12 Great Plug-in Hybrid and Electric Vehicles For Families in 2021

By Darya Oreizi, adapted by Zack Hurst
Originally published January 4th, 2021 on ChargedFuture.com, adapted (and slightly updated) with permission.

Today, there are many, many different types of electric vehicles (EVs). Some are all-electric (BEV), while some are plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Some are sedans, while others are SUVs. 

Furthermore, each and every year there are more and more models. For example, in just 2021, there are over 14 new EVs. The most anticipated new models include the Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, and VW ID.4.

No matter what type of car shopper you are, there is an EV for you. This is especially true for family haulers. For families, a vehicle needs to have ample passenger and cargo space, plenty of range for long road trips, and affordably priced.

As such, car manufacturers have released their take on the ultimate family PHEV or BEV. Each one provides a different value with a focus on pricing, vehicle size, or performance.   
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Here are 12 great plug-in hybrid and electric cars for families:

1. Toyota RAV4 Prime

Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

With a starting price of ​$38,100 ($30,600 after tax credit), Toyota's RAV4 Prime is a great PHEV crossover for the masses. It's 42 mile all electric range is certainly enough for the daily commute and errands and when you need more, the gas engine is there to boost the total range to 600 miles before needing to fill up and recharge. An AWD powertrain will keep you driving in the winter months without worry. Seating capacity for 5 doesn't take away from the 40 ft³ of cargo space. All around the RAV4 Prime is a great option.

2. Tesla Model Y

Tesla Model Y | Tesla

Tesla's Model Y is the newest offering from the electric vehicle startup. Starting at a very competitive price of $49,990, this crossover has already proven it's worth becoming their second best selling vehicle. The standard range, single motor RWD option is rated at 244 miles of range and the long range, dual motor AWD option at 326 miles. If you swing for the performance trim level you will take a small hit in range, but likely enjoy the added power. This full battery electric vehicle does have a 7 seat option, but don't plan on asking your 6ft tall friends to ride in the back. A massive amount of cargo room makes this pick a great choice for road trips  and traveling.

3. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

If you're shopping for an electric minivan, this is currently your only option. But its a great one! The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is one of our favorite choices from this list for families that need a lot of space, but don't want to spend a lot of money. For $40,245 ($34,240 after tax credit), this van can haul your people or your packages up to 520 miles (rated at 32 miles on electric, but we know owners who have gotten more.) 

4. Tesla Model X

Tesla Model X | Telsa

Falcon wing doors, games, Autopilot, and more! The Tesla Model X seems to have it all, except for a lower price tag. This rolling faberge egg will set you back $84,690. Still, the long range trim will provide 360 miles of range, fast supercharging, and seating for as many as 7 adults comfortably, making it our pick for top road trip cruiser.

5. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV | Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV is a hidden gem in the EV world. With less than 10,000 units sold in the US you won't be likely to bump into another owner. That being said, we have no idea why this crossover doesn't sell more. It's 22 miles (rated) of electric range are great for the day to day needs of most people and it's AWD drivetrain has proven up to be up to the task of handling traction in even the worst conditions. If there were an unsung hero award, it would go to the Outlander PHEV for sure.

6. Volvo XC 90 Recharge

Volvo XC90 Recharge | Volvo

The XC90 Recharge from Volvo earns its SUV badge appropriately. It's sporty, it's useful, its a vehicle... well that last part is obvious. If you're in the market for a moderately priced SUV with 520 total miles of range, this 7 seater could be the right one for you! 

7. Volvo XC60 Recharge

Volvo XC60 Recharge | Volvo

The Volvo XC60 Recharge is the XC90's smaller sibling. Starting at $53,500, this PHEV crossover can take you up to 19 (rated) miles on electricity alone. Sure, that's not as far as some of the other PHEVs on this list, but this one is a Volvo, and the others can't say that. Expect all the luxury that this premium brand brings to the table, and throw in a little bit of EV to boot!

8. VW ID. 4

VW ID.4 | Volkswagen

While deleveries of the Volkswagen ID.4 haven't started in the US as of writing this, this crossover is likely to be a massive seller for the German brand. Starting at less than $40,000 and offering a range of 250 miles will appeal to a large number of buyers. Will the ID. 4 be the perfect family vehicle for you? 

9. Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford Mustang Mach-E | Ford

While controversial for being a 4-door crossover, the Mustang Mach-E, is a Mustang through and through. One drive is all it takes and skeptics become believers. Staring at $42,895, the Mach-E is a great option for a sporty flavor on your commute. Offered in RWD and AWD trim options, there's a Mach-E for everybody. Don't discount this awesome option from Ford.

10. Rivian R1S

Rivian R1S | Rivian

Backed by money from Ford, Amazon, and a host of other investors, Rivian has had the capital to bring amazing vehicles to reality. The R1S is no exception. With more than 300 miles and an AWD drivetrain to take you off the beaten path on any adventure you wish. Seating up to 7 means you can take your friends along as well!

11. Rivian R1T

Rivian R1T | Rivian

The R1T is just as exciting as the R1S for those who wish to haul things rather than people. Still centered around the "adventure lifestyle" the R1T has optional extras to make camping in the wilderness an EV reality.

12. Tesla Cybertruck

Tesla Cybertruck | Tesla

There isn't much to be said about the Cybertruck that hasn't been said already. It's futuristic styling is definitely an acquired taste. However, the function of the truck is undeniable. This is a heavy duty vehicle for a family that doesn't mind standing out from the crowd.

There are many different plug-in hybrid and electric cars for families. Each of these family electric vehicles has its own advantages and disadvantages.
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For small families, crossovers like the ID.4, Tesla Model Y, or Toyota RAV4 Prime are great since they balance value with price. For larger families, the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, or Volvo XC-90 Recharge are great for the additional seating and cargo space.
 
In any case, any of these plug-in hybrids or all-electric vehicles will definitely save you money as each are significantly more efficient than a typical internal combustion engine (ICE) or gas car. 

For most ICE family haulers, the MPG lands around 25. However, with crossover and SUV PHEVs and BEVs, the MPGe is around 100. In other words, electric cars are four times as efficient as gas! This is one of a few ways going electric can save owners thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the vehicle. 

If you are interested in making the switch to electric but aren’t sure which one is right for you, feel free to schedule a free consultation. We’ll go over your options and can help you find the most suited EV for your lifestyle. Through our services, we will also go over EV basics such as maintenance, incentives, and charging. 
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