Best Hybrid Cars: Combining Efficiency and Performance
Hybrid cars offer the best of both worlds: the convenience of fossil fuel and the appeal of zero-emissions running. With tightening zero-emission sales laws and the phasing out of combustion-engined cars, hybrid powertrains are becoming increasingly popular. In this article, we will explore the top hybrid cars available in the market today.
1. Mercedes-Benz C300e
Pros: great electric range for the price, little practicality compromise, lots of digital cabin tech
Cons: doesn’t handle like a sports saloon, slightly disappointing cabin quality
The Mercedes-Benz C300e offers a claimed WLTP electric range of up to 69 miles, making it a tax-efficient option for drivers. With a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 127bhp electric motor, the C300e delivers a total power output of 308bhp. It provides a comfortable and refined driving experience, with a luxurious interior reminiscent of the Mercedes S-Class. While it may not satisfy keen drivers, the C300e’s excellent electric range makes it a popular choice for fleet drivers and operators.
2. BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (225e and 230e)
Pros: strong electric range, great packaging and practicality in a compact car
Cons: it’s not the most visually desirable BMW in the showroom, nor the best to drive
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer combines people-carrier practicality with the footprint of a compact family car. It features BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive electrified technology, with an efficient 108bhp electric motor and a 14.2kWh battery. The 2 Series Active Tourer offers an impressive claimed EV range of 53 miles and a BIK rating of just 8%. It provides a decent turn of speed and handles accurately with good grip and body control. With a roomy interior and high-grade materials, the 2 Series Active Tourer offers a comfortable and sophisticated driving experience.
3. Toyota Corolla
Pros: easy to drive, real-world efficient without any need to plug in, and handles well
Cons: hybrid system has limited performance, and won’t do much to quicken the pulse
The Toyota Corolla has been a game-changer for Toyota, combining visual style with strong perceived cabin quality. It offers a range-topping 2.0-litre hybrid form that delivers good performance and fuel efficiency. The Corolla’s hybrid system provides better part-throttle responsiveness and improved overall performance compared to traditional Toyota hybrids. It offers a real-world frugal driving experience without the need to plug in. The Corolla’s self-charging hybrid system appeals to those who prefer simplicity and a car that is both economical and enjoyable to drive.
4. Honda Civic
Pros: loads of space in both the cabin and boot, easy to drive efficiently
Cons: lacks a little kerbside desirability
The Honda Civic offers a spacious interior, a big boot, and plenty of standard features. It uses Honda’s clever e:HEV drivetrain, which combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. The Civic delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, with low noise levels and easy-going controls. It offers a good balance between efficiency and performance, making it an appealing choice for families. The Civic’s engaging driving dynamics and practicality make it a standout option in the hybrid car market.
5. Volkswagen Golf eHybrid
Pros: hits an 8% BIK bracket, has all the usual Golf all-round ownership appeal
Cons: touchscreen infotainment system has some usability issues, cabin quality is not quite what it used to be
The Volkswagen Golf eHybrid offers an excellent balance between efficiency and performance. It features the same hybrid powertrain as the Skoda Octavia iV, with a power output of 201bhp and a claimed EV range of 43 miles. The Golf eHybrid qualifies for an 8% BIK tax bracket, making it an attractive option for company car drivers. It provides a comfortable and refined driving experience, with the familiar Golf quality and reliability. While the touchscreen infotainment system may have some usability issues, the Golf eHybrid remains a popular choice in the hybrid car market.
6. Volvo V60 T6 Recharge
Pros: great combination of size, space and versatility, desirability and everyday efficiency
Cons: hybrid system can be a little uncouth when the petrol engine’s running
The Volvo V60 T6 Recharge offers a spacious and versatile interior, making it an ideal choice for families. It combines a 55-mile electric range with a comfortable and refined driving experience. The V60 T6 Recharge delivers a powerful performance with its 345bhp power output. While the hybrid system may not be the smoothest when the petrol engine is running, the V60 T6 Recharge offers a great balance between size, space, and efficiency.
7. Toyota C-HR
Pros: engaging and refined to drive, impactful styling
Cons: rear cabin and boot aren’t the most spacious
The Toyota C-HR offers a unique and stylish design, making it stand out in the hybrid car market. It provides an engaging and refined driving experience, with impressive handling and a comfortable ride. While the rear cabin and boot may not be the most spacious, the C-HR’s impactful styling and enjoyable driving dynamics make it a popular choice for those looking for a hybrid crossover.
8. Mazda MX-30 R-EV
Pros: Upmarket interior, smart styling, sharp steering, quirky mechanical character
Cons: electric-only version might be smarter for short-range hopping and definitely rides and handles better
The Mazda MX-30 R-EV offers a unique and stylish design, with an upmarket interior and smart styling. It delivers a sharp and enjoyable driving experience, with responsive steering and a quirky mechanical character. While the electric-only version may be more suitable for short-range trips, the MX-30 R-EV offers a range-extender plug-in hybrid option for those who require a longer range. With its combination of style and performance, the MX-30 R-EV is a standout choice in the hybrid car market.
