Estate

Hatchback

Saloon

Munich-based BMW is most famous for its sports saloons, in particular the 3 Series and 5 Series. However, it actually builds almost every type of car imaginable: everything from two-seat convertibles to seven-seat MPVs.

The cheapest model in the BMW range is the 1 Series hatchback, which is a rival to the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf. Meanwhile, at the other extreme is the M8&nbsp;grand tourer, which costs more than £120,000.

BMW was also quick to capitalise on the rise of the SUV and now has ten in its range: the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7 and XM, plus the electric iX3 and iX.

All of this makes it one of the big three German prestige brands, along with Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

Honda is a company that doesn’t like to follow the crowd. So, while it competes in most of the traditional sectors of the car market, in each case it does something a little bit different.

The Jazz, for example, might look like just another rival to Britain’s best-selling car, the Ford Fiesta, but it’s actually much more practical than its rivals, with a flexible boot and Tardis-like interior.

The bigger Civic is also a practical choice, but it’s mainly distinguished by having eye-catching, love-it-or-hate-it styling, despite competing in a sector of the market that’s usually more conservative than a blue rosette.

And while it may not seem so radical now, Honda’s large SUV, the CR-V, was one of the first to forego any pretence of being an off-roader and instead focus on on-road driving dynamics.

HONDA

Hyundai has transformed itself from a maker of oddball hatchbacks that sold in small numbers in the UK, to a major rival to the likes of Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen.

The Korean firm’s Ioniq Hybrid is particularly impressive, having beaten the trend-setting Toyota Prius when we tested the cars back to back.

Meanwhile, at the extremes of the Hyundai range you find the tiny i10 city car – a four-time What Car? award winner – and the stylish yet family-friendly Santa Fe SUV.

As a bonus, all of these cars come with the reassurance of a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, whereas most of Hyundai’s rivals offer only three years and 60,000 miles of cover.

HYUNDAI

In the same way that Infiniti acts as Nissan’s premium arm, Lexus has a similar tie-in with Toyota. And since most of Toyota’s models are offered as hybrids, it’s no surprise to see the same from Lexus, although there are some traditional petrol engines, too.

The brand focuses heavily on SUVs – namely the NX and RX – but also has the CT hatchback, ES executive saloon and LS luxury car among its portfolio. More small and large SUVs are expected in the future.

Like Toyota, Lexus has built a very strong reputation for reliability and regularly finishes very close to the top of our annual Reliability Survey.

LEXUS

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

MG has a long heritage in the UK, and while these days it is owned by Chinese firm SAIC, it is slowly but surely beefing up its model range.

Kicking things off is the MG 3, a rival for affordable hatchbacks such as the Dacia Sandero and Skoda Fabia. Then there’s the ZS small SUV, which faces off against the likes of the Renault Captur and Seat Arona. And at the top of the range is the GS, which goes up against Dacia’s Duster and the Ssangyong Tivoli.

While any future MG products are likely to be introduced in China before coming to the UK, design work is still undertaken in the UK. MG’s design studio is based at Longbridge, where the brand made its name with models such as the MGB GT.

MG MOTOR UK

While Mitsubishi sells both the Mirage hatchback and the L200 pick-up truck in the UK, the core of its range is in SUVs – handy, since this is one of the largest markets worldwide.

There’s an SUV to suit everyone, too. If you’re a company car driver, the Outlander PHEV mixes low fuel bills with a spacious interior. The ASX, meanwhile, is attractively priced against key rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai and Seat Ateca. Or, if you prefer mud to asphalt, the Shogun offers genuine off-road ability.

More SUVs are on the way, too, including one that’s rumoured to bring back the ‘Evo’ name made famous in rallying.

MITSUBISHI

Porsche is best known as the quintessential sports car maker, but its line-up is increasingly diverse, interesting and successful, from its SUV family to the Panamera hatchback and shooting brake and, in time, a planned family of electric vehicles.

Whatever your choice, What Car?’s testers rate the cars highly; Porsche has an unusually high percentage of five and four-star cars.

Without exception, its sports cars are class leaders or among the class leaders, standing out for combining driving thrills with surprising luxury and comfort. Likewise, its SUVs are among the sharpest handling, as well as offering high levels of practicality and quality. Meanwhile, the Panamera is a true rival to the very best large executive saloons.

Porsche also sees itself as an electric car pioneer and has already enjoyed sales success with its plug-in hybrid range. Its first all-electric sports car is imminent, signalling the firm’s intent to stay relevant for many years to come.

PORSCHE

One of the greatest success stories in the car world of recent decades is Skoda’s rise to become a hugely credible mainstream maker of good-value, good-sense cars.

Central to that success has been its place within the VW Group, alongside the Volkswagen brand itself, plus the likes of Seat and Audi. That has given it access to exactly the same underpinnings for its cars as the other brands, and it has complemented this by adding its own developments, from the way the cars drive and ride through to the features they have and the pricing.

The result is a range that extends from a city car to a large executive saloon, with family and large seven-seat SUVs too. There’s a wide variety of petrol and diesel engines, all of which are competitive for the class.

As a result, Skoda has a range of cars that is almost entirely class-leading or among the class leaders, and it has enjoyed long-time success at the What Car? Awards as a result.

SKODA

3 SERIES

5 SERIES

CIVIC

CR-V hybrid

IONIQ

KONA ELECTRIC

OCTAVIA

OUTLANDER PHEV

PANAMERA

Temporary taxonomy to get review live. Proper taxonomy to be investigated.

ChrisH 05/11/2019

X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid

best-used-hybrid-cars

5 Series

3 Series

Volkswagen

Passat GTE

Hyundai

Ioniq

Mercedes

C-Class

Volvo

XC90

Toyota

Corolla

Coupe

The 330e takes all that's good about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91">BMW 3 Series</a> saloon - and that's a lot - and adds a plug-in hybrid capability that gives it up to 37&nbsp;miles of electric-only motoring. It goes without saying that it handles beautifully, rides well and is comfortable inside. It's also endowed with a great interior and a class-leading iDrive infotainment system. On top of that, it's really good value too. In short, it's a terrific buy.&nbsp;

"All the class and glamour and refinement of a regular petrol-engined 3 Series and the ability to run on electric power alone? Sign me up!" - Mark Pearson, used cars editor

We found: 2021&nbsp;BMW 330e M Sport, 43,000&nbsp;miles, £16,995

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/used-review/n20393">used BMW 3 Series review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/bmw/3-series/bmw-3-series-330e-sport-4dr-step-auto/bmw-3-series-2018-330e-sport-4dr-step-auto-535c691e">used BMW 330e for sale</a>

BMW 330e

The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/honda/jazz/hatchback/review/n17343">Honda Jazz</a> is the<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/best-small-cars-2022/n16997"> small car</a> to beat for passenger and luggage space, while its unique and incredibly flexible rear seating only adds to its practicality. Visibility is excellent, too, which helps make it easy to manoeuvre and park, while generous standard equipment, strong resale values and low running costs make it even more desirable. It's good to drive and very reliable too.&nbsp;

"An immensely strong and clever car with easy refinement and almost unequalled practicality. I have one of the old ones, and that one just keeps on running." - Mark Pearson, used cars editor

We found: 2022&nbsp;Honda Jazz 1.5 i-MMD Hybrid SE, 28,000 miles, £14,500&nbsp;

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/honda/jazz/hatchback/used-review/n24519">used Honda Jazz review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/volkswagen/golf/volkswagen-golf-1.4-tsi-gte-5dr-dsg/volkswagen-golf-2016-14-tsi-gte-5dr-dsg-81990d5e">used Honda Jazz for sale</a>

Honda Jazz

The Volvo XC90 T8 offers all the quality and practicality of the regular <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/review/n99">Volvo XC90</a>. It's good to drive and well equipped, too, with a wonderfully stylish and comfortable interior. What’s more, unlike some hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs, the T8 doesn’t lose its third row of seats, meaning it's still a full seven-seater. It can drive on its electric motor alone, and do so for around 25 miles - useful if you travel in town.&nbsp;

"Go big and go hybrid with this incredibly classy and Skandi-cool XC90. I love its interior.' - George Hill, used cars writer

We found: 2017&nbsp;Volvo XC90 T8 Momentum, 60,000 miles, £23,795&nbsp;

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/used-review/n838">used Volvo XC90&nbsp;review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/volvo/xc90/volvo-xc90-2.0-t8-hybrid-inscription-5dr-geartronic/volvo-xc90-2016-20-t8-hybrid-inscription-5dr-geartronic-eabd6385">used Volvo XC90 for sale</a>

Volvo XC90 T8

Like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91">BMW 330e</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf-gte/hatchback/used-review/n18035">Volkswagen Golf GTE</a>&nbsp;is a plug-in hybrid with a sporty edge.&nbsp; It’ll also officially cover up to 31 miles on electric power alone, and if that fits with your commute well enough that you rarely use petrol power, it can be very affordable to run. It’s well screwed together inside, and you get lots of equipment, including climate control and front and rear parking sensors. In our 2024&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/class/reliability">Reliability Survey</a>, this generation of the Golf scored a respectable 91.8% in the family car class.

"Everything that's good about a Golf and a plug-in hybrid too. I love the way they drive and the way they look, so classy." - George Hill, used cars writer

We found: 2019&nbsp;Volkswagen Golf GTE 1.4 TSI Advance, 48,000 miles, £14,000

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf-gte/hatchback/used-review/n18035">used Volkswagen Golf GTE review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/volkswagen/golf?sort=distance">used Volkswagen Golf GTE for sale</a>

Volkswagen Golf GTE

The Honda Civic is a wonderfully efficient hatchback, easily capable of returning 49mpg in ordinary driving. Sure, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/corolla/hatchback/review/n18901">Toyota Corolla</a>&nbsp;is even more frugal, but the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/honda">Honda</a>&nbsp;more than compensates in other areas. Performance is strong; the Civic can dash from 0-60mph in 6.8sec. Good grip and precise steering help make the Civic fun to drive. It's classy inside, practical and proving reliable too. Used prices are beginning to look especially tempting.&nbsp;

"This is one of the most impressive cars here and, to be honest, it'd be my favourite if it wasn't for a little bit too much road noise. Still great, though." - Mark Pearson, used cars editor

We found: 2022 Honda Civic 2.0 h i-MMD Elegance, 30,000 miles, £23,995

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/honda/civic/hatchback/used-review/n26162">used Honda Civic&nbsp;review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/honda/civic?sort=distance">used Honda Civic&nbsp;for sale</a>

Honda Civic

This latest <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/corolla/hatchback/review/n18901">Toyota Corolla</a> was a major step forward for the Japanese firm. It's a great family hatchback and a great hybrid car, and one of the few on our top 10 list here that's actually a self-charging rather than a plug-in hybrid. The 1.8 version we've found here even racked up a True MPG figure in our tests of 60.6mpg, and on top of that it offers a good driving position, plenty of kit&nbsp;and a comfortable ride, while Toyota's reliability record is second to none. You can also choose between&nbsp;a regular family hatchback or an impressive estate version known as the Touring Sports.&nbsp;

"Runs the Civic incredibly close. You'd be more than happy with one of these on your driveway." - George Hill, used cars writer

We found: 2021&nbsp;Corolla Touring Sports 1.8&nbsp;Hybrid Icon tech, 46,000 miles, £12,995

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/corolla/hatchback/used-review/n20451">used Toyota Corolla&nbsp;review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/toyota/corolla/toyota-corolla-1.8-vvt-i-hybrid-excel-5dr-cvt/toyota-corolla-2020-18-vvt-i-hybrid-excel-5dr-cvt-a0718f3a">used Toyota Corolla for sale</a>

Toyota Corolla

We love the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/5-series/saloon/review/n63">BMW 5 Series</a> – especially the plug-in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-reviews/category/hybrid">hybrid</a> version. Like the rest of the range, the 530e is great to drive and wonderfully refined. It’s also able to see off the 0-62mph dash in less than six seconds and polish off motorway cruises in spectacular style. The 530e can officially cover up to 36 miles on electric power, leading to potentially low running costs for such a large, luxurious car. Inside, the 530e is spacious, comfortable and classy, with the most user-friendly infotainment system on offer.&nbsp;

"So much class on show here, and such a lot of car for the money. My favourite hybrid here.' - George Hill, used cars writer

We found: 2020&nbsp;BMW 530e M Sport, 45,000 miles, £19,990

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/5-series/saloon/used-review/n991">used BMW 5 Series&nbsp;review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/bmw/5-series/bmw-5-series-530e-m-sport-4dr-auto/bmw-5-series-2018-530e-m-sport-4dr-auto-d7038bfd">used BMW 530e for sale</a>

BMW 530e

BMW's plug-in hybrid version of its mighty <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x5/4x4/review/n38">BMW X5</a>&nbsp;is every bit as comfortable and luxurious as the petrol and diesel versions, and you barely notice the extra weight of its batteries, even in corners. You can't have seven seats, but that's the only significant downside. Indeed, it has a much longer electric range than the rival <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/review/n99">Volvo XC90</a> Recharge T8, and a far more user-friendly infotainment system. It's not as old as the XC90, so not as cheap, hence it doesn't finish further up our list.&nbsp;

"I like the chunkiness and sheer class the X5 exudes. Not cheap, but one of the best, and a great electric-only range." - George Hill, used cars writer

We found: 2020 BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport, 60,000&nbsp;miles, £30,995

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x5/4x4/used-review/n21110">used BMW X5 review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/audi/a3/audi-a3-1.4-tfsi-e-tron-5dr-s-tronic/audi-a3-2018-14-tfsi-e-tron-5dr-s-tronic-c0c51abc">used BMW X5 for sale</a>

BMW X5 

Available in both saloon and estate forms, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/passat/estate/review/n29">Volkswagen Passat GTE</a>&nbsp;is a smooth, quiet plug-in hybrid executive car with a smart, capacious interior. It can cover up to 31 miles on a full charge (39 miles in later versions), leading to potentially impressive fuel economy. It’s great to drive and impressively practical too, especially so in estate car form. Only its poor showing in our most recent reliability survey relegates it down our list.&nbsp;

"Previously one of our top cars in this class but its poor reliability record lets it down this year. Still an impressive car, though." - George Hill, used cars writer

We found:&nbsp;2021&nbsp;Volkswagen Passat 1.4 TSI GTE Advance, 75,000 miles, £14,950

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/passat-gte/estate/used-review/n18007">used VW Passat GTE&nbsp;review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/volkswagen/passat/volkswagen-passat-1.4-tsi-gte-advance-5dr-dsg/volkswagen-passat-2018-14-tsi-gte-advance-5dr-dsg-0164277e">used VW Passat GTE for sale</a>

Volkswagen Passat GTE

The<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-reviews/make/hyundai"> Hyundai</a> Ioniq was the first car to be offered on sale with three forms of electrification: as a hybrid model that combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, a plug-in hybrid version with a bigger battery that you can charge externally or an electric vehicle (EV). The plug-in version gives a good potential electric-only range of up to 30 miles in earlier models and 39 miles in post-2019 cars - which really helps the overall fuel consumption, especially if your journeys are mostly short. It's good to drive, well equipped and roomy inside, too.&nbsp;

"A great entry-level hybrid car, in either version, and now really cheap to buy used." - Mark Pearson, used cars editor

We found: 2019&nbsp;Hyundai Ioniq PHEV Premium SE, 68,000 miles, £8000

Read our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/ioniq/saloon/used-review/n891">used Hyundai Ioniq review</a>

Search for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/hyundai/ioniq/hyundai-ioniq-1.6-gdi-plug-in-hybrid-premium-5dr-dct/hyundai-ioniq-2018-16-gdi-plug-in-hybrid-premium-5dr-dct-c606f909">used Hyundai Ioniq for sale</a>

<hr />
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the <a href="http://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">What Car? Newsletter here</a>

Hyundai Ioniq

With the Government proposing to <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/petrol-diesel-car-ban/n23064">ban the sale of new pure petrol or diesel-engined cars</a>, those anxious to dip their toes in the future can either opt for a full-fat <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/electric-cars/n17000">electric vehicle</a> now or experiment first with a little petrol-electric <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/hybrid-cars/n17013">hybrid</a> action. That is to say, a car powered by a petrol engine combined with an electric motor. There are two hybrid types: 'self-charging' models, which mix petrol and electric power to maximise efficiency, and plug-in hybrids that can travel many miles purely on electricity before their engines need to cut in. There are plenty of either to buy used now, so many in fact that picking your way through the maze isn’t as easy as it once was. So here we bring you our guide to the 10 best used <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-hybrid-cars-2022/n17013">hybrid cars</a>.

Best used hybrid cars

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Low running costs compared with solely petrol or diesel equivalents</li> <li>Very low official CO2 emissions to benefit company car drivers</li> <li>The same usability as a regular car</li> <li>Smooth transition between electric and engine power</li> <li>Small practicality compromise over conventional models</li></ul>

Not so long ago, hybrids were the preserve of Hollywood stars, environmentally conscious 'early adopters' and the odd&nbsp;minicab driver looking to save a bit of money on fuel.

Since the collapse in demand for diesel, however, they have become&nbsp;much more popular, and it's easy to see why, with&nbsp;low tax bills and&nbsp;impressive MPG figures&nbsp;just a couple of the perks they offer.

There are two types of hybrid: 'self-charging'&nbsp;models, which mix petrol&nbsp;and electric power in an effort to maximise&nbsp;efficiency, and&nbsp;plug-in hybrids that can travel many miles purely on electricity before their engines need to cut in. This category is for the former type of cars.

Hybrid

used-car-of-the-year-awards-hybrid-cars

Golf GTE

Price from £17,000 Our pick 330e M Sport (Pro Pack)If we were to pretend that <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/executive-cars/n2004">executive cars</a> were a group of friends on a night out, we reckon the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91">BMW 3 Series</a> would be first in the karaoke queue. As sophisticated saloons go, it’s never been afraid to let its hair down.Even the 330e plug-in hybrid version – the one you might assume would be the tamest member of the bunch – has a strong sense of fun. Its rear-wheel drive (or four-wheel drive if you opt for an xDrive version) handling is playful and involving, while its 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor produce a total of 288bhp, for an impressive 0-62mph time of just 5.2sec. The rival <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/c-class/saloon/review/n70">Mercedes-Benz C300e,</a> by contrast, is both slower and less fun to drive.The 330e knows when to mellow out, mind you. Switch over to electric mode and, provided you have a full battery, you officially have up to 37 miles of quiet, zero-emissions motoring at your disposal; that’s more than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf-gte/hatchback/used-review/n18035">Volkswagen Golf GTE</a> gives you. And when the 330e’s engine finally needs to kick in, it does so in a smooth and refined manner.

The interior has a polished feel about it, with the materials being of a suitably premium quality and build quality being suitably solid. What truly sets it apart from its rivals inside, though, is its class-leading infotainment system. This is easy to use, aided by a handy rotary controller between the front seats.The 3 Series is roomier inside than a C300e or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/s60/saloon/used-review/n22672">Volvo S60 Recharge</a>, with more head and leg room in the rear seats. The seatbacks split in a 40/20/40 fashion, and that makes loading longer items through from the boot easier. The boot itself is a decent size, with enough room for five carry-on suitcases.Despite all of this good news, used prices are hugely tempting, with early examples starting at just £17,000 and 2022 cars at around £22,000 (or roughly half the price they cost new). You won’t find a C300e for that little, nor the (admittedly larger) <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/review/n99">Volvo XC90 Recharge</a>.We recommend M Sport trim (because it’s the most common), but try to seek out a car that has the optional Pro Pack fitted; this brings adaptive suspension, making for a plusher ride in Comfort driving mode.<hr /><h2>Also consider...</h2><h3>Best for value</h3>Volkswagen Golf GTE (2015-2020)

Price from £10,000 Our pick 1.4 TSI GTELike the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91">BMW 330e</a>, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf-gte/hatchback/used-review/n18035">Volkswagen Golf GTE</a> is a plug-in hybrid with a sporty edge.With a 0-62mph time of 7.6sec, it certainly feels quick, helped by the instantaneous response of its electric motor.It’ll also officially cover up to 31 miles on electric power alone, and if that fits with your commute well enough that you rarely use petrol power, it can be very affordable to run.With used prices starting at £10,000, the GTE is cheaper to buy than the closely related <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a3/hatchback/used-review/n17405">Audi A3 e-tron</a>. However, it doesn’t feel cheap; it’s well screwed together inside, and you get lots of equipment, including climate control and front and rear parking sensors. The GTE feels a more premium product than a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/ioniq/saloon/used-review/n891">Hyundai Ioniq</a> plug-in hybrid, for instance.The GTE should be dependable, too. In our 2024 <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/class/reliability">Reliability Survey</a>, this generation of the Golf scored a respectable 91.8% in the family car class.<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf-gte/hatchback/used-review/n18035">Read our full used Volkswagen Golf GTE review &gt;&gt;</a><a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/volkswagen/golf?sort=distance&amp;keywords=gte">Find a used Volkswagen Golf GTE for sale &gt;&gt;</a><hr /><h3>Best seven-seater</h3>Volvo XC90 (2016-present)

Price from £23,000 Our pick Recharge T8 InscriptionYour plug-in hybrid might need to juggle a lot more than just petrol and electric power; perhaps a bustling family life is in the mix. If so, we’d point you towards the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/review/n99">Volvo XC90 Recharge</a>. It’s a genuine seven- seater, with a third row roomy enough for adults – for short distances, at least.Boot space is slightly reduced compared with regular XC90s (to accommodate the battery), but there’s still loads; in five-seat mode, it can hold more carry-on suitcases (10) than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/santa-fe/4x4/review/n68">Hyundai Santa Fe</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sorento/4x4/review/n18">Kia Sorento</a>.The XC90 Recharge is generous elsewhere, too, with up to 43 miles of official electric range, a power output of more than 400bhp and a classy, well- made interior. What’s more, you can readily pick up an example in high-spec Inscription trim for roughly the same price as lesser versions, while owner feedback suggests the XC90 Recharge is more reliable than the Sorento.<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/used-review/n838">Read our full used Volvo XC90 review &gt;&gt;</a><a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/volvo/xc90?sort=distance">Find a used Volvo XC90 for sale &gt;&gt;</a><hr />For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

Used Car of the Year Awards: Hybrid cars

the-10-cheapest-hybrid-cars-you-can-buy-–-reviewed-and-rated

cheapest-hybrid-cars

Renault

Clio

Yaris

Dacia

Jogger

Mazda

2 Hybrid

Duster

Captur

YARIS CROSS

Honda

Jazz

Version&nbsp;1.5 Hybrid SE |&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£18,495&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£17,823

The cheapest hybrid&nbsp;you can buy is the MG3. While some rivals are better to drive and more practical, it does have plenty of appeal thanks to its&nbsp;cheap price tag, comfortable ride&nbsp;and generous equipment list. Even this entry-level SE car, for example, comes with a&nbsp;10.25in touchscreen,&nbsp;front and rear electric windows, and adaptive cruise control.

The most notable&nbsp;aspect of the MG3, though, is its hybrid system. Not only is it surprisingly punchy&nbsp;with 191bhp at its disposal, but it's also great on fuel. Officially, it can manage&nbsp;63mpg on average, which is similar to what&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/clio/hatchback/review/n97">Renault Clio</a> and mild hybrid <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/suzuki/swift/hatchback/review/n54">Suzuki Swift</a>&nbsp;can achieve.&nbsp;We also like the fact it's quiet and refined to drive around town, with the engine chiming in smoothly when necessary.

There is a slight concern with&nbsp;reliability, though.&nbsp;MG finished in last place out of 31 brands in our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/reliability-survey-most-reliable-cars/n26137">2024 Reliability Survey</a>, which is lower than Renault (9th) and Suzuki (3rd). At least it comes with&nbsp;a seven-year/80,000-mile warranty to give you peace of mind.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mg-motor-uk/mg3/hatchback/review/n17867">MG3&nbsp;review</a>

Version&nbsp;1.6 E-Tech Full Hybrid 145 Evolution&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£21,595&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£19,477

Our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/car-of-the-year-awards-small-car-of-the-year/n25356">2024 Small Car of the Year</a>, the Renault Clio is a fantastic all-rounder. It’s fun to drive without sacrificing much in the way of comfort, plus it&nbsp;has a smart yet practical interior. The best part, though, is that it's very well priced. Sure, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mg-motor-uk/mg3/hatchback/review/n17867">MG3</a> is slightly cheaper, but it's not as capable as the Clio, particularly when it comes to&nbsp;handling, practicality and build quality.

This entry-level Evolution car is very well equipped for the money, and includes&nbsp;full LED headlights, automatic windscreen wipers, keyless start, automatic climate control, a 7.0in touchscreen infotainment and rear parking sensors. We would recommend going for the mid-level Techno trim, though; it gets&nbsp;a leather steering wheel, a wireless phone-charging pad, automatic LED headlights, front parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

While our favourite engine in the Clio is the more affordable entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engine, the hybrid is a great alternative, particularly if you want a Clio with an <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a>. The system is smooth, quiet and efficient, just as a hybrid should be. Indeed, the hybrid can officially average&nbsp;67.3mpg, which is an identical figure to the equally efficient 128bhp <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris/hatchback/review/n31">Toyota Yaris</a>.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/clio/hatchback/review/n97">Renault Clio review</a>

Renault Clio

Version&nbsp;1.5 Hybrid SE |&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£21,995&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£21,995

MG has launched a new version of the ZS <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/small-suvs/n17050">small SUV</a>, and it's now available with hybrid power for the first time.&nbsp;The&nbsp;system is similar to what you'll find in the MG3, but with slightly more power (194bhp as opposed to 191bhp). This means it's quite&nbsp;nippy, with a quick response when&nbsp;you put your foot down;&nbsp;it can officially do 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds (that's&nbsp;faster than the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/captur/hatchback/review/n20">Renault Captur</a>&nbsp;hybrid).

Unfortunately, the driving experience is let down by an unsettled ride and road noise at speed. This is a shame, because the ZS is otherwise quite pleasant to drive.

Of course, efficiency is a key aspect&nbsp;of&nbsp;any hybrid, and thankfully the ZS delivers here with its official&nbsp;average figure of 55.4mpg. What's more, despite its competitive price, it comes with loads of&nbsp;equipment as standard, including a 12.3in infotainment screen,&nbsp;automatic LED headlights,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a>&nbsp;and keyless entry for the SE version.&nbsp;

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mg-motor-uk/zs/hatchback/review/n17318">MG ZS&nbsp;review</a>

MG ZS

Version&nbsp;1.5 Hybrid Icon&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£22,640&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£20,959

Toyota was a pioneer with hybrid tech, and its expertise is proven&nbsp;by&nbsp;its cars – including the Yaris. The entry-level car is powered by a 114bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine plus an electric motor. It's one of the best systems out there, particularly when it comes to fuel economy; officially, it can average 70.6mpg.

Meanwhile, performance is competitive with rivals, with 0-62mph taking 9.7 seconds (the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/clio/hatchback/review/n97">Renault Clio</a> hybrid takes&nbsp;9.9 seconds). If you want more power, there's also the 128bhp version that shaves&nbsp;half a second off that time.

Other strengths of the Yaris include its strong reputation for reliability. In the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/small-cars/n16997">small car</a> section of the 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/reliability-survey-most-reliable-cars/n26137">What Car? Reliability Survey</a>,&nbsp;the Yaris finished in joint third place with the previous-generation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/i10/hatchback/review/n49">Hyundai i10</a>. Meanwhile, Toyota as a manufacturer finished in fifth&nbsp;place out of 31&nbsp;brands&nbsp;in our&nbsp;2024&nbsp;league table.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris/hatchback/review/n31">Toyota Yaris review</a>

Toyota Yaris

Version&nbsp;1.6 HEV Expression&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£22,995&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£22,441

Amazingly, one of the cheapest hybrid cars you can buy is a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/7-seat-cars/n2344">seven-seater</a>.

Indeed, the Dacia Jogger has genuine seven-seat usability, with a good amount of&nbsp;head room and&nbsp;leg room&nbsp;in the second and&nbsp;third rows. What's more, the boot is very large with 565 litres of space with the second row&nbsp;seats folded and in place (you can remove them if you like&nbsp;to make even more room); that's a similar&nbsp;to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/touran/mpv/review/n17348">VW Touran</a>.

While the entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engine is&nbsp;cheaper to buy, the hybrid is a good option if you want more power and efficiency, or&nbsp;an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a>. The system is similar to what you'll find in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/clio/hatchback/review/n97">Renault Clio</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/captur/hatchback/review/n20">Renault Captur</a>; it's a&nbsp;1.6-litre hybrid petrol system that produces 138bhp. While it's very quiet to drive around town&nbsp;in electric mode,&nbsp;the 1.6-litre&nbsp;engine is quite loud, plus&nbsp;you&nbsp;get a slight vibration through the pedals when&nbsp;it's running.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/dacia/jogger/estate/review/n24141">Dacia Jogger&nbsp;review</a>

Dacia Jogger

Version&nbsp;1.5i&nbsp;Hybrid Centre Line&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£24,135&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£22,698

The Mazda 2 Hybrid can make you think you're seeing double, because it's essentially a rebadged version of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris/hatchback/review/n31">Toyota Yaris</a>.

Mind you, that's no bad thing, because it gets the same 114bhp hybrid system. It's also good to drive, with agile handling and a comfortable ride with the 15in wheels fitted to the entry-level Centre Line car. Power is fed to the front wheels via a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">CVT automatic gearbox</a>&nbsp;which, while responsive at most&nbsp;speeds, causes the engine revs to soar and stay high&nbsp;when you accelerate. This is a bit of a shame, because the system is otherwise quiet and refined.

Our recommended trim&nbsp;in the 2 Hybrid is the entry-level Centre Line version, because it comes with a reasonable amount of kit as standard without pushing up the price. The equipment&nbsp;list includes automatic high-beam headlights, rain-sensing wipers, air-con, a reversing camera and a&nbsp;9.0in&nbsp;touchscreen infotainment system.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mazda/2-hybrid/hatchback/review/n26638">Mazda 2 Hybrid review</a>

Mazda 2 Hybrid

Version&nbsp;1.6 Hybrid 140 Expression&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£24,245&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£24,011

The third-generation Dacia Duster has&nbsp;just arrived on the scene, and&nbsp;it's available with two&nbsp;hybrid engines (you can have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-a-mild-hybrid-and-should-you-buy-one/n22776">mild hybrid</a>&nbsp;or a regular hybrid). In this instance, we're referring to the regular hybrid, because it can run on electric-only power at low speeds and for short periods (the mild hybrid can't do that).

The hybrid system is familiar, because it's the same as what&nbsp;you get in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/dacia/jogger/estate/review/n24141">Dacia Jogger</a>, plus it's very closely related to the system you get in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/clio/hatchback/review/n97">Renault Clio</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/captur/hatchback/review/n20">Renault Captur</a>. Officially, it can average 55.3mpg, which is slightly more than a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage</a> hybrid (51.4mpg). While it's a good option, we actually recommend the mild hybrid because it's better value.

The cheapest trim level you can get with the hybrid is Expression, and it's reasonably well equipped. It comes with a 10.0in touchscreen infotainment system, a 7.0in digital driver's&nbsp;display, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/dacia/duster/estate/review/n67">Dacia Duster&nbsp;review</a>

Dacia Duster

Version&nbsp;1.6 E-Tech Full Hybrid 145 Evolution&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£24,595&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£21,875

The Renault Captur is essentially a Renault Clio on stilts, so it's available with the same engines. Depending on your needs, you can have a 90bhp&nbsp;1.0-litre petrol engine with a six-speed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-cars-come-with-a-manual-gearbox/n26678">manual gearbox</a>&nbsp;or an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic</a>&nbsp;141bhp 1.6-litre hybrid. The latter offers stronger performance and&nbsp;managed a 0-60mph time of 9.7 seconds in our tests – that's&nbsp;slightly quicker than the<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/juke/hatchback/review/n45">&nbsp;Nissan Juke Hybrid</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris-cross/estate/review/n23440">Toyota Yaris Cross</a>.

Overall, the Captur is a good small SUV, especially when you consider its competitive pricing,&nbsp;comfortable ride&nbsp;and practical rear seats. Interior quality could be better, though.

In terms of standard kit,&nbsp;the entry-level Evolution version quoted here comes with automatic lights and wipers, climate control and&nbsp;keyless entry. If your&nbsp;budget can stretch to it, we’d suggest jumping up to Techno trim because the price difference isn’t huge and you get&nbsp;ambient interior lighting, power-folding door mirrors, a height-adjustable boot floor and a&nbsp;Google-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment system</a>&nbsp;as standard.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/captur/hatchback/review/n20">Renault Captur review</a>

Renault Captur

Version&nbsp;1.5 Hybrid Icon&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£25,530&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£23,749

The Toyota Yaris Cross is the most efficient car&nbsp;we've ever tested. During&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/real-mpg-calculator">Real MPG</a>&nbsp;fuel economy test,&nbsp;the front-wheel-drive 114bhp version&nbsp;managed&nbsp;a real-world average of 60.1mpg and an&nbsp;incredible 103.3mpg on our simulated town route, making&nbsp;it a fantastic choice if you live in a town or city.

Overall, we&nbsp;recommend the Yaris Cross over&nbsp;the hybrid versions of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/juke/hatchback/review/n45">Nissan Juke</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/captur/hatchback/review/n20">Renault Captur</a>, because it offers superior&nbsp;fuel economy and reliability. It's not the most spacious small SUV, though;&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/kamiq/hatchback/review/n19999">Skoda Kamiq</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/t-roc/hatchback/review/n17376">VW T-Roc</a>&nbsp;are superior&nbsp;in this area, although&nbsp;they're not offered with regular hybrid power.

In terms of trim levels, the entry-level Icon version&nbsp;includes&nbsp;keyless entry, a rear-view camera, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a>, automatic headlights and a 9.0in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment touchscreen</a>. We’d go for Design trim, though, because it gets you some genuinely useful features, such as adjustable lumbar support for the driver, a larger touchscreen and electric rear windows.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris-cross/estate/review/n23440">Toyota Yaris Cross review</a>

Toyota Yaris Cross

Version&nbsp;1.5 i-MMD Hybrid Elegance&nbsp;|&nbsp;List price&nbsp;£26,885&nbsp;|&nbsp;Target Price&nbsp;£25,724

Small cars are not known&nbsp;for their space and practicality, but the Honda Jazz is. It has a&nbsp;boxy, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/mpvs-and-people-carriers/n17001">MPV</a>-like shape, which means the&nbsp;interior&nbsp;is surprisingly spacious. Six-footers will have no trouble&nbsp;getting comfortable in the front, plus there's plenty of space for two adults in the back. There's also a&nbsp;clever party trick; the Jazz has&nbsp;seat&nbsp;bases in the back that&nbsp;flip upwards, which makes it very easy for carrying tall items in the back.

There's only one engine option&nbsp;in the Jazz, and it's 1.5-litre hybrid. With&nbsp;96bhp on tap, it can accelerate more quickly than a 94bhp 1.0-litre <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/polo/hatchback/review/n83">VW Polo</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;128bhp <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris/hatchback/review/n31">Toyota Yaris</a>, getting from 0-60mph in a respectable 8.6sec in our tests. Efficiency is good too, and it&nbsp;did very well in our real-world&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/real-mpg-calculator">Real&nbsp;MPG test</a>&nbsp;but not quite as well as the Yaris.

The entry-level Elegance version is our favourite; it's very well equipped&nbsp;and includes&nbsp;automatic lights and wipers, adaptive cruise control, power-folding door mirrors, front and rear parking sensors&nbsp;and a whole host of safety kit.

Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/honda/jazz/hatchback/review/n17343">Honda Jazz&nbsp;review</a>

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Sales of hybrid cars are booming right now, because they can be cheap to run thanks to their ability to run on petrol or electric power. But what if you want a hybrid that's both cheap to buy and run?That's where we step in, because in this top 10 we're listing the cheapest hybrid cars you can buy right now. And because almost every manufacturer makes a hybrid these days, there's a wide range of body styles to choose from, including <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/small-cars/n16997">small cars</a>, family cars and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/small-suvs/n17050">small SUVs</a>.

It's important to note we're referring to the cheapest <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/hybrid-cars-you-dont-have-to-plug-in/n17700">hybrid cars that you don't have to plug in</a> on this list. That's because most <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-a-mild-hybrid-and-should-you-buy-one/n22776">mild hybrids</a> can't run on pure electric power like a regular hybrid can, with the electric motor helping to boost the engine's power and efficiency instead. Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">plug-in hybrids</a> are too expensive to feature on the list (for now, at least).If any of the cars quoted here take your fancy, you can click on the relevant links to find out more or to see the latest discounts via our free <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals">New Car Deals</a> service. To help you with your buying decision, we also name the pros and cons of each car, as well as list the star ratings for key areas such as reliability, safety and performance.

The 10 cheapest hybrid cars you can buy – reviewed and rated

Cheapest hybrid cars

The DS 7 is a well equipped, relatively comfortable and practical hybrid SUV. However, the pricing is too close to established rivals such as the Lexus NX, and it doesn’t feel as refined or luxurious as that car. What’s more, cheaper alternatives such as the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson are better to drive, with tidier handling and more progressive braking.

DS 7

And the hybrid SUV to avoid...

best-hybrid-suvs-2024-–-reviewed-rated-and-ranked

hybrid-suvs

Lexus

Sportage

Santa Fe

Land Rover

Range Rover Sport

Range Rover Evoque

Sorento

Tucson

Ford

Kuga

When choosing a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">plug-in hybrid</a>&nbsp;you naturally want the longest electric-only range possible, and the Mercedes GLC 300e has just that.&nbsp;

It can officially travel 80 miles on electric-only power, meaning that it tops both the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX</a> 450h+ (45 miles) and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-sport/4x4/review/n74">Range Rover Sport</a> P460e (76 miles).&nbsp;

Of course, that long official electric-only range brings low CO2 emissions and a low benefit-in-kind (BIK) rating, which makes the GLC 300e a brilliant choice for company car drivers.

However, it’s not just about the numbers. The GLC is comfortable to drive and practical, while the interior design (with its large central infotainment screen) presents a real wow factor that few rivals can match.

“It was easy for me to get comfortable inside the GLC, because it seat is set nice and high. This also helps visibility, because I get a good view when I'm trying to see at junctions.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/will-nightingale/n1020">Will Nightingale</a>, reviews editor&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/glc/4x4/review/n17345">Mercedes GLC&nbsp;review</a></h3>

Mercedes GLC 300e 4Matic

The Kia Sportage is popular for many reasons: it’s spacious, comfortable to drive, smart inside and very well equipped.

The regular <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a> version is also a good option if you’re looking for a car that offers strong performance and impressive real-world fuel economy. In fact, we recorded a 0-60mph time of 7.2sec at our private test track, while an average of 43.8mpg was clocked up during our real-world fuel economy test.

Even though the hybrid isn’t as refined as the PHEV version, it’s still whisper-quiet when running on electric power at low speeds. Plus, it’s quicker and a lot cheaper to buy outright than the PHEV.

“I love that the latest Sportage retains physical controls for its air conditioning system – they're so much easier to use than having to delve into a touchscreen or prod at a touch-sensitive panel, as you'd find on some rivals.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/neil-winn/n1101">Neil Winn</a>, deputy reviews editor

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage review</a></h3>

Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid

The previous Hyundai Santa Fe was one of your best bets if you wanted a hybrid SUV with seven seats, and this all-new version aims to carry the same accolade.

It'll eventually be offered in both hybrid and plug-in hybrid forms, but it's the regular hybrid we're focussed on here. It uses a tweaked version of the 1.6-litre engine and electric motor from the old Santa Fe, and while it's not especially fast, it has no trouble in getting you up to motorway speeds and should be relatively cheap to run.

The latest Santa Fe is comfortable, too, even though the rival Peugeot <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/5008/estate/review/n17369">5008</a> feels a little more settled on faster roads.&nbsp;

Space was a big selling point in the old Santa Fe, and the new model continues that trend. Not only is access to the second and third rows fantastic, but once seated your passengers will have more room to stretch out than they would in most rivals. The boot is massive, too – in five-star mode it'll swallow even more than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sorento/4x4/review/n18">Kia Sorento</a>.

“It might be boxy, but I like the various 'H' motifs which have been included in the latest Santa Fe's design. Look closely and you'll spot them in the headlights, tail-lights, even even within the front bumper.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne</a>, digital editor

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/santa-fe/4x4/review/n68">Hyundai Santa Fe review</a></h3>

Hyundai Santa Fe

The Range Rover Sport takes many features from the full-size Range Rover (including its plush interior and impressive off-road ability), but offers them at a slightly lower price.&nbsp;

There are two plug-in hybrid options to choose from, named the P460e and P550e. Our favourite of the two is the P460e, which combines a silky-smooth 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 454bhp.

With its vast 31.8kWh (usable) battery, the P460e can manage 76 miles officially on electric-only power. That’s almost as much as the 80 miles the Mercedes GLC 300e can manage officially.

Even though the Sport is slightly cheaper to buy than its full-size sibling, it still remains a pricey option.

"I think the Range Rover Sport's boot is especially clever, because not only can you drop the rear seatbacks at the touch of a button, but there's also a handy flip-up partition you can use to keep things separate in the back – or to even use as a makeshift seat.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/darren-moss/n1005">Darren Moss</a>, deputy digital editor

&nbsp;

<h3>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-sport/4x4/review/n74">Range Rover Sport review</a></h3>

Range Rover Sport P460e

It may well be the Evoque’s looks that first pique your interest, but it’s a fine car on more objective levels, too.&nbsp;

It’s comfortable, really posh inside and even reasonably practical by class standards, with this PHEV losing no luggage space compared with its purely combustion-engined siblings, despite having a battery that's big enough for 38 miles of electric driving.

The PHEV is also the fastest engine option in the Evoque range (0-60mph takes just 6.1sec), while the hybrid system is smooth around town and punchy on the motorway.&nbsp;

Land Rover’s reliability record remains a concern, though – the brand finished in 28th position out of 32 manufacturers in our latest <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/reliability-survey-most-reliable-cars-brands/n26159">What Car? Reliability Survey</a>.

“While most of the Evoque's controls are now accessed through its touchscreen, at least shortcuts to some commonly-used ones – the climate, for example – are permanently displayed, so you don't need to go hunting for them.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/doug-revolta/n1031">Doug Revolta</a>, head of video

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-evoque/4x4/review/n109">Range Rover Evoque review</a></h3>

Range Rover Evoque P300e

Even though the Lexus NX 450h+ can’t quite beat the Mercedes GLC 300e on electric-only range, it does top the rival <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/q5/4x4/review/n41">Audi Q5</a> 50 TFSIe and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x3/4x4/review/n42">BMW X3</a> xDrive30e, being officially able to take you up to 45 miles.

It can also reach speeds of up to 83mph solely on battery power, and is exceptionally smooth and quiet, even when the battery has been exhausted and the 2.5-litre petrol engine has taken over propulsion duties. Plus, it delivers impressive straight-line performance.&nbsp;

Add in handling that inspires confidence, Lexus's superb reliability record, and an interior that's as classy as it is spacious, and you've got a hybrid SUV that’s a brilliant all-rounder.

“Usually, going for larger wheels on your new car can affect the ride quality. In the NX, however, you'll get a comfy experience whether you stick with the standard 18in alloys, or the upgraded 20in units.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/lawrence-cheung/n23691">Lawrence Cheung</a>, new cars editor

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX review</a></h3>

Lexus NX 450h+

The Sorento's hybrid tech combines decent real-world fuel economy with comparatively low CO2 emissions, while the ride is comfortable and the steering accurate.&nbsp;

Throw in a nicely made and well equipped interior, a driving position that’s lofty enough to make HGV drivers jealous and Kia’s unmatched seven-year warranty, and the Sorento is a fine choice.&nbsp;

All models come with plenty of luxuries, although that’s largely a result of the Sorento being available in one fully-loaded trim level – Edition. As a result, the Sorento is more pricey than the rival&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/x-trail/4x4/review/n51">Nissan X-Trail</a>.

However, it’s difficult to fault the Sorento on the practicality front. All three rows of seating are spacious, while the boot is vast (we managed to fit 10 carry-on suitcases below the parcel shelf with five seats in place).

“Smoothness is something the Sorento does very well – whether it's the way it switches between petrol and electric power, the progressive feeling of the brakes or simply changing gear, the Sorento does it all in a calm and sophisticated way.” <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/dan-jones/n23433">Dan Jones</a> – reviewer

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sorento/4x4/review/n18">Kia Sorento review</a></h3>

Kia Sorento 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid

The Tucson is available with a wide range of engines, including petrol, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-a-mild-hybrid-and-should-you-buy-one/n22776">mild hybrid</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">plug-in hybrid</a> units.

Our favourite of the bunch is the regular hybrid, which is quick, quiet and efficient. It pairs a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 227bhp, while a small battery allows for short bursts of electric power at low speeds, which helps boost refinement and fuel economy around town.&nbsp;

However, the achilles heel of the Tucson is its sibling, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage</a>. While that car is slightly more expensive, it does feel more polished to drive, with better judged brakes, tidier handling and a slightly more comfortable ride.&nbsp;

"While we recommend going for SE Connect trim to help keep your costs sensible, it's worth looking at range-topping Ultimate versions if you're likely to have multiple people driving your car, because this&nbsp;gets you a fully electric driver's seat with a memory function." – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/mark-pearson/n1035">Mark Pearson</a>, used car editor&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/tucson/4x4/review/n103">Hyundai Tucson review</a></h3>

Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDi Hybrid 230

Ford knows a thing or two about making a car that’s good to drive, and the Kuga lives up to that reputation.&nbsp;

In our favourite ST-Line Edition trim, it’s one of the more engaging <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/family-suvs/n17116">family SUVs</a> to drive, with quick steering and a firmer suspension set-up that allows it to follow the contours of the road more easily than the entry-level versions.

The Kuga’s engine range includes two hybrid options: a regular <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a> and a PHEV. The former&nbsp;is our recommended option for private buyers, and it pairs a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack. The system is smooth and easy to drive, although the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/tucson/4x4/review/n103">Hyundai Tucson</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage</a> are slightly quicker and equally as efficient.&nbsp;

Those cars also have more spacious and practical interiors (but only just), while quality isn’t as good for the price.

“Hybrid SUVs can sometimes feel more wallowy through corners than their combustion-engined siblings because of their extra weight. However, with the Kuga hybrid, it handles with such precision that you'd be hard pressed to tell it apart from the regular car.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/george-hill/n23609">George Hill</a>, staff writer

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/kuga/4x4/review/n57">Ford Kuga review</a></h3>

Ford Kuga 2.5 FHEV

The&nbsp;Lexus RX of the early 2000s was one of the first <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/luxury-suvs/n17036">luxury SUVs</a> to use a hybrid system, and this latest version is proof of the firm’s expertise.

The plug-in hybrid RX 450+ is incredibly quiet and refined, while reliability remains a strong point for Lexus. In fact, the RX should be more dependable than the Range Rover Sport P460e.

While the electric-only range with the 450h+&nbsp;isn’t as long as the Range Rover Sport or Mercedes GLC 300e’s, those cars are more expensive to buy outright. There’s also a more affordable regular <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a> version available, which is a good choice if you don’t have easy access to a charger.

“I enjoyed how serene the RX is, because there's hardly any wind or road noise on the motorway. Plus, when its petrol engine needs to wake up and take over from the electric motor around town, the changeover is seamless.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/claire-evans/n1100">Claire Evans</a>, consumer editor

&nbsp;

<h3 dir="ltr">Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/review/n137">Lexus RX review</a></h3>

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

Lexus RX

Not so long ago, if you wanted an SUV, it was almost always best to go for a diesel engine. However, changes to the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/company-car-tax-calculator">company car tax</a> system, combined with improvements in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/hybrid-cars/n17013">hybrid car</a> technology, means cars which mix petrol and electric power are now great for your wallet as well as your conscience.In addition, the number of hybrid SUVs available has exploded in the last couple of years. But this increased choice can be a negative as well as a positive, making it harder to decide what to go for.So, here we count down our current top 10 across both regular hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs, starting with the our experienced team of road testers has determined to be the class leader – the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/glc/4x4/review/n17345">Mercedes GLC</a> 300e – and reveal the model that's best avoided. As well as our reviews, we'll show you the best hybrid SUV deals available for these models.

While the prices you'll see for models below reflect the car's range as a whole, you can click through to the relevant page on our free <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals">New Car Deals</a> service to see the price for the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models we're looking at here.Learn more about <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/how-we-test-cars/n17596">how we test cars</a>

Best hybrid SUVs 2024 – reviewed, rated and ranked

hybrid SUVs

the-best-plug-in-hybrid-company-cars-you-can-get-in-the-uk

If you're getting a new fleet car, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can make a lot of sense. After all, you'll save on company car tax compared with a non-PHEV petrol or diesel but won't have the charging worries electric car drivers can face.

Car manufacturers have been quick to recognise this, and plenty of traditional company car favourites are now available in plug-in form – the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes C-Class, for example.

So, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">PHEV</a>&nbsp;model should you choose as your next company car? That's what this top 10 will tell you. Our list includes SUVs as well as more traditional saloon cars&nbsp;to reflect the huge popularity of higher-riding models.

Read on to see which plug-in hybrids we recommend to company car drivers...

Slideshow story: please click the right-hand arrow above to continue, or simply scroll down if you’re reading on your mobile

The best plug-in hybrid company cars you can get in the UK

Citroën is probably most famous for its quirky design, and the latest cars from the brand live up to this tradition. In fact, it&nbsp;tends to keep away from sportiness altogether and instead tries to put comfort first.

Value (but not cheapness) is also key to the appeal of most Citroëns. And the company’s range includes everything from a tiny EV (the Ami) through to the C3 small hatchback and&nbsp;the large van-based&nbsp;Spacetourer MPV.

Its range of SUVs are all badged Aircross, and like the rest of its range place emphasis on comfort, not speed.

CITROEN

C5 X

What Car? rating&nbsp;4/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;Plus 
List price&nbsp;£38,165 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£76.33 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£152.67

The C5 X is the only&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/estate-cars/n16998">estate car</a>&nbsp;on this list, and also quite an unusual one&nbsp;because of its slightly raised ride height and focus on comfort rather than sportiness.&nbsp;If that appeals, it's a great choice. Indeed, with a system called Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, Advanced Comfort Seats and a noise-blocking laminated windscreen, it's perfectly suited to long stints of motorway driving.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/c5-x/estate/review/n24291">Citroën C5 X review</a>

10: Citroën C5 X 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid 225

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Competitively priced</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Plush ride</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Upmarket interior</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Roly-poly handling</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Boot could be larger</li>
	<li dir="ltr">PHEV sits in a higher tax band than some rivals</li>
</ul>

Land Rover is synonymous with SUVs, and especially with the Defender – the rugged runabout that has seen service in war zones across the world, but also as part of the Queen’s personal garage.

If off-road prowess is one of Land Rover’s core values, though, the other is luxury. Indeed, the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Velar are among the best luxury SUVs you can buy.

The Discovery, meanwhile, is a practical rival for the Audi Q7 and BMW X5, while the stylish Evoque (which is available as a three-door convertible as well as a traditional SUV) goes head to head with Audi’s Q3 and BMW’s X1.

In the coming years, we’ll see a new road-biased ‘Road Rover’ as well as an all-new Defender.

LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

What Car? rating&nbsp;5/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;S 
List price&nbsp;£48,945 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£97.92 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£195.75

The Evoque lets you tap into the indulgent feel, high interior quality and famed off-road ability of a full-size&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover/4x4/review/n17353">Range Rover</a>&nbsp;on a more modest scale and budget. PHEV tech suits it well too, allowing you to drive near-silently around town, with a smooth switch to petrol power when required. You'll also appreciate the excellent driving position and superb ride comfort when you're out on the road on business.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-evoque/4x4/review/n109">Range Rover Evoque review</a>

9: Range Rover Evoque P300e

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Great driving position</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Well-equipped</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Slow depreciation</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Limited boot space</li>
	<li dir="ltr">So-so fuel economy and emissions</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Land Rover's reliability record</li>
</ul>

Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV are all common - yet upmarket - sights on UK roads.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

What Car? rating&nbsp;4/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;Sport 
List price&nbsp;£36,345 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£48.50 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£96.92

The A3 has long been one of the best family cars you can buy, and Audi has integrated PHEV technology into the model extremely well, making it a great choice if you're looking for a smart and wieldy company car. You get a superb interior, sharp handling, brisk performance and an excellent driving position.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a3/hatchback/review/n77">Audi A3 Sportback review</a>

8: Audi A3 Sportback 40 TFSIe

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Sharp handling</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Excellent driving position</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Strong and frugal engines, including the excellent plug-in hybrid</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Interior quality is good but could be better</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Fiddly infotainment system</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Audi's unimpressive reliability record</li>
</ul>

Buyers seeking value for money should have Kia towards the top of their shopping list.

Although once a niche brand in the UK, today Kia outsells many more established brands, helped by its market-leading seven-year warranty and a strong reputation for reliability; in fact, Kia regularly finishes towards the top of our reliability surveys.

There are plenty of models to choose from, too, ranging from the small Picanto city car to the Ceed family hatchback and the Sorento large SUV. The Picanto was the first Kia to win its class at the What Car? Car of the Year awards.

SPORTAGE

What Car? rating&nbsp;5/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;GT-Line 
List price&nbsp;£40,520 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£54 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£108

The Sportage is our current favourite family SUV and is one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/the-most-popular-company-cars-in-the-uk/n26284">most popular company cars</a>&nbsp;out there, so it's a very solid choice. For a modest salary sacrifice you'll be getting a comfortable motorway companion that also offers great driver and passenger space, and a big boot. The interior is smart and feels solidly put together with plenty of tech, and Kia has a strong&nbsp;reliability record.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage review</a>

7: Kia Sportage 1.6T GDi 248 PHEV

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Lower-spec models are great value</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Smart interior</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Generous rear leg room and boot space</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Rear head room compromised with panoramic roof</li>
	<li dir="ltr">No clever rear seat functions</li>
</ul>

What Car? rating&nbsp;5/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;Sport 
List price&nbsp;£46,930 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£93.83 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£187.75

You could call the 3 Series the classic exec company car, so it's no surprise there's a PHEV version to tap into&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/how-to-keep-your-company-car-tax-bill-low/n22614">BIK tax savings</a>. The model's big strength is performance and handling – it's a fun car to drive between meetings. You also get a class-leading infotainment system, which lets you dial up selections on the touchscreen with a rotary controller.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91">BMW 3 Series review</a>

6: BMW 3 Series 330e

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Brilliant fun to drive</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Class-leading infotainment system</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Great range of engines</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Ride is rather firm – particularly in M Sport versions</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Not as well finished inside as an Audi A4</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Voice command or fiddly touchscreen only way to adjust climate control</li>
</ul>

What Car? rating&nbsp;4/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;450h+ 
List price&nbsp;£54,895 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£73.17 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£146.42

Lexus has gone all-in on hybrid tech with the NX (you can get a regular hybrid as well as a PHEV), and that focus was rewarded at our&nbsp;2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/awards/new-car-awards">Car of the Year awards</a>&nbsp;with the Best Plug-in Hybrid&nbsp;title. Along with its high-quality interior, good driving manners and decent practicality, the NX also offers rock-solid Lexus dependability.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX review</a>

5: Lexus NX 450h+

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Strong performance</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Promise of stellar reliability</li>
	<li dir="ltr">PHEV has an impressive electric range</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Petrol engine isn't the smoothest</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Choppy high-speed ride on F Sport versions</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Takumi versions are pricey</li>
</ul>

E CLASS

What Car? rating&nbsp;4/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;AMG Line Advanced 
List price&nbsp;£67,965 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£56.67 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£113.25

Our road testers describe the latest E-Class as "spacious, comfortable and easy to drive" – and all three will be great news if you spend lots of time on the road&nbsp;while also needing family practicality at the weekends. The PHEV version is quick – with 0-62mph&nbsp;in 6.5 seconds – and can officially manage more than 70 miles on electricity alone (the real-world distance will be much less, though).

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/saloon/review/n17174">Mercedes E-Class review</a>

4: Mercedes E-Class E300e

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Spacious and sumptuous interior</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Impressive infotainment system</li>
	<li dir="ltr">PHEV's class-leading electric range</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">No air suspension or rear-wheel steering in UK</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Boot space in PHEV is compromised</li>
</ul>

What Car? rating&nbsp;5/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;M Sport 
List price&nbsp;£80,780 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£107.67 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£215.42

The X5 will cost you a fair bit more in BIK tax than the GLC listed above, but if luxury is your top priority, this is likely to be the PHEV SUV choice to make. It drives incredibly well for such a big car, and is very quick – we managed 0-62mph in less than five seconds. The interior is exquisite and the boot has 500 litres of storage and a&nbsp;handy split tailgate (although unlike non-PHEV versions, you can't have the xDrive50e with seven seats).

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x5/4x4/review/n38">BMW X5 review</a>

3: BMW X5 xDrive50e

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Fantastic plug-in hybrid version</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Great to drive</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Classy, well-designed interior</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Wide standard tyres generate road noise at speed</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Third row of seats costs extra</li>
	<li dir="ltr">There are more spacious and practical rivals</li>
</ul>

What Car? rating&nbsp;4/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;Urban Edition 
List price&nbsp;£58,655 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£48.92 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£97.75

Like the closely related C-Class, the GLC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/family-suvs/n17116">family SUV</a>&nbsp;gets rear air suspension on PHEV versions to cope with the extra battery weight, and it does a good job of keeping you comfortable over most road surfaces. Again like the C-Class, the electric-only range is excellent, so you get a lot of car for not too much tax. Plus, it's a practical choice if you often use your company car for family days out.

2: Mercedes GLC 300e

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Well equipped</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Plug-in hybrid has impressive electric range</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Spacious interior</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Slightly firmer ride than rivals</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Stylish interior doesn't feel the most sturdy</li>
</ul>

C CLASS

What Car? rating&nbsp;5/5 
Cheapest version for BIK tax&nbsp;AMG Line 
List price&nbsp;£51,970 
Monthly BIK tax at 20%&nbsp;£69.33 
Monthly BIK tax at 40%&nbsp;£138.58

The Mercedes C300e is the&nbsp;best PHEV company car in the UK right now because it's&nbsp;an excellent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/executive-cars/n2004">executive car</a>&nbsp;in its own right, has a class-leading electric-only range and integrates plug-in hybrid tech seamlessly. With rear air suspension as standard, it rides as well as non-plug-in versions, and performance is brisk, with 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds. If you practically live on motorways, the C300e is very hard to beat.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/c-class/saloon/review/n70">Mercedes C-Class review</a>

1: Mercedes C-Class C300e

<h3 dir="ltr">Pros</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Plug-in hybrid has an impressive ride</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Fuel economy and emissions compare well with rivals</li>
	<li dir="ltr">C300e has a very low company car tax rate</li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cons</h3>

<ul>
	<li dir="ltr">Disappointing interior quality</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Not as much fun to drive as a BMW 3 Series</li>
	<li dir="ltr">Some road noise</li>
</ul>

<hr />
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-company-cars/n22605">Read more: The best company cars</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/class/company-cars">Read more fleet and company car advice</a>

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Usefully long electric-only range</li> <li>Exceedingly frugal</li> <li>Cheap company car tax rates</li> <li>Smooth switching between electric and petrol power</li></ul>

If you're not ready to commit to a fully electric vehicle&nbsp;but have the capacity to charge your car at home or at work, a plug-in hybrid could be the perfect compromise. Electric batteries paired with a petrol or diesel&nbsp;engine means you'll never be left short of charge&nbsp;but can capitalise on cheap running costs, thanks to a surprisingly long electric-only range.

There's plenty of choice, too, whether you're after a sporty saloon like the BMW 3 Series, the 330e variant of which providing up to 36 miles of electric-only driving on a full charge, or a large load-lugging large SUV, including the Volvo XC90 T8, which claims an extraordinary&nbsp;113mpg.

Throw in competent handling and driving prowess, despite the added weight of the electric batteries, and a plug-in hybrid&nbsp;makes a compelling case for frugal buyers.&nbsp;

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