We are all aware that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are an environmentally-friendly option due to their low CO2 emissions. But they also offer a financial benefit, especially if you can take advantage of low overnight electricity rates by charging them at home.
Plug-in hybrids bring together the best of both worlds—combustion and fully electric vehicles—by featuring a small petrol engine for longer trips and an electric motor with a battery for short journeys. This allows drivers to enjoy the benefits of electric motoring without the concern of running out of battery mid-trip. And the electric ranges of PHEVs are improving constantly; some models can now travel 80 miles or more on electric power alone.
Best Plug-in Hybrid Cars
We’ve tested every plug-in hybrid on the market. Our team of experienced road testers has evaluated their performance on both private test tracks and public roads, considering interior quality, practicality, and value for money. We’ve also paid particular attention to the factors that PHEV buyers often prioritize, such as reliability and the smoothness of the hybrid system.
1. MG HS 1.5T Plug-in Hybrid
The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid stands out for being surprisingly affordable, especially in the entry-level SE trim. It offers exceptional value compared to other PHEVs. Despite its lower price, the interior doesn’t feel cheap—it’s comparable to the more expensive Citroën C5 Aircross in terms of quality. The car comes well-equipped with an array of driver assistance features and a responsive 12.3-inch infotainment screen as standard.
The MG HS also boasts an impressive electric range of 75 miles, placing it among the top performers in this segment. Some competitors, like the Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid, require a significantly higher price to achieve a similar range. In addition, it’s practical, offering more interior space than the Mazda MX-30 R-EV, and its generous boot makes it ideal for families or longer trips.
At the time of writing, prices for the MG HS 1.5T Plug-in Hybrid start from £33,995.
2. Volkswagen Passat 1.5 TSI eHybrid
The Volkswagen Passat has shifted from a hatchback to an estate-only offering, competing against rivals such as the BMW 3 Series Touring and Citroën C5 X. As a plug-in hybrid, it stands out as a better option than many competitors in its category.
Available with two PHEV variants, the more affordable version delivers a combined output of 201bhp, thanks to its 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor. Its 19.7kWh battery offers an official electric range of up to 81 miles, outpacing rivals and allowing for most daily commutes on electric power alone.
The Passat’s boot is larger than many competitors, and its spacious rear seats make it comfortable for taller passengers. The interior offers a mix of soft-touch materials and high-quality plastics, creating a premium feel that rivals more expensive models.
At the time of writing, prices for the Volkswagen Passat 1.5 TSI eHybrid start from £44,105.
3. Mazda MX-30
The Mazda MX-30, despite being a bit late to the plug-in hybrid scene, addresses the previous electric-only version’s limitations. While the all-electric MX-30 had a relatively short range, the new R-EV version features a small engine that acts as a generator to extend its range. It also delivers more power—168bhp compared to the regular model’s 143bhp—resulting in a quicker 0-62mph time of 9.1 seconds.
As a cash purchase, the R-EV is more affordable than competitors like the DS 4 E-Tense and Kia Niro PHEV. However, it’s essential to regularly plug the car in to achieve the official economy figures of 283mpg.
The MX-30’s rear-seat space remains limited, and the reverse-hinged rear doors, though unique, can be awkward in tight parking spots.
At the time of writing, prices for the Mazda MX-30 R-EV start from £31,495.
4. BMW X5 xDrive50e
The BMW X5 xDrive50e stands out in the plug-in hybrid luxury SUV category. Offering a remarkable 65-mile electric range, it’s one of the few vehicles that can cover a long distance without using any petrol, which is ideal for daily commuting. With an official fuel economy figure of 235mpg (though we recorded 27mpg with a flat battery), it delivers excellent efficiency, especially for company car drivers who will benefit from low tax bills.
The driving experience is superb, with responsive steering and a comfortable yet composed ride. Acceleration is also impressive, with a 0-62mph time of just 4.8 seconds, rivaling high-performance vehicles like the Range Rover Sport.
The X5’s interior quality and technology are exceptional, though it’s slightly less practical than alternatives like the Volvo XC90.
At the time of writing, prices for the BMW X5 xDrive50e start from £82,055.
5. Mercedes GLC 300e
The Mercedes GLC 300e offers one of the longest electric-only ranges in its category, with an official range of 80 miles. However, the GLC 300e is not just about range—it’s also a well-rounded PHEV with a smooth and refined powertrain, brisk performance, and agile handling. While it may not handle as sharply as non-hybrid models, it still offers excellent grip and composure on the road.
Inside, the GLC impresses with a tech-packed interior and a spacious boot. Rear-seat space is also generous compared to rivals like the Lexus NX, making the GLC an excellent option for both families and company car drivers.
At the time of writing, prices for the Mercedes GLC 300e start from £58,860.
6. Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI eHybrid
The Volkswagen Golf has long been a favorite among families, and this remains true with its plug-in hybrid model. The Golf 1.5 TSI eHybrid provides an efficient alternative to its premium rivals, like the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class, thanks to its blend of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor. It can travel up to 88 miles on electric power alone, which will appeal to those keen on reducing running costs or looking for a company car.
While its counterpart, the Seat Leon, offers more driving excitement, the Golf’s light steering makes it perfect for navigating through traffic. It offers a smooth ride, even with the standard suspension, though adaptive suspension can be added as an option, enabling you to adjust the ride firmness with ease.
At the time of writing, the price of the Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI eHybrid starts from £37,135.
7. Mercedes C-Class C300e
The Mercedes C-Class C300e is a strong contender in the plug-in hybrid category, offering the same quality that its GLC and E-Class siblings provide, but at a more affordable price. It comes with rear air suspension as standard, ensuring a smooth ride despite the added weight of the batteries. With an electric-only range of up to 68 miles, it’s a solid choice for those who need to reduce their company car tax.
The C300e is a practical option, with a boot that mirrors the size of the regular C-Class. While it may not match rivals like the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series in terms of interior build quality, the C-Class offers a luxurious look and feel.
At the time of writing, prices for the Mercedes C-Class C300e start from £49,860.
8. Skoda Kodiaq 1.5 TSI iV
The Skoda Kodiaq 1.5 TSI iV is a plug-in hybrid option that combines value for money with practicality. It offers an official electric-only range of up to 76 miles, making it ideal for daily commutes. The 1.5-litre petrol engine, when it kicks in, provides smooth and punchy performance.
The Kodiaq is a comfortable vehicle to drive, offering firm ride control and decent handling, though it may not be the sharpest SUV on the market. Its spacious interior offers a huge boot, though the plug-in hybrid version lacks the height-adjustable boot floor found in other Kodiaq models.
At the time of writing, the Skoda Kodiaq 1.5 TSI iV starts from £34,500.
9. Mercedes E-Class E300e
The Mercedes E-Class E300e is a premium plug-in hybrid offering, with a combined 328bhp from its 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor. This makes it the most powerful E-Class currently available, achieving 0-62mph in just 6.5 seconds. The E-Class offers a spacious, luxurious interior with ample head and legroom, making it ideal for long journeys.
However, the E-Class loses some boot space due to the hybrid setup, though it still offers sufficient space for family luggage. Its infotainment system, while visually appealing, isn’t as user-friendly as its competitors, such as the BMW 5 Series’ iDrive system.
At the time of writing, prices for the Mercedes E-Class E300e start from £64,610.
10. Range Rover Evoque P270e
The Range Rover Evoque P270e stands out as the fastest option in its range, with a 0-62mph time of just 6.1 seconds. This plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a 15kWh battery, offering an electric-only range of up to 38 miles.
Inside, the Evoque is refined, with high-quality materials used throughout. The driving position provides a commanding view of the road, and the interior is well-equipped, making it a solid choice for those seeking a luxury SUV. The Evoque is also surprisingly spacious for its size, offering generous room for rear passengers, though the boot space is smaller compared to rivals like the BMW X1 and Volvo XC40.
At the time of writing, prices for the Range Rover Evoque P270e start from £49,000.
About the Author
