Fast Facts | The Hybrid Reset
🔁 Strategy Shift: Automakers are moving away from some PHEVs
🚗 Honda Push: Hybrids expanding across Civic, Accord, and CR-V
🔋 Tech Focus: Next-gen hybrid systems promise major efficiency gains
🧠 Toyota Vision: Hybrids positioned as a long-term bridge to EVs
🛑 EV Delays: Some full EV launches paused or slowed
📈 Market Signal: Hybrids gained market share in 2025
Honda Pivots Away from PHEVs
To start, the big news for plug-in hybrids today is that Stellantis has just dropped all of its American PHEVs including the very popular Jeep Wrangler 4xe as well as the Grand Cherokee 4xe and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid.
The company says they are moving away from plug-in hybrids in favor of standard hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles due to shifting consumer demand. It will focus on hybrids such as the new Cherokee and range-extended vehicles such as the future RAM 1500 REV.
Honda Expands Hybrids
Meanwhile, Honda's hybrid future centers on expanding their hybrid lineup with next-gen tech for better efficiency and performance, integrating hybrids across core models like the Civic, Accord, and CR-V, and introducing new models like the hybrid Prelude and a Trailsport version of the CR-V with all-wheel drive. Honda is also developing advanced V6 hybrid systems for larger vehicles.
The broader context behind this pivot is clear, as hybrid vehicles claimed a bigger share of the U.S. market in 2025 amid slower EV growth ➜
Keep on the lookout for new hybrid models such as the Prelude sports coupe to broaden the company’s portfolio and advanced hybrid systems, including a powerful V6 hybrid for larger vehicles, aiming for significant fuel efficiency gains (over 30 percent better than gas-only equivalents) and improved performance.
Toyota’s New Focus
Hybrid leader Toyota has big plans for hybrids with its recent patents for better handling, safety, and performance including new sporty rear-wheel drive hybrids to improve balance. The automaker is also pushing toward solid-state batteries for improved range and faster charging.
Toyota sees hybrids as a bridge to fully electric vehicles and is targeting mass production of solid-state batteries by 2027. It is fully committed to the future of electrified personal transportation.
Acura Hiccup
Acura recently announced that it will make big changes to its popular RDX compact crossover. The third generation is about to make way for a fourth-generation model that’s a… you guessed it, hybrid. Coming to dealerships in 2028, the new RDX will feature a two-motor hybrid system.
VW Burp
Volkswagen recently announced that it is stalling its ID.Buzz electric minivan. But it is also bringing hybrids back to North America with SUVs such as the Atlas and Tiguan in 2027. VW is also considering a plug-in hybrid version of the Golf GTI.
Like many automakers, the German giant is also looking at extended-range hybrids (E-REVs) for larger vehicles such as the Atlas as a steppingstone toward full electrification.
⚡ The Hybrid Comeback
Hybrid Vehicles Claim Bigger Market Share in 2025
Why hybrids gained momentum as automakers and buyers reassessed EV timelines
Read More ➜
Half of Toyota Sales in 2025 Are Electrified
Toyota’s electrification strategy shows why hybrids remain central to its future
Read More ➜
Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Scout Will Adopt New Electrification Strategies
How major brands are adjusting EV and hybrid plans in response to market realities
Read More ➜
