Driving a new electric car can seem like the right way to reduce your carbon footprint. But we have some good news: a pre-owned vehicle can play an even more significant role in helping you save the planet. It doesn’t matter if you drive a used Prius or any other used hybrid car. When you take advantage of buying already used cars, fewer resources go to waste. Let’s look at some of the best used green vehicles.
2004-2009 Toyota Prius
Average Price: $3,000-$13,000
We love this car’s horsepower as much as its brilliant engineering. The Toyota Prius
packs the latter into an affordable and convenient package.
-Pros
Fantastic gas mileage
Enough spare parts and battery packs
Cheap to buy and cheap to run
-Cons
It’s a great car but still uses gasoline
Not very fun to drive
Lacks modern conveniences
2016-2017 Nissan Leaf EV
Price Range: $7,000-$15,000
The Leaf’s limited range and looks make it a budget-friendly option with hatchback utility and smooth, quiet driving.
-Pros
Good for the environment
Cheap to recharge
An affordable EV entry point
-Cons
Does not have the most impressive design
Short range limits it to commuter duty
Risk of costly battery pack replacement
2011-2016 Chevrolet Volt PHEV
Price Range: $5,000-$16,000
Back in 2011, the Chevrolet Volt was called the car of the year by auto experts. Over a decade on, that’s still true, and it’s a smart buy.
-Pros
Drives like an electric car
Long overall range
Fun to drive
-Cons
Tight rear seating
Not much cargo room
Needs gas engine maintenance
2013-2020 Ford Fusion Energi PHEV
Price Range: $7,000-$30,000+
Ford prioritized its eclectic range and drivability for the Fusion Energi, and we love it!
-Pros
Convenient sedan form factor
Good all-electric range
Fast transition
-Cons
More expensive than the hybrid model
Mileage is mediocre
Not much cargo room
2005-2012 Ford Escape Hybrid
Price Range: $4,000-$13,000+
Millions of miles of fleet duty have proven that the original Escape Hybrid is reliable and efficient.
-Pros
The value factor is high
Excellent powertrain
Reasonably efficient for an early hybrid SUV
-Cons
Low mileage
Not very attractive
Looks like a cab
Cadillac Escalade and GMC Yukon Hybrids
Price Range: $8,000-$25,000
Expensive when new, but can be relatively affordable if you purchase it used.
-Pros
Big
30 percent more fuel savings over non-hybrids
Depreciated pricing compounds
-Cons
Fuel economy can be better
It can be too massive for some
