Electric vehicles are becoming more and more common on our roads due to political and environmental pressures, not to mention the public’s need to save money on fuel. With technology moving at a faster pace, what was once a rare concept now has to have a large proportion of consumers and hybrid luxury cars in the mainstream.
It is not difficult to see the complaint. The standard hybrid technology is able to improve the fuel efficiency of various vehicles – from saloons to SUVs, rear hatchbacks and heavy sports cars. Reducing CO2 emissions is another benefit so there is a limit to pure electricity flow if you notice your right foot at city speed. Hybrids also make great sense for private buyers who travel miles or less to cities, as well as users who want to reduce the company’s car tax taxes. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) need regular connections to deliver their best but can only provide a real electric range of 30 miles or more.
How to choose the best hybrid car
Choosing a hybrid car of any kind with a different power-allowed approach should not be a big step that many would be afraid of. As with any new car purchase, it makes sense to check your annual mileage and consider what you will use your car for. If you are a low-mile driver, the cost of using a standard petrol hybrid may be a reasonable alternative to gasoline or a diesel car, but if you plan to drive small distances, standard diesel or diesel hybrid may make financial sense.
Mercedes E300e
The plug-in E-Class keeps everything we love about the standard car – a quiet refinement, smooth ride and a well-equipped cabinet – but it has a fuel economy figure and a huge Benefit-in-Kind subsidy. Share plug-in powertrains similar to the C-Class PHEV, so the fuel option is ideal for short-term normal travel (it will cover about 30 miles in electric power only), while diesel-hybrid is a sensible option for those that cover great miles, and the only thing you can choose if you want a body style of heritage.
Toyota Corolla
Like its Prius that comes with one place at the bottom of the list, the Corolla is empowered by Toyota ‘to charge its hybrid technology for petrol and electricity. The British-built bump is supplied with 1.8 and 2.0-litre models, both of which simply switch between their two power sources and use a car gasoline engine to charge the battery. The continuous flexible transmission (CVT) replaces the traditional automatic gearbox and this aids in using the power of the drivetrain.
Toyota Prius
Unlike other models, the Prius Plug-In has a very different look to the self-charging hybrid model. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but Plug-In may offer a more attractive look to other buyers. Undoubtedly its talent, however, as the current statistics suggest. Its 8.8kWh battery takes about four hours to charge from the home socket or two and a half hours from the wall box.
Hyundai Ioniq PHEV
The Ioniq Plug-In sits between a basic hybrid version and a completely electric model, so it represents something of a standing gap between the two. The recent facelift has added a touch of style to the Ioniq, but this is always a visual family car aimed at those looking to reduce fuel costs. The electric car only improves 59bhp, so the performance is enough rather than enjoyable, but by working hard around the city at low speeds, the Ioniq is overpowered. The ride is comfortable and the 443 litre boot is decent, too.
Skoda Superb iV
For years, Skoda Superb has delivered an attractive combination of space, functionality and flexibility, and the iV plug-in plug adds lower running costs to the mix. Skoda says the latest figures are between 149 and 217mpg, but as with PHEVs, that is a number that will vary greatly depending on how often you charge. In our experience, a
There is now a huge choice of hybrid cars to choose from with every manufacturer jumping on the bandwagon and producing a top-class range of hybrids. Use our list of the best hybrid cars on the market to make your choice. Do some additional research and find the car that meets all your needs.