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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