These hybrids are the best cars for drivers who 'don't care about cars'

• Doug DeMuro has been reviewing cars for over a decade, from mainstream models to supercars.
• DeMuro sat down with finance podcast "The Iced Coffee Hour" and revealed his top picks for best non-enthusiast cars.

Automotive enthusiasts and experts regularly gush about their dream cars and high-performance daily drivers, but what about picks and options for the average American driver who isn't an enthusiast?

Doug DeMuro, automotive YouTuber, author, and entrepreneur recently shared some of his favorite car choices for average drivers on "The Iced Coffee Hour," a finance podcast. Two of Doug's recommendations for best all-around cars for average American drivers are Japanese hybrids.

Doug DeMuro admires the Toyota Prius as a non-enthusiast vehicle

Toyota has plenty of options for driving enthusiasts like the GR86 or GR Supra, but some of its vehicles are specifically designed to be affordable and efficient daily drivers. "It would be so freeing to just have a Prius and like get 55 miles per gallon" said DeMuro to the hosts of "The Iced Coffee Hour." As a car enthusiast and automotive personality, it may not be Doug's first choice, but it's an excellent choice for the average driver who just wants exceptional gas mileage and a reliable vehicle that has great resale value.

The 2026 Toyota Prius starts at just $28,550 and benefits from a recent redesign. The plug-in hybrid version starts at $33,775 and provides even more horsepower and greater fuel efficiency thanks to an electric motor.

Toyota's 2026 Prius produces 194 horsepower. It achieves a whopping 57 mpg combined. Aside from being relatively affordable (for a hybrid) the Prius also has great value retention and is known for its reliability. Edmunds praises its "easy-to-use infotainment system" along with its fuel economy and acceleration.

Thanks to its 2023 redesign, the Prius' exterior is more appealing than previous generations and its cabin is more refined. It's a solid choice for most average drivers who want a vehicle that's affordable to buy, refuel, and maintain.

The Toyota Corolla Hybrid earns Doug DeMuro's praise

In the podcast episode, Doug also mentions the Toyota Corolla Hybrid as a great option for non-enthusiasts. Toyota first began producing the Corolla back in 1966 and it remains an important part of the automakers portfolio. Today, consumers can choose from several Corolla options including a hatchback, gas, and hybrid version. Toyota also offers different trims and drivetrains for the Corolla so drivers can customize it to their liking.

The 2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid starts at $24,575. It produces 138 horsepower. The Corolla Hybrid earns 50 mpg combined. MotorTrend lists the 2026 Corolla's "updated technology" and "exterior styling" as strengths. Furthermore, the Corolla Hybrid is exceptionally reliable and retains its value well over time.

If you're looking for an affordable hybrid that get great gas mileage and has a reputation for longevity, the Corolla Hybrid is a great place to start. It may not turn many heads, but it's built to last and benefits greatly from a hybrid powertrain.

A Tesla SUV earned a mention from Doug DeMuro

If you're willing to drive an EV, another vehicle earned a mention from automotive expert Doug DeMuro, and it's not a Japanese hybrid. DeMuro also recommends the Tesla Model Y, an American fully electric small SUV model, calling it a "really excellent all-around car."

The 2026 Tesla Model Y starts at $37,990 for the Standard trim. This trim produces 295 horsepower and has 321 miles of driving range. Tesla's Model Y small electric SUV is the best-selling EV in America, largely because of its versatility. It's quick, has sufficient range for most drivers, and can easily access the Tesla Supercharger Network for quick charging.