5 hybrid only, following a move popularized by Toyota.
Looking Ahead
Other manufacturers are doubling down on hybrid technology while maintaining a foothold in the all-electric sphere. Hyundai appears best poised to replicate Toyota’s success, with plans to offer hybrids across nearly half its model line. We expect related Kia to do likewise. Ford is also recalibrating its electrification initiatives and will supply expanded hybrid offerings as the decade progresses. A three-row crossover, initially planned as a full electric model will now become a hybrid.
Hybrids, Not Full Electrics
The lack of federal support under the Trump administration is one of the reasons electric vehicles won’t expand quickly in the US. On the flip side, tepid consumer demand along with active pushback, ensures that EVs will remain a novelty, at least for now.
Hybrids are a natural segue to full electrification, but are a solid option alone. With exceptional fuel efficiency and minimal emissions, hybrids may prove the best choice of all types of models moving forward.
References
Miller, Caleb. “Report: Ram Delays Ramcharger PHEV and Electric 1500 REV Once Again.” Car and Driver, 15 May 2025. Link.
Irwin, Austin. “2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Hybrid: What We Know So Far.” Car and Driver, published Feb. 2025. Link.
Autoweek staff. “2026 Jeep Cherokee, as Hybrid-Only, Promises 37 MPG.” Autoweek, 2024. Link.
Valdes-Dapena, Peter. “Toyota Bets Big on Hybrid-Only Models as EV Demand Slows.” Reuters, 15 Aug. 2024. Link.
Reuters Staff. “Stellantis Moves Up Launch of Hybrid Ramcharger as EV Demand Cools.” Reuters, 18 Dec. 2024. Link.
See Also — Are Electric Vehicles Unpopular? 1.2 Million Sold in 2023 Indicates Otherwise.
Photo by Kindel Media:
