The best hybrid cars have enjoyed an upturn in popularity among buyers recently because they’re a good first step towards electrification, offering lower running costs without the hassle of EV charging logistics. Hybrids cover every type of car from superminis, to family-friendly SUVs, even the odd sports car.
There are different types of hybrid powertrain, too. Mild hybrids have small batteries that help take some of the load off the engine, bringing some improvement in efficiency and CO2 emissions. Self-charging hybrids have slightly bigger batteries and limited EV driving range, they’re generally very economical, too.
Alternatively, there are plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). They have bigger batteries and more EV range – well over 50 miles in some cases – but they work best when regularly plugged in to recharge. The most efficient claim fuel economy of over 200mpg on the WLTP cycle (so long as you recharge regularly), with ultra-low CO2 emissions.
Below, you’ll find our pick of the best hybrid cars on sale in the UK in 2025 in our updated list. No matter what sort of car you need or size of budget you have, there’s a car recommended here to suit you.
Top 10 best hybrid cars of 2025
Best for: Spacious, tax-efficient plug-in hybrid motoring
It’s also one of the most practical choices on this list, with limousine-like rear legroom and a huge boot in estate form. It may not be exciting to drive, but that’s rarely a priority in this class. Consider the Superb if you do a lot of long-distance driving and want to reduce fuel costs — just make sure you can regularly charge it to get the most from the hybrid system. It gets the nod over the similar Volkswagen Passat, due to its nicer interior.
To find out more, read the Skoda Superb Hybrid review
Pros
- Up to 62 miles electric driving range
- Huge interior and boot space
- Comfortable, premium interior
Cons
- Not very exciting to drive
- You’ll need to plug in regularly
Best for: Budget-friendly plug-in SUV for families
However, there are some trade-offs. The infotainment system can be laggy, the driving experience is more comfort-focused than engaging, and the driver-assistance systems can be annoying and intrusive. Still, for day-to-day school runs, supermarket trips and the occasional longer journey, where its unrefined petrol engine won't be stretched too far, the HS PHEV gets the job done at a price few rivals can touch.
To find out more, read the full MG HS review
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Roomy interior
- Seven-year warranty
Cons
- Infotainment system is clunky
- Shorter EV range than rivals
Best for: Affordable hybrid SUV with rugged style
The hybrid setup is among the best in this class, even if it’s down on outright pace compared to more expensive rivals. unfortunately, the Bigster’s interior feels quite low-rent for a car of this size and refinement lags behind most in this class. Its styling might also be too similar to the cheaper Duster – Dacia could perhaps have done more to distinguish them from one another. As such, the MG HS gets the nod – for now.
To find out more, read the full Dacia Bigster review
Pros
- Very competitively priced
- Tough styling and practical cabin
- Simple, self-charging hybrid tech
Cons
- Quite basic inside
- Unrefined at speed
Best for: Stylish, sporty plug-in SUV fans
Overall, the Terramar very appealing and although it isn’t quite as well-rounded as the Tiguan, the Terramar’s standard equipment levels make the Cupra much better value for money, which means we prefer it to its German cousin. There are many good cars in this area of the market, but Cupra's experience at offering great finance means it should be a straightforward choice.
To find out more, read our Cupra Terramar review
Pros
- Sharp, distinctive looks
- Long electric-oonly driving range
- More fun to drive than rivals
Cons
- Firmer ride than some rivals
- undistinguished driving experience
Best for: Luxury with serious driving range
The suite of screens, the fancy ambient lighting and the general appearance of the interior are sure to catch the eye of even the most jaded passengers. However, it’s not cheap compared with rivals, and if you don’t have access to regular charging, you won’t get the full benefit of its hybrid system. Consider the E300e if you’re a business user or want a luxury mile muncher – and also consider the more expensive diesel hybrid E450e if you cover longer distances, and the muscular performance that comes with it appeals.
To find out more, read the Mercedes-Benz E-Class review
Pros
- More than 70 miles of EV range
- Superb comfort and refinement
- Beautiful interior, accessible tech
Cons
- High purchase price compared with rivals
- Needs regular charging to be cost-effective
Best for: Drivers who want great dynamics and superb efficiency
As well as that following the most recent updates, the BMW 330e has a increased battery-only driving range of up to 63 miles, which makes it a viable alternatives for EV advocates who can't escape the fuel pump. Being a 3 Series it also handles really very well, indeed (although not quite as sweetly as the non-hybrid version). Add in generous passenger space, cutting-edge tech and a choice saloon or estate bodies and it’s easy to see why we rate it so highly.
To find out more, read our full BMW 330e review
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Class-leading hybrid efficiency
- Brilliant handling and ride
Cons
- Expensive options
- Warranty trails rivals
Best for: No-fuss plug-in hatchback driving
If you’re looking for a plug-in hybrid that feels familiar, with minimal learning curve, the eHybrid is a strong candidate. It’s also well-built, efficient and easy to drive — ideal for downsizers or first-time PHEV owners. The interior is smart, though the touchscreen will frustrate and infuriate many drivers. It’s not a budget option, but its blend of practicality, low running costs and brand cachet makes it an appealing all-rounder.
To find out more, read our full Volkswagen Golf review
Pros
- Exceptional electric-only driving range
- Well-built and practical
- Easy to drive
Cons
- Infotainment can be fiddly
- Less exciting than GTE
Best for: Big families needing seven-seater versatility in their hybrid
Inside, it’s spacious and high quality, with a premium feel that rivals more expensive brands. Both versions are easy to drive, with a smooth ride and quiet cabin. It's a fantastic family car with loads of space and safety features — just make sure the PHEV version’s higher price is worth it compared to the already efficient regular hybrid. Although it’s very appealing, the Skoda Kodiaq, does most of what the Hyundai does for significantly less outlay, but without the option of seven seats in the PHEV version.
To find out more, read our full Hyundai Santa Fe review
Pros
- Self-charging and plug-in hybrids available
- Loaded with gadgets
- Adult-sized third-row seats
Cons
- Premium rivals feel plusher
- Limited towing capacity
Best for: Affordable hybrid city car shoppers
It's one of the fastest cars in its class too, with old-school hot hatch-rivalling acceleration, which is a bonus if you want fun as well as frugality. This is aimed squarely at cost-conscious buyers who want new-car peace of mind without stretching their budget. It won’t match a Toyota Yaris Cross or Renault Clio E-Tech for interior polish, but if you’re after a simple, affordable hybrid for town driving with strong warranty backing and low cash price, the MG3 Hybrid+ deserves a look.
To find out more, read the full MG3 Hybrid+ review
Pros
- Strong acceleration
- Good spec for the money
- Roomy in the rear
Cons
- So-so interior quality
- A bit unrefined when pushed
- Still an unknown for dealer support
Best for: Easy, efficient hybrid commuting
Add in great handling, family-friendly space and practicality and a generous helping of standard features, and there’s a lot to like here. Just a shame that the cash price is high, although it's more competitive on PCH and PCP monthly finance. On that basis, it's well worth trying one for size.
To find out more, read our full Honda Civic review
Pros
- Great to drive
- Diesel-like efficiency
- Well equipped
Cons
- Rear headroom is tight
- No entry-level model
FAQs: Hybrid car buying guide
What is the difference between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid car?
A full hybrid car (also called a self-charging hybrid) uses both a petrol engine and electric motor, charging the battery as you drive – no plug needed. A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has a bigger battery and needs to be charged via a wallbox or public charger, typically giving 20-60 miles of electric-only range. A mild hybrid (MHEV) helps the engine save fuel, but generally can’t drive on electric power alone. All three potentially offer better fuel economy than regular petrol cars.
Is a hybrid car right for me?
Hybrid cars are ideal if you want to reduce your fuel costs without switching to a fully electric car. If you mostly drive short distances and can charge at home, a plug-in hybrid could save you the most. If you don’t have easy access to charging, a self-charging hybrid is the better choice. Mild hybrids are perfect if you want something efficient but simple.
Can you drive a plug-in hybrid without charging it?
Yes, you can, but once it’s out of charge, you’ll be using the petrol engine more often, which reduces the fuel-saving benefits. Plug-in hybrids work like a regular hybrid when the battery is empty, but you’ll get the best economy (and lowest emissions) if you charge it regularly, ideally at home for the lowest costs. If you can’t charge often, consider a self-charging hybrid instead.
Are hybrid cars cheaper to run than petrol or diesel?
Yes, especially around town or if you do a lot of short trips. Hybrids use less fuel and produce fewer emissions, and plug-in hybrids can be cheap to fuel if you do most of your driving in electric mode, and charge at home. They also offer lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates for company car drivers.
Do hybrid cars save money in the long run?
They can, especially if you pick the right type for your lifestyle. Hybrids typically cost more to buy than petrol or diesel cars, but you’ll save on fuel, road tax, and (for PHEVs) company car tax. Running costs are lower if you charge a PHEV regularly or do a lot of city driving in a hybrid. And with more low-emission zones popping up, hybrids are a smart way to futureproof next car.
Do hybrid cars hold their value?
These days, yes. Hybrid cars generally have stronger resale values, especially from more reliable carmakers (with a history in buildkng hybroids) like Toyota and Honda. Plug-in hybrids are also growing in popularity as more buyers look for greener alternatives to their old diesels. As hybrid tech becomes the new normal, you’re less likely to see heavy depreciation compared to those older oil burners.
Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.
