the-best-hybrid-suvs-in-2024

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

<p dir="ltr">Not so long ago, if you wanted an SUV, it was almost always best to go for a diesel engine. However, changes to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/company-car-tax-calculator">company car tax</a>&nbsp;system, combined with improvements in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/hybrid-cars/n17013">hybrid car</a>&nbsp;technology, means cars which mix petrol and electric power are now great for your wallet as well as your conscience.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">So, here we count down our current top 10 across both regular hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs – and reveal the model that's best avoided.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/how-we-test-cars/n17596">how we test cars</a></strong></p>

<p dir="ltr"><em><strong>Slideshow story: please click the right-hand arrow above to continue, or simply scroll down if you’re reading on your mobile</strong></em></p>


Best hybrid SUVs 2024 – reviewed, rated and ranked

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Like Toyota, Lexus has built a very strong reputation for reliability and regularly finishes very close to the top of our annual Reliability Survey.</p>


LEXUS

<p dir="ltr">The&nbsp;Lexus RX of the early 2000s was one of the first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/luxury-suvs/n17036">luxury SUVs</a>&nbsp;to use a hybrid system, and this latest version is proof of the firm’s expertise.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a>&nbsp;version available, which is a good choice if you don’t have easy access to a charger.</p>


10: Lexus RX

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Well built and well appointed inside</li>
	<li>Hushed on the move</li>
	<li>Strong performance</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Rivals are better to drive</li>
	<li>Takumi versions are pricey</li>
	<li>PHEV's electric range isn't the best</li>
</ul>

<p><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/claire-evans/n1100">Claire Evans</a>, consumer editor</em></p>

<p><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/review/n137">Lexus RX review</a></strong></p>


<p dir="ltr">Ford builds some of the most popular cars in the UK, including the Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.</p>

<p dir="ltr">This success is partly down to longevity and the fact that there’s a Ford dealer around every corner. However, it’s also because Fords tend to offer good value and be among the best cars in their respective classes to drive.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The company’s huge range also helps; it offers everything from the small – but surprisingly practical – Ka+ to the large and lavishly equipped Edge SUV.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, other highlights of the range include the S-Max and Galaxy people carriers, the Mondeo executive car and the Ranger pick-up.</p>


FORD

KUGA

<p dir="ltr">Ford knows a thing or two about making a car that’s good to drive, and the Kuga lives up to that reputation.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">In our favourite ST-Line Edition trim, it’s one of the more engaging&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/family-suvs/n17116">family SUVs</a>&nbsp;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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Kuga’s engine range includes two hybrid options: a regular&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/tucson/4x4/review/n103">Hyundai Tucson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage</a>&nbsp;are slightly quicker and equally as efficient.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Those cars also have more spacious and practical interiors (but only just), while quality isn’t as good for the price.</p>


9: Ford Kuga 2.5 FHEV

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Competitively priced against rivals</li>
	<li>Plug-in hybrid offers a long electric range and low company car tax</li>
	<li>FHEV hybrid is cheaper than equivalent diesel, yet has similar economy</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Interior quality doesn't impress</li>
	<li>Relatively small boot</li>
	<li>Infotainment system isn't the slickest</li>
</ul>

<p><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/george-hill/n23609">George Hill</a>, staff writer</em></p>

<p><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/kuga/4x4/review/n57">Ford Kuga review</a></strong></p>


<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Korean firm’s Ioniq Hybrid is particularly impressive, having beaten the trend-setting Toyota Prius when we tested the cars back to back.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>


HYUNDAI

TUCSON

<p dir="ltr">The Tucson is available with a wide range of engines, including petrol,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-a-mild-hybrid-and-should-you-buy-one/n22776">mild hybrid</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">plug-in hybrid</a>&nbsp;units.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">However, the achilles heel of the Tucson is its sibling, the&nbsp;<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;</p>


8: Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDi Hybrid 230

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Frugal hybrid is a worthy alternative to diesel</li>
	<li>Well-made interior</li>
	<li>Spacious for passengers and luggage</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>So-so handling</li>
	<li>Ride can get choppy at times</li>
	<li>No sliding rear seats</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>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." –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/mark-pearson/n1035">Mark Pearson</a>, used car editor</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/tucson/4x4/review/n103">Hyundai Tucson review</a></strong></h3>


<p dir="ltr">Buyers seeking value for money should have Kia towards the top of their shopping list.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>


SORENTO

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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>.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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).</p>


7: Kia Sorento 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Seven seats fit for adults</li>
	<li>A massive boot</li>
	<li>Well equipped</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Cheaper trims no longer available</li>
	<li>Hybrid engine isn't as fuel efficient as a Honda CR-V's</li>
	<li>Interior quality not as good as similarly priced premium rivals</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>“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.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/dan-jones/n23433">Dan Jones</a>&nbsp;– reviewer</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sorento/4x4/review/n18">Kia Sorento review</a></strong></h3>


Estate

<p dir="ltr">Even though the Lexus NX 450h+ can’t quite beat the Mercedes GLC 300e on electric-only range, it does top the rival&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/q5/4x4/review/n41">Audi Q5</a>&nbsp;50 TFSIe and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x3/4x4/review/n42">BMW X3</a>&nbsp;xDrive30e, being officially able to take you up to 45 miles.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>


6: Lexus NX 450h+

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Strong performance</li>
	<li>Promise of stellar reliability</li>
	<li>PHEV has an impressive electric range</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Petrol engine isn’t the smoothest</li>
	<li>Choppy high-speed ride on F Sport versions</li>
	<li>Takumi versions are pricey</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/lawrence-cheung/n23691">Lawrence Cheung</a>, new cars editor</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX review</a></strong></h3>


<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In the coming years, we’ll see a new road-biased ‘Road Rover’ as well as an all-new Defender.</p>


LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Land Rover’s reliability record remains a concern, though – the brand finished in 28th position out of 32 manufacturers in our latest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/reliability-survey-most-reliable-cars-brands/n26159">What Car? Reliability Survey</a>.</p>


5: Range Rover Evoque P300e

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Great driving position</li>
	<li>Well-equipped</li>
	<li>Slow depreciation</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Limited boot space</li>
	<li>So-so fuel economy and emissions</li>
	<li>Land Rover’s reliability record</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/doug-revolta/n1031">Doug Revolta</a>, head of video</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-evoque/4x4/review/n109">Range Rover Evoque review</a></strong></h3>


RANGE ROVER SPORT

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Even though the Sport is slightly cheaper to buy than its full-size sibling, it still remains a pricey option.</p>


4: Range Rover Sport P460e

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Offers lots of Range Rover qualities for a lower price</li>
	<li>Incredible ability off-road</li>
	<li>Fantastic range on the PHEV model</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Cheaper than a Range Rover, but still very expensive</li>
	<li>Rivals are sharper to drive</li>
	<li>Land Rover’s reliability record is a concern</li>
</ul>

<p><em>"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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/darren-moss/n1005">Darren Moss</a>, deputy digital editor</em></p>

<h3><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-sport/4x4/review/n74">Range Rover Sport review</a></strong></h3>


SANTA FE

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The latest Santa Fe is comfortable, too, even though the rival Peugeot&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/5008/estate/review/n17369">5008</a>&nbsp;feels a little more settled on faster roads.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sorento/4x4/review/n18">Kia Sorento</a>.</p>


3: Hyundai Santa Fe

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Outstanding seven-seat practicality</li>
	<li>Plush interior</li>
	<li>Long warranty</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Pricing yet to be confirmed</li>
	<li>Hybrid engine not particularly inspiring</li>
	<li>Styling might be divisive</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne</a>, digital editor</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/santa-fe/4x4/review/n68">Hyundai Santa Fe review</a></strong></h3>


SPORTAGE

<p dir="ltr">The Kia Sportage is popular for many reasons: it’s spacious, comfortable to drive, smart inside and very well equipped.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The regular&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-a-hybrid-car-and-should-you-buy-one/n1290">hybrid</a>&nbsp;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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>


2: Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Lower-spec models are great value</li>
	<li>Smart interior</li>
	<li>Generous rear leg room and boot space</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Hybrid petrol engine sounds strained</li>
	<li>Rear head room compromised with panoramic roof</li>
	<li>No clever rear seat functions</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/neil-winn/n1101">Neil Winn</a>, deputy reviews editor</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/sportage/4x4/review/n17352">Kia Sportage review</a></strong></h3>


<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>


MERCEDES-BENZ

<p dir="ltr">When choosing a&nbsp;<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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">It can officially travel 80 miles on electric-only power, meaning that it tops both the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX</a>&nbsp;450h+ (45 miles) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/range-rover-sport/4x4/review/n74">Range Rover Sport</a>&nbsp;P460e (76 miles).&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>


1: Mercedes GLC 300e 4Matic

<h3><strong>Strengths</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Well equipped</li>
	<li>Plug-in hybrid has impressive electric range</li>
	<li>Spacious interior</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Weaknesses</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>Slightly firmer ride than rivals</li>
	<li>Stylish interior doesn't feel the most sturdy</li>
	<li>Petrol engines need working hard</li>
</ul>

<p dir="ltr"><em>“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.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/will-nightingale/n1020">Will Nightingale</a>, reviews editor&nbsp;</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Read our in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/glc/4x4/review/n17345">Mercedes GLC&nbsp;review</a></strong></h3>


Hatchback

<p dir="ltr">DS has only existed as a standalone manufacturer since 2015&nbsp;(prior to that the badge was used on upmarket&nbsp;Citroëns), but it is now the premium brand in the Stellantis group, which also includes&nbsp;Citroën, Peugeot and Vauxhall.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The first DS models were essentially rebadged Citroëns, but more recently its cars are now standalone models in their own right. Yet under the skin, they're still very closely related.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Its models are&nbsp;influenced by the French fashion industry and are designed&nbsp;to take on the ubiquitous offerings of Audi, BMW and Mercedes.</p>


DS 7

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>


And the hybrid SUV to avoid: DS 7

The best hybrid SUVs in 2024 

<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>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

Hybrid

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