Hybrid car
2 minutes

Whether you’re looking at new or used cars, a hybrid is arguably the perfect stepping stone to an electric vehicle. Besides, for those who can’t charge at home or would rather avoid the flaky UK charging network, a non-plug-in hybrid gives you a handy electrified efficiency boost without the need to top up from the mains.
If you’re unfamiliar, there are three basic types of hybrid. A mild hybrid allows a regular car’s engine to be switched off for longer, including when coasting for instance, but won’t run on electricity alone. That’s why we’re focusing on full hybrids – cars that can run on electricity for short periods but don’t need to be charged – and plug-in hybrids, cars that can also be topped up from the mains for a much longer zero-emissions running. These are particularly good for company car users on account of their low BIK rates.
Keep reading for ten of the best hybrids out there.

Skoda Octavia iV

If you’re after spacious, comfortable family transportation that’s also capable of well over 100mpg, the plug-in Octavia iV is hard to beat. With an official electric range of 40 miles, you might even go weeks without the engine firing once.

BMW 330e

There’s a good reason you see so many examples of the 330e on the road. A classy interior, punchy acceleration and excellent handling make it a tempting choice if one that isn’t as practical or efficient as the Octavia

Honda Jazz

You don’t have to spend loads to get an efficient hybrid. The little Honda Jazz is capable of well over 50mpg and is shockingly practical for its size. As an alternative to the Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsa, it’s well worth a look.

Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Toyota is one of the pioneers of the hybrid movement, and the Corolla is one of its best offerings. It’s comfortable, capable of over 50mpg and is available in hatchback or estate form. We’d stick to the 1.8-litre as it’s fast enough and has a bigger boot than the pokier 2.0-litre.

Kia Sorento

With full and plug-in hybrid versions offered, this large SUV combines surprisingly good economy with decent performance. Its party trick is that it’s a seven-seater, unlike hybrid versions of a number of rivals.

Toyota Yaris Cross

Combining the Yaris Hybrid’s astonishing efficiency with a bigger, trendier and more practical body, the Yaris Cross is quite a combination. The interior is a little drab, but the 10-year warranty more than makes up for it.

Lexus NX

Available in full or plug-in hybrid flavours, the Lexus NX boast a classy interior and legendary Lexus reliability. It’s not the most fun car to drive and the steering wheel controls are quite confusing, though.

BMW X5

The X5 PHEV is something of a contradiction. On the one hand, it’ll do over 60 miles on a single charge in the right conditions, but on the other, it has 489hp and performance to shame many a sports car. It’s pricey but brilliant.

SEAT Leon

The SEAT Leon is the thinking man’s Golf. With a bit more interior space and the same e-Hybrid plug-in powertrain, it has an official electric range of 40 miles, decent acceleration and it’s even fun to drive.

Mercedes Benz C 300e

As tempting as the BMW 330e is, the C300e has a far longer electric range and sits in a lower BIK tax bracket. It’s not as fun to drive, though.

 

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