Because of the growing cost of gasoline and higher pollution laws, automakers are switching to hybrid and completely electric vehicles. Hybrid versions of iconic cars like the Mustang and Corvette are currently testing at Ford and Chevrolet, while Porsche is developing a mixed 911, and Toyota is hard at work revamping the Prius that started it all. For the avoidance of doubt, when we refer to a "hybrid," we have in mind the more common gasoline-electric variety, in which the vehicle's engine and the kinetic energy it recovers when coasting and braking charge its batteries. As our technology advances, so do the specs and performance of newly introduced hybrid models, which are now among the most exciting in the industry. We thought we'd give you a sneak peek at 6 of the most exciting upcoming hybrid cars.

1 - Mercedes-AMG C63

In 2023, Mercedes will bring back the C63, the high-performance version of their C-class entry-luxury sedan, but with a new powertrain. Formerly powered by a gorgeous 4.0-liter V-8 twin turbo, the next-generation C63 will have a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain producing roughly 500 horsepower. Despite significant changes to the engine's personality, it promises to maintain most of the previous C63's excellent performance. Mercedes-AMG has also announced the reintroduction of the C43, their entry-level sports car. The Mercedes-AMG C63 is scheduled to come back in the 2023 model year.

2 - Lexus UX

The car is beautifully made with Washi decoration, which evokes the smooth texture of Japanese paper, and combines classical Japanese design with ultra-modern opulence. Front seats with optional heated and ventilated trim raise the interior design even further. Its internal technology isn't just top-notch; it comes naturally. With the 12.3-inch, high-resolution multimedia display from Lexus Interface, the largest in its class, you may customize your heavenly multimedia experience. The UX Hybrid's Lexus Safety System is among the most complete safety systems ever installed. It assists in specific situations, such as low-light pedestrian detection, daytime bicycle detection, and providing road sign information via an integrated camera. The upcoming Lexus UX in 2023 will only be offered in hybrid trims, replacing the non-hybrid UX 200 with the more effective UX 250h in various trim levels.

3 - BMW M5

The BMW M5 is both a beast and an exciting vehicle to drive, unlike other cars. It has a body based on the standard 5-series and a heart-and-lung transplant provided by the company's M performance division. All four wheels are driven by an impressive 600-hp twin-turbo V-8 housed under the hood and connected to an eight-speed automated transmission. The M5 is a luxury vehicle that can manage mountain hairpins, autobahn blasts, and daily living. BMW no longer sells the M5 Competition as a stand-alone model but as a package upgrade. When set to Comfort mode, the vehicle travels while maintaining an almost eerie level of interior silence. Many people never thought the M5 would turn into a hybrid, and yet, here we are. 

4 - BMW XM

The BMW XM, a two-row crossover designed for athletic purposes and tuned by the illustrious M division, will head the company's next SUV portfolio. XM's exterior is very aggressive, with a kidney-shaped grille with large apertures, stacked exhaust pipes, and a slightly sloping roof that suggests a fastback profile. Under the hood is a 644-hp plug-in hybrid engine that draws its brawn from a twin-turbocharged V-8. About 30 kilometers of electric-only driving should be doable with a completely charged battery. It is expected to enter mass production by the end of 2022 and hit dealer lots by the beginning of 2023.

5 - Toyota Prius

Regarding hybrid vehicles, it was Toyota's Prius that got people excited. Although Toyota has made great strides in efficiency with the Prius over the years, the car remains just as slow and uninteresting as it was first introduced. To compete with other sportier hybrids on the market, Toyota is reportedly developing a new Prius that will inject fresh life into the car and increase performance.

6 - Porsche 911 Hybrid

The hybrid 911 will join the Cayenne, Panamera, and hybrid Macan already in production by Porsche. According to Porsche, the 911 Hybrid's primary focus will be performance. The Porsche 911 Hybrid will likely provide a pure electric driving option for quick jaunts around town. When it comes to powertrains, the "regular" 911 remains true to its heritage with a pair of twin-turbo flat-six engines capable of producing up to 473 hp.