Power Up: 5 Types of Hybrid Cars

Blue Hybrid car on a rooftop

Hybrid cars are quickly becoming the top choice for Brits who want to combine performance with planet-friendly transport. And let’s be honest, savings at the pump are a huge bonus. But with so many types of hybrid cars to choose from, how do you know which one’s for you?

Keep reading for a rundown of the different types of hybrid cars available in the UK and what each one brings to the table.

What is a hybrid car?

Let’s start with the basics. A hybrid car isn’t just another vehicle on the road. It has a dual personality and combines a traditional combustion petrol engine with an electric motor.

Hybrids can run on the petrol engine alone, the electric motor alone or a combination of both. This versatility is what makes hybrids so appealing. For example, a hybrid will draw on electric power when you’re nipping out to the shops and kick into petrol-powered mode for longer trips.

Now let’s get more specific about the different types of hybrid cars:

1. Mild Hybrid (MHEV)

Mild hybrids are an entry-level option and feature a small electric motor that gives the petrol engine a bit of extra muscle. They won’t run on electric power alone, but they do a great job at improving fuel economy, especially in start-stop traffic. This makes MHEVs terrific little city commuters.

Top pick: Ford Puma EcoBoost Hybrid

Of all the MHEVs available in the UK the Ford Puma is a firm favourite. This nifty mild hybrid SUV pairs a 48-volt battery with a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine to keep you moving along while using less fuel.

  • Athletic silhouette
  • Driver focused technology
  • Smart interior styling
  • Megabox for extra boot storage

2. Full Hybrid (HEV)

Step things up a notch with a full hybrid. These cars can run on just the petrol engine, just the electric motor or both at the same time. They’re good for city driving as the electric motor takes over completely at low speeds to slash your fuel use and emissions.

Top pick: Kia Sportage Hybrid Electric

Spacious and modern, the Kia Sportage Hybrid Electric is a top-selling HEV. Infotainment is a highlight, with a pair of huge 12.3-inch displays used to run the company’s industry-leading tech suite. Enjoy Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and sat-nav as standard.

  • 6 turbocharged petrol engine
  • All wheel drive or 2WD
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Plucky 1.49 kWh battery

Looking for something a bit more upmarket? The Hyundai Tucson is comparable to the Kia Sportage but comes with a slightly higher starting price. Of course, that buys you some nice extras like Hyundai Digital Key technology so you can lock and unlock the car with your smartphone.

3. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

PHEVs are one of the best types of hybrid cars if you want more electric range but don’t want to commit to an EV. With a bigger battery that can be charged externally, they offer extended electric-only driving and mean you can say goodbye to range anxiety. When the battery runs low, the petrol engine steps in to keep you rolling.

Top pick: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV gives you serious options. Unlock up to 28 miles of electric-only driving and use the petrol engine when you need to go further.

  • Combined range of over 400 miles

Whether you’re running urban errands or planning a long-distance road trip, the Outlander is up for the task. Craving adventure? High ground clearance and a spacious boot make the Outlander terrific for mud-splattered adventures.

4. Range-Extended Hybrid

Not quite ready to go full electric? A Range-Extended Hybrid could be the answer. These cars have a larger battery and a small petrol engine that acts as a generator when power is running low. It’s a clever way to reap the benefits of electric driving without the worry of running out of juice.

Top pick: Mazda MX-30 R-EV 

With a classy silhouette, fun handling and outstanding range, it’s no wonder the Mazda MX-30 R-EV was voted Best Plug-In Hybrid of the Year at the 2024 What Car? Awards.

  • 53 miles of pure electric range
  • More than 400 miles of combined range

What makes the Mazda MX-30 R-EV one of the best types of hybrid cars? Under the hood is a lightweight Rotary engine that acts as an onboard generator to recharge the battery when it runs low—the perfect compromise for motorists who want to go green without sacrificing range or convenience.

5. Hybrid SUV

Hybrid SUVs are brilliant if you need something with a bit more space and power but don’t want to drive a gas guzzler. The result? A car that’s perfect for everyday errands, longer trips and even a bit of off-roading.

Top Pick: Volvo XC90 T8

The Volvo XC90 T8 is a top pick for those who want luxury, space and eco-friendly driving in one package. With up to 31 miles of electric-only range and a total power output of 407 horsepower, it’s as gutsy as it is green.

The interior is Scandinavian to a T – clean lines, high-quality materials and

Finance a hybrid with My Car Credit

Whatever your motivation, whether it’s to save on fuel, do your bit for the environment or enjoy a whisper-quiet ride, there are types of hybrid cars out there for everyone. At My Car Credit, we’re here to help you find your perfect match with tailored car finance solutions for best-selling hybrids like the BMW 330e, Mercedes-Benz C 300 e, Kia Sorento, Dacia Jogger, Honda Civic, Skoda Octavia Estate and Toyota C-HR.

Thinking about going full electric? We can help with that too with finance for models like the Tesla Model 3 and Volkswagen ID 7. Use our car finance calculator to get started and find out more about how we can help make your next car a little kinder to the planet and your wallet.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Top 9 Best Cars for London Driving

Tower Bridge in London

From traffic-choked streets to sky-high congestion charges, driving in London can be a headache. That is, unless you’re behind the wheel of one of the best cars for London. Designed to zip around cities, these eco-friendly models are perfect for driving in the capital. From the ultra-compact Smart Fortwo Coupe to the all-electric Peugeot e-208, read on for our roundup of the best cars for London driving.

1. Audi A1 Sportback

Forget Chelsea Tractors. The latest Audi A1 Sportback packs style, luxury and space into a small package. This sleek model looks right at home driving around posh neighbourhoods like Kensington and Notting Hill. Light up the London night with powerful LED headlights and stay safe with the latest pedestrian and cyclist detection technology. The engine is small and highly efficient, a big draw for eco-conscious Londoners. 

2. Renault Twingo

A French-inspired silhouette isn’t the only feature to love about the Renault Twingo. The model swaps a standard front engine for rear placement, which unlocks extra cabin space and delivers an impressive turning circle. If you’ve ever pulled off a U-turn in London or manoeuvred into an ultra-tight parallel parking spot, you’ll know why this feature makes the Twingo one of the best cars for London. 

3. Tesla Model 3

You don’t need to look hard to spot a Tesla Model 3 in the capital. This coveted car is a staple on London streets and for good reason. It’s packed with next-generation technology and delivers a huge range of up to 374 miles. Unlike other EVs, Tesla drivers enjoy access to London’s ultra-fast Supercharger network.

4. Peugeot e-208

Teslas are no longer the only EVs on London streets. Models like the Peugeot e-208 are turning heads for all the right reasons. Under the hood is an all-electric powertrain capable of delivering more than 215 miles on a single charge. This is enough to complete an entire lap of the M25 – three times! Best of all? You’ll beat the London Congestion Charge.

Charging infrastructure in London is always improving, making the Peugeot e-208 a clever choice for motorists. Looking to hot tail it out of the city on a Friday afternoon? Switch into sport mode for heightened speed and performance. You’ll be off the motorway and into the countryside in no time. This makes the e-208 one of the best cars for London motorists who love to escape the city.

5. Smart Fortwo Coupe

This picket-sized model shares the same base as the Renault Twingo, which means you’ll enjoy an excellent turning circle. Once again, a huge bonus for navigating the highly congested streets of London.

The spacious boot of the Smart Fortwo Coupe is ideal for transporting groceries from A to B or packing in luggage for a weekend escape to the country. Unlock even more room by folding down the passenger seat. The standard engine is more than capable of city driving, though we recommend upgrading to the turbocharged engine if you plan to hit the motorway regularly. 

6. Mini Countryman Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

The Mini Countryman PHEV is an eco-conscious take on the best-selling model. It’s not fully electric, but with CO2 emissions of between 40 and 46g/km, it sidesteps the London Congestion Charge. Electric range is approximately 30 miles – enough to get you from Wimbledon to Wembley and back. If you’re looking for a PHEV for short commutes, the Mini Countryman is one of the best cars for London. Safety is front of mind in this model. For example, the acoustic pedestrian protection projects an external noise when you’re driving in whisper-quiet EV mode.

7. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Get behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, one of the most popular hybrids in the UK. Enjoy all the benefits of an SUV, including an elevated driving position for superior visibility. The 13.8kWh battery promises almost 30 miles of all-electric range, perfect for London commuters. You have the petrol engine as a backup, so no need to worry about covering longer distances. Low CO2 emissions make the model exempt from the London Congestion Charge.

8. BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 225xe

Looking for a MPV that sidesteps the London Congestion Charge? The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 225xe is one of the best large cars for London driving. This hybrid people carrier isn’t just spacious. It’s packed with city-friendly features like lane departure warnings, speed limit information and, best of all, parking assist technology. Whether you’re squeezing into a parallel spot in Chiswick or attempting a tight reverse park in Paddington, you’ll be glad you’re driving one of the best cars for London.

Heading to the M25? The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 225xe takes you from zero to 62 mph in just under seven seconds. Drive in all-electric mode and you’ll get between 25 and 32 miles of emission-free miles. You’re free to enter London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), making it ideal for commuters.

9. Mini Electric

Small and zippy, the Mini Electric is purpose-built for London life. It captures the fun and free-spirited vibe of the original 1959 model, with an eco-conscious spin. Behind the wheel you’ll enjoy a bright digital display and loads of clever driver-assist features. The 32kWh battery offers up to 145 miles on a single charge. Not ideal for longer road trips but perfect for driving around town. And yes, the electric engine means you’re exempt from the London Congestion Charge.

Find the right car loan for London driving

Want to secure the keys to one of the best cars for London? Use our purpose-built algorithm to calculate your car loan and find out how much you can borrow. Whether you’re looking for a brand-new Mini Electric or a used Audi A1 Sportback, our tailored car finance solutions can help you get behind the wheel of the best cars for London drivers.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
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Good

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  • You have a stable employment history
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Fair

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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Should I Buy a Mitsubishi in the UK?

Mitsubishi Mirage

While we love British brands like MINI and Land Rover, nothing compares to Mitsubishi when it comes to reliability, quality and value for money. The Japanese manufacturer is wildly popular in the UK and for good reason. So, should I buy a Mitsubishi in the UK? Read on for our complete guide, which has been designed to help you decide if a Mitsubishi is right for you.

What we love about Mitsubishi

Japanese manufacturing is synonymous with quality and attention to detail. Mitsubishi is no exception, and the company prides itself on building comfortable and affordable cars. Beyond the obvious perks of Japanese manufacturing, here’s a few reasons why we recommend getting behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi:

A long history of innovation

Mitsubishi has always pushed the envelope when it comes to innovation. For example, the company took the concept of AWD to the next level with its Super All-Wheel Control system. Engineered to dramatically improve stability, control and handling, the system engages all four tyres, so drivers can enjoy total peace of mind on even the most challenging terrain. Should I buy a Mitsubishi in the UK? If you’re all about innovation, the answer is yes!

Generous features

While some manufacturers ask motorists to pay for basic upgrades, Mitsubishi is generous when it comes to standard features. In most models, you can expect to see high-tech infotainment systems, advanced climate control, keyless ignition and superlative security included.

Should I buy a Mitsubishi in the UK? If you love to get the best bang for your buck, you’ll love Mitsubishi. For example, the popular Mitsubishi ASX is one of the best-value SUVs on the market and packed with state-of-the-art entertainment options and safety features.

Excellent fuel economy

Should I buy a Mitsubishi in the UK if fuel economy is a priority? Definitely. Affordability is front of mind at Mitsubishi, so it’s no surprise engineers place a big focus on fuel economy. With petrol prices hitting never-before-seen highs in the UK, fuel efficiency has never been more important for British motorists.

Most Mitsubishi models deliver, including the best-selling Mirage. Small and compact, the 1.2-litre petrol engine model offers an impressive 56.5mpg. Depending on the specs, CO2 emissions range from 113-127g/km, a big drawcard for eco-conscious motorists. While new models are no longer available to purchase in the UK, you’ll see plenty of Mirages on the used car market.

Terrific plug-in hybrid options

An increasing number of motorists are embracing the ‘best of both worlds’ benefits offered by plug-in hybrid vehicles. So, should I buy a Mitsubishi in the UK if I’m looking for plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options? Absolutely! Mitsubishi launched the Outlander PHEV in 2013 and the model has been winning over Brits ever since. The combination of a petrol powered engine and plug-in capability has made the model a perennial favourite with drivers looking to transition to an electric car, without making an exclusive commitment.

Under the hood is a powerful 2.4-litre petrol engine, plus a pair of electric motors. In EV mode the car can clock 28 miles, making it ideal for daily commutes, school runs and everyday errands. If you need to cover longer distances, the petrol engine will get you there. On top of incredible fuel efficiency, the Outlander PHEV boasts generous dimensions.

An increasing UK presence

Mitsubishi may be a Japanese company, but it maintains a strong presence in the UK. While the company recently announced plans to depart the European market in the wake of sluggish sales, a new deal with Renault will see Mitsubishi models built in the French-owned plants. This is great news for Brits and will ensure Mitsubishis continue to maintain a presence on UK roads.  

Following the recent acquisition by the IM Group, the company also opened new offices in Cirencester. It will be HQ for Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, with IM Group Managing Director Andrew Edmiston calling it an “exciting day” for the company.

“We were delighted to bring on board the Mitsubishi Team and now that the business transition is complete, they have become fully part of the IM Group,” says Edmiston. “Retaining an office in Cirencester was really important to us so the opportunity at Watermoor Point provided the perfect solution.”

Some drawbacks of driving a Mitsubishi

As we explored above, there’s plenty to love about Mitsubishis. But of course, they’re not for everyone. Below, we take a closer look at some of the drawbacks you might encounter when driving a Mitsubishi:

Lacks luxury

Despite offering plenty of complimentary extras and add-ons, Mitsubishi models lack the luxury of other manufacturers. While comfortable, you won’t see features like premium leather interiors and butter-soft dashboards. Of course, this keeps prices low and makes a Mitsubishi an excellent choice for budget-conscious motorists.

Power and acceleration

Another barrier to ownership is power and acceleration. While Mitsubishi engines are of excellent quality, they don’t necessarily offer the same oomph as other manufacturers. If you’re looking for serious power and acceleration, a Mitsubishi may not be the right choice for you. That said, they’re more than capable of getting you from A to B. Most drivers will be more than happy with the on-road performance offered by Mitsubishi models.

No all-electric options… yet!

Mitsubishi has enjoyed huge success with its PHEV models. However, the company has yet to dip its toes into the all-electric market. Mitsubishi has launched a fully electric model in Japan, but the company has confirmed it won’t enter the British market until it has a solid EV model to offer.

“In order to survive in Europe definitely we need an EV platform, so an EV will be a very strong possibility for us,” says Mitsubishi CEO Takao Kato. In other words, watch this space.

Drive your ambition with Mitsubishi

Should I buy a Mitsubishi in the UK? For most motorists, a Mitsubishi is an excellent choice. As touched on earlier, the company has revived its presence in the UK, which means you can still enjoy access to dedicated Mitsubishi service centres and customer assistance.

Thinking about getting behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi? You can get there much faster with car finance. Whether you’re shopping for a second-hand Mirage or a brand-new Shogun Sport, our tailored car finance service will stretch your pound further. Wondering how much you could borrow? Use our car loan finance calculator to discover exactly what you’re eligible for.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
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  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!