With the rising cost of gasoline, the appeal of fuel-efficient vehicles is stronger than ever, especially for truck owners. Hybrid pickup trucks offer a compelling solution by combining gasoline engines with electric motors to enhance fuel economy without sacrificing power and capability. This review examines the top hybrid truck options available in 2022, helping you choose the best one for your needs.
Ford F-150 PowerBoost: The Powerful and Efficient All-Rounder
The Ford F-150 PowerBoost marks Ford’s entry into the hybrid truck market, and it does so impressively. This hybrid powertrain delivers 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, outperforming any non-hybrid F-150 engine except the Raptor. Beyond power, the PowerBoost excels in fuel efficiency, offering a 3-5 mpg improvement over comparable non-hybrid models. It also maintains robust towing capabilities, exceeding 12,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for most truck owners’ needs.
A standout feature of the PowerBoost is Pro Power Onboard, an integrated electric generator. This feature provides substantial portable power, capable of running power tools and even larger appliances, enhancing the truck’s utility for work and recreation. The PowerBoost engine is available across all F-150 SuperCrew cab trims. While it adds a significant cost, up to $4,495, the enhanced efficiency and performance justify the investment for many buyers. Real-world fuel economy may vary from EPA estimates depending on driving habits, but the F-150 PowerBoost remains a top-rated full-size truck, highly praised by Edmunds.
Starting price: $45,210
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 23-25 mpg combined
Toyota Tundra Hybrid: Powerful Performance with a Modern Touch
Toyota’s redesigned 2022 Tundra introduced the i-Force Max hybrid engine, bringing modern technology to this established truck. The Tundra Hybrid is the most powerful on this list, boasting 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. However, its fuel efficiency is slightly less than the Ford F-150 PowerBoost, offering only a 1-2 mpg improvement over the standard Tundra engine.
The hybrid powertrain is limited to the higher Limited trim and above, and requires the CrewMax cab, making it a more premium and costly option. Similar to the F-150 hybrid, the Tundra Hybrid offers a strong towing capacity of over 11,000 pounds. Standard features include a large 14-inch touchscreen and heated and ventilated leather seats in both front and rear, adding to the truck’s luxurious feel. The Toyota Tundra Hybrid is a well-rounded truck with much to offer, though it doesn’t necessarily lead in any single truck category such as towing, comfort, or efficiency.
Starting price: $54,695
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 20-22 mpg combined
Ram 1500 eTorque: Mild Hybrid Smoothness and Efficiency
The Ram 1500 eTorque system stands out as a mild hybrid, offered with both V6 and V8 engines across all trim levels. Unlike full hybrids, eTorque doesn’t increase peak power output, but it provides supplemental power bursts when needed and refines the engine’s stop-start operation for smoother performance. Crucially, it enhances fuel efficiency by 2-3 mpg compared to non-hybrid Ram 1500 gasoline engines.
Notably, the eTorque system is included at no extra cost on the V8 and is standard with the V6, making it an accessible upgrade. The Ram 1500 is highly rated, second only to the F-150 in the full-size truck segment by Edmunds, praised for its exceptional comfort and the smooth operation of its mild hybrid powertrain.
Starting price: $38,295 (V6); $41,090 (V8)
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 21-22 mpg combined (V6); 19-20 mpg combined (V8)
Ford Maverick: The Compact and Exceptionally Fuel-Efficient Option
The Ford Maverick is a brand-new compact truck that comes standard with a 191-horsepower hybrid powertrain. It is the most fuel-efficient truck on the market, matching the mpg of a small hybrid SUV. The hybrid Maverick is front-wheel-drive only, which might be a limitation for those needing all-wheel drive for off-roading or driving in snowy conditions.
However, the Maverick’s affordability is a major advantage. Its starting price is comparable to a compact car, making it the most budget-friendly truck available. Despite its size, it offers towing capacity comparable to a small SUV and a 1,500-pound payload capacity. While the Maverick hybrid prioritizes practicality and fuel economy over outright truck capabilities, it offers significant value for buyers seeking efficiency and affordability in a truck format.
Starting price: $22,490
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 37 mpg combined
Edmunds’ Verdict: Hybrid Trucks Offer Real Benefits
Hybrid pickup trucks present a valuable combination of enhanced power and improved fuel efficiency. While they often come at a higher initial cost, the advantages they offer, especially in fuel savings and sometimes performance, make them a worthwhile consideration for truck buyers looking to optimize their vehicle’s capabilities and running costs.
