With the motoring industry heading towards a fully electric future, now could arguably be the perfect time to make the switch to a hybrid car and take a step in the right direction. Not everyone’s budget or lifestyle will suit a direct jump to a fully electric car, especially if they’re used to petrol/diesel vehicles, and hybrids can be a great stepping stone to bridge the gap.
Hybrids of all types, including self-charging and plug-in, are becoming a popular choice for drivers because they offer a ‘best of both worlds’ approach to eco-friendly motoring. As this technology is rolled out across more and more models, the choice is broader than ever, with the best hybrid cars ranging from city cars to big family SUVs.
Ready to make the switch to a hybrid? Here’s our guide to the very best models.
Best Small Hybrid Cars
These hybrid cars combine the efficiency of hybrid technology with the compact dimensions of small cars and are designed to deliver good fuel economy, reduced emissions, and easy manoeuvrability.
Typically classified as small cars due to their compact size, they are ideal for urban environments where space is at a premium and manoeuvring through tight spaces is essential.
Volkswagen is renowned for producing reliable and practical vehicles, and the Volkswagen Golf Hybrid is no exception. This compact hybrid combines the Golf's classic design with the latest in hybrid technology. There are two types of hybrid Golf - a 204hp plug-in hybrid, and a sportier 245hp Golf GTE plug-in hybrid. Both offer decent electric-only range with 44 miles for the E-Hybrid and 38 miles for the GTE.
As with the Golf, there are two Audi A3 plug-in hybrids. There’s an A3 40 TFSIe, with 204hp and a 40-mile electric range; and a 45 TFSIe with 245hp and a 37-mile range. Both get the same handsome styling on the outside and the same high-quality cabin within. Both are also pretty sharp to drive.
CUPRA has made waves in the automotive world with its sporty and dynamic cars. The CUPRA Leon e-Hybrid is no different, offering a performance-oriented take on the small hybrid segment. The 245hp plug-in hybrid system is quick when you put your foot down and offers a 32-mile electric range.
Best Family Hybrid Cars
Family hybrid cars seamlessly integrate hybrid technology with the spaciousness and versatility required for family life. Classified as family cars, these vehicles prioritize safety, comfort, and ample passenger and cargo space.
The family hybrid car segment caters to those seeking a reliable and eco-friendly transportation solution without compromising on the essential features necessary for family journeys.
The BMW X5 has long been a popular choice for families looking for interior comfort and innovative functionality in a sporty design. BMW is offering a hybrid variant of the X5 that combines the brand's signature performance with hybrid efficiency. The engine is a six-cylinder petrol so it is an excellent choice for families who crave performance and handling, and it will do over 50 miles on electric power too.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate is one of the most spacious wagons you can buy with more than 640 litres cargo space, and even opting for one of the hybrid models doesn’t impact boot space too much, making it a top pick for families seeking a premium hybrid experience. The E-Class is unique in that you can have either a petrol or diesel hybrid. The latter offers not only a good electric range of up to 71 miles, but a genuine 60mpg economy on a longer run, which is impressive by any measurement.
The Kia Niro is a compact SUV that comes in both hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, providing options to suit different needs. The Kia Niro is available with a 139bhp self-charging hybrid engine which gives decent performance around town and can run for short periods on electric power.
Best Luxury Hybrid Cars
In the world of luxury, where design and performance are paramount, hybrid systems can change the driving dynamics by offering fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without compromising power.
Luxury hybrid cars often include state-of-the-art interiors, advanced technology, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Porsche has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in the luxury sports car segment and the Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid continues this tradition. The E-Hybrid can hit 60mph from a standstill in under four seconds, can cruise in electric mode for up to 35 miles officially, and has low CO2 emissions making it an allrounder in the luxury hybrid market.
The Range Rover, renowned for its off-road capability and comfortable interiors, adds an eco-friendly twist to its lineup with the Range Rover PHEV. This plug-in hybrid seamlessly blends luxury with sustainability. The 3.0-litre 6-cylinder petrol engine combined with the 105-kW motor gives an electric range of up to 74 miles. With rapid DC charging you can charge up to 80 percent in under an hour.
The Bentley Flying Spur is the epitome of British luxury and performance, and the Flying Spur Hybrid adds an eco-conscious aspect to this iconic model. For those seeking a more efficient option, the 2.9 litre V6 hybrid engine together with a powerful 100 kW electric motor, can power the car to a top speed of 177 mph – and thanks to the instant torque provided by its electric motor, it can reach 60 mph from a standing start in 4.1 seconds.
Best Self-Charging Hybrid Cars
Self-charging hybrids cleverly harness energy during deceleration and braking to recharge their batteries. This regenerative braking technology, along with the capability to switch seamlessly between the internal combustion engine and electric power, ensures a continuous and self-sustaining power source.
This innovative feature distinguishes self-charging hybrids from other hybrid variants, allowing them to recharge on the go without relying on external power sources.
Kia’s Sorento has been a favourite of large families for a while. This latest generation is the most premium yet, introducing a self-charging hybrid powertrain. The Kia Sorento Hybrid combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 227 horsepower. The Kia Sorento has an electric driving range of up to 35 miles, which means many of your regular trips can be completed without using a single drop of petrol.
The Mazda 2 Hybrid packs a punch when it comes to fuel efficiency and driving dynamics. Mazda has introduced a self-charging hybrid version, making it an enticing option for those who tend to make short journeys and live in the city. The 2 Hybrid is available with a three-cylinder petrol engine that’s helped out by two electric motors. In total, they create 114bhp, in practice, it's actually pretty nippy. You can run on electricity alone for a few miles, boosting efficiency and making for near-silent driving at slower speeds.
The Kia Sportage has long been a popular choice for those seeking an SUV that blends practicality with affordability. The new Kia Sportage hybrid takes this a step further by adding a self-charging hybrid powertrain to the mix. The Sportage Hybrid combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, generating a total of 226 horsepower. You can expect over 43 miles of range when travelling in the all-electric driving mode, covering the school run or a commute to work.
Best Plug-in Hybrid Cars
Unlike traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids are equipped with larger batteries that can be recharged by plugging into an external power source, such as an electric outlet or a charging station.
This dual-power system allows drivers to rely solely on electric power for shorter journeys, reducing emissions and promoting energy efficiency. This adaptability makes plug-in hybrid cars an appealing choice for those seeking the benefits of both electric and gasoline-powered driving, with the added convenience of at-home charging.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is known for its elegance, comfort, and advanced technology. The C-Class PHEV takes these qualities to the next level by offering a fantastic plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor which can squeeze an impressive 67 miles of electric range out of a fully charged battery.
The Range Rover Evoque has always been a symbol of luxury and style in the world of SUVs, and the plug-in hybrid version is no exception. Add a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo engine with a plug-in hybrid system to the compact Evoque, and you get a 38-mile electric range, decent long-run economy, and a smooth driving experience.
The BMW 3 Series has always been a benchmark for sporty driving, and the plug-in hybrid version stays true to that reputation. The BMW 330e combines power from the 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine and its electric motor, with a reasonable electric range of up to 34 miles, and of course, that wonderful driving experience that BMWs are known for.
Still not sure which car’s right for you? Our team are happy to answer any questions you have about these or any other models – either call for a chat or drop into a dealership near you.
We also have a number of used hybrid cars for sale on our website.