The landscape of British roads is rapidly evolving, with electrified cars becoming more prevalent due to a combination of political, environmental, and market forces. Among these, hybrid vehicles — encompassing mild, full, and plug-in hybrids — stand out as particularly appealing for their promise of blending the best features of conventional and electric cars. This ‘best of both worlds’ approach makes hybrids an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a more eco-friendly form of motoring.
The Broad Spectrum of Hybrid Choices
The hybrid car market has expanded significantly, with options now ranging from compact superminis to spacious family SUVs. This diversity means there’s likely a hybrid out there to suit various lifestyles and preferences. However, the sheer variety can also make the process of selecting the right hybrid somewhat daunting.
Why Choose a Hybrid?
The appeal of hybrid cars is multifaceted. One of the primary advantages is the potential for improved fuel efficiency across a wide array of vehicle types. This efficiency can translate into substantial financial savings, particularly for drivers who rack up fewer miles or frequently navigate city streets. Moreover, hybrids offer a pragmatic solution for fleet owners aiming to reduce company car tax liabilities, making them an economically sound choice for both private and corporate users.
Top Hybrid Cars 2024
#1 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Best hybrid plug in cars 2024
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid wraps a fundamentally conventional compact crossover essence in an intriguingly futuristic exterior. This vehicle stands out not just for its bold design but for the balance it strikes between innovation and familiarity, appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers.
Powertrain and Performance
At its core, the Sportage Hybrid enhances the standard Sportage model with a choice of two electrified powertrains: a turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid engine delivering 226 horsepower, and a more potent 261-hp plug-in hybrid variant. Both options outperform their nonhybrid counterpart in terms of power and acceleration, offering a more dynamic driving experience. However, when it comes to fuel economy, neither hybrid model sets new benchmarks. The plug-in hybrid variant does sweeten the deal with up to 34 miles of electric-only driving capability, presenting a valuable feature for those looking to minimize their carbon footprint on daily commutes.
Practicality and Comfort
Beyond its powertrain, the Sportage Hybrid retains a sense of practicality that’s characteristic of compact crossovers. The cabin is notably spacious, accommodating passengers and cargo with ease. Its smooth ride quality ensures comfort, even when navigating bumpy roads, further solidifying its position as a practical choice for families and daily drivers alike. Additionally, the Sportage Hybrid stands out for offering a features list that presents considerable value for its price point, equipping drivers with a range of amenities without a hefty premium.
Driving Experience
While the Sportage Hybrid brings many strengths to the table, its on-road demeanor might not leave a lasting impression. Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5, which are known for their engaging handling, the Sportage Hybrid feels somewhat forgettable in this department. However, for many drivers, the blend of efficiency, practicality, and advanced features may well compensate for the less exhilarating handling characteristics.
#2 2024 Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius has long been synonymous with fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness, but its latest redesign elevates the iconic model into the realms of style and driving pleasure. This transformation is not just about making a statement; it’s about reshaping perceptions, proving that prioritizing fuel economy doesn’t mean sacrificing aesthetics or enjoyment.
Power and Performance
Gone are the days when driving a Prius meant compromising on power for efficiency. The new Prius boasts 194 horsepower with its standard front-wheel drive configuration, with an option for all-wheel drive that slightly increases power to 196 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Prius Prime, the plug-in hybrid variant, steps it up further to 220 horsepower. This enhancement in performance makes the Prius not just efficient but also surprisingly fun to drive.
Style Meets Substance
For the first time, the Prius merges its practical virtues with a genuinely stylish design, appealing to a broader audience. Its sleek, modern lines and improved driving dynamics challenge the outdated notion that eco-friendly cars must look peculiar. With an impressive EPA-estimated 56-mpg highway rating, the Prius doesn’t just lead its category in fuel efficiency—it sets new standards for what drivers can expect from a hybrid vehicle.
Leading the Hybrid Revolution
The Prius’s advancements come at a time when the automotive industry is increasingly embracing hybrid technology, with competitors like the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and the Toyota Corolla Hybrid in the mix, and a hybridized Honda Civic on the horizon. Yet, the Prius maintains a distinct edge, thanks to its combination of fuel economy, enhanced power, and newfound style.
Accolades and Recognition
The redesigned Prius has rightfully earned its place in the spotlight, securing a coveted 10Best Cars award for 2024 and a spot on the 2024 Editors’ Choice list. These accolades underscore the Prius’s evolution from a sensible choice to a desirable one, appealing to drivers who value efficiency, performance, and design in equal measure.
#3 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid
Best hybrid cars of 2024
As we venture into 2024, the landscape of plug-in hybrid cars is evolving, becoming more diverse and innovative. Among these advancements, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid emerges as a standout in the realm of family transportation, blending the practicality and spaciousness of a minivan with the efficiency and environmental consciousness of a plug-in hybrid. This vehicle not only sets a benchmark for what families can expect from their vehicles but also leads the charge in the plug-in hybrid segment for the year.
Unparalleled Efficiency and Range
The Pacifica Hybrid distinguishes itself with a 260-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain that not only promises but delivers exceptional performance. In our rigorous highway fuel-economy testing, this minivan achieved a remarkable 540 miles of range, positioning it at the forefront of the plug-in hybrid cars in 2024. This impressive figure is a testament to Chrysler’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of hybrid technology, offering families a vehicle that significantly reduces the need for frequent stops at the charging station or gas pump.
Innovative Design Meets Family Needs
Beyond its eco-friendly credentials, the Pacifica Hybrid introduces the ingenious Stow ‘n Go seating, a feature that revolutionizes interior space management. With the ability to effortlessly tuck the second-row seats into the floor, the Pacifica provides unmatched versatility, making it the ideal companion for everything from daily commutes to adventurous family getaways. This level of flexibility is a rare find, even among the most modern plug-in hybrid cars in 2024.
Accessibility and Comfort
Accessibility is another area where the Pacifica shines. Its sliding rear passenger doors offer unparalleled ease of access to the second and third rows, a convenience that traditional SUVs cannot match. This design consideration ensures that getting in and out of the vehicle is as hassle-free as possible, making the Pacifica an excellent choice for families with young children or elderly passengers.
Driving Dynamics and Safety
Equipped with either front-wheel drive or an all-wheel-drive option, the Pacifica caters to a range of driving preferences and conditions, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride. Additionally, the vehicle comes loaded with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, highlighting Chrysler’s dedication to safety.
#4 Lexus NX
In the evolving landscape of hybrid vehicles, the 2025 Lexus NX emerges as a significant contender among the top rated hybrid cars of 2024. Its blend of luxury, performance, and hybrid efficiency sets a new standard in the competitive hybrid market, offering a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers who refuse to compromise on comfort and style.
The Lexus NX Hybrid: A Benchmark in Hybrid Luxury
The Lexus NX, particularly the NX 350h and its plug-in counterpart, the NX450h+, demonstrates Lexus’s mastery in crafting vehicles that balance fuel efficiency with the opulence expected from a luxury brand. This expertise places the NX at the forefront of top-rated hybrid cars for 2024, showcasing the potential for hybrids to deliver an exceptional driving experience without sacrificing environmental responsibility.
Advanced Hybrid Technology
The NX 350h leverages advanced hybrid technology derived from the Toyota RAV4, encapsulating it within a more refined and luxurious package. This powertrain sophistication is further elevated in the NX450h+ plug-in hybrid model. With an impressive EPA-rated total gas-plus-electric range of 550 miles and a robust 304 horsepower output, the NX450h+ sets itself apart, offering a blend of performance and efficiency that is rare in the hybrid sector. Such capabilities not only underscore the NX’s appeal as a top-rated hybrid car but also reflect Lexus’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what hybrid technology can achieve.
Luxurious Comfort and Cutting-Edge Features
Beyond its hybrid prowess, the Lexus NX distinguishes itself with an interior that epitomizes luxury and comfort. The optional 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system represents the pinnacle of Lexus’s technological offerings, providing an intuitive interface that enhances the driving experience. Coupled with plush seating and a serene cabin ambiance, the NX offers a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication, making every journey a pleasure.
A Leader Among Hybrids
As the automotive industry continues to embrace hybrid technology, the Lexus NX stands out among top-rated hybrid cars of 2024 for its successful fusion of luxury, performance, and eco-friendly innovation. Its comprehensive array of features, from advanced driver aids to opulent interior design, positions the NX as a benchmark in the hybrid vehicle market.
#5 Renault Clio
The Renault Clio stands as a testament to the possibility of combining affordability with undeniable style and practicality in the city car segment. Its thoughtful design, both inside and out, positions it as a top choice for those unwilling to compromise on aesthetics or functionality in their search for an economical vehicle.
Aesthetics That Stand Out
With its latest update in 2023, the Clio has never looked better, echoing the chic appeal of its closest rival, the Peugeot 208, and distinguishing itself from competitors like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Vauxhall Corsa. The front of the car is particularly striking, featuring slim headlights and distinctive vertical daytime running lights that frame a newly designed grille and prominent Renault logo. Although the rear updates are subtler, a revised bumper contributes to a more engaging and interesting overall appearance.
Interior Design and Comfort
Inside, the Clio raises the bar for what drivers can expect from an affordable city car. Top-spec models boast a profile-orientated infotainment display and newly designed climate control buttons, enhancing the cabin’s premium feel. Despite some lower-quality plastics revealing the Clio’s economical price point, the interior is predominantly finished with soft, upmarket surfaces.
Space is efficiently managed within the Clio. Front passengers will find the cabin roomy and unrestrictive, though rear passengers might find kneeroom a bit limited. Storage solutions are intelligently integrated throughout the cabin, ensuring personal items can be neatly stowed away. However, it’s in the boot where the Clio truly excels; at 391 litres, it offers more cargo space than any of its rivals, emphasizing the Clio’s unparalleled practicality in the small hatchback category.
Practicality Meets Performance
The Renault Clio isn’t just about looks and space; it’s also a joy to drive. Its dimensions and design make it perfect for navigating city streets and tight parking spots, without sacrificing on performance or driving enjoyment. This balance of practicality, style, and drivability makes the Clio an attractive option for a wide range of drivers, from young professionals to small families looking for a versatile urban vehicle.
#6 Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla continues its legacy as a reliable and efficient vehicle by embracing Toyota’s advanced ‘self-charging’ petrol-electric hybrid technology. This integration not only underscores Toyota’s commitment to sustainable driving but also enhances the Corolla’s appeal to a broader audience seeking eco-friendly transportation solutions without the hassle of plug-in charging.
Hybrid Power for the Modern Driver
Available in both 1.8 and 2.0-litre models, the British-built Corolla hatch seamlessly combines its dual power sources to deliver an optimized driving experience. The vehicle smartly shuffles between the electric motor and petrol engine, utilizing the latter to recharge its battery, ensuring maximum efficiency without driver intervention. The inclusion of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) replaces the traditional automatic gearbox, further refining the powertrain’s performance and making the most of the available power.
For those desiring additional zest, the 2.0-litre hybrid model offers a compelling choice. Boasting 177bhp, it accelerates from 0-62mph in a brisk 7.9 seconds. While fuel economy and emissions are slightly affected, this variant strikes an impressive balance between spirited performance and economical running costs, making it an attractive option for drivers who value both dynamics and efficiency.
Technological Enhancements and Convenience
The latest refresh of the Corolla brings with it significant improvements, notably in its infotainment system. The introduction of a 10.5-inch central touchscreen across all models marks a substantial upgrade from its initial setup, providing users with a more intuitive and engaging interface. While the system itself is a leap forward, the standard inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures drivers have the flexibility to utilize their preferred smartphone integration for navigation, music, and more, enhancing the overall user experience.
The Corolla’s commitment to blending traditional Toyota reliability with modern hybrid technology and contemporary features solidifies its position as a standout choice in the hybrid vehicle market. Its adaptability, from efficient daily commuting to more spirited driving, coupled with the latest tech amenities, makes the Toyota Corolla Hybrid a smart, future-ready vehicle that doesn’t compromise on performance or practicality. As the automotive world continues to evolve towards greener solutions, the Corolla stands as a testament to Toyota’s innovative spirit, offering drivers a reliable, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly driving option.
#7 Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson stand neck and neck, claiming the sixth and seventh places, respectively, on this list. Their rivalry showcases a battle not just of brand preference but of minor differences that might sway a buyer’s decision. Let’s delve into what sets these two apart and why they are so closely matched.
Pricing and Ride Comfort
The Hyundai Tucson edges slightly ahead in terms of affordability, making it an attractive option for buyers looking to maximize value. Additionally, its suspension tuning offers a bit more cushioning over bumps, providing a smoother ride that will appeal to those prioritizing comfort on varied road surfaces.
On the other hand, the Kia Sportage demands a slight premium, justified by its radical design and a more advanced interior. For those for whom aesthetic and technological advancements are paramount, the extra investment in the Sportage could well be worth it.
Driving Dynamics and Interior Space
While the Sportage may not offer the most engaging drive due to its compliant suspension setup and light steering, it shines in other areas that are equally important to family buyers. Rear seat passengers are treated to an abundance of cabin space, making long journeys more comfortable for all occupants.
Front passengers, meanwhile, are welcomed by dual 12.3-inch infotainment displays that stand out as one of the Sportage’s highlight features. These screens not only enhance the cabin’s modernity but also provide intuitive access to Kia’s leading-edge tech suite. This includes essential connectivity features like sat-nav, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard, ensuring drivers have everything they need at their fingertips.
#8 Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, a prominent contender in the top hybrid cars 2024, epitomizes the harmonious blend of style, functionality, and eco-friendly innovation. As families increasingly lean towards vehicles that reflect their environmental values without skimping on performance or aesthetics, the Tucson Hybrid rises to the occasion, offering a compelling package that’s hard to overlook.
Power and Efficiency in Harmony
At the heart of the Tucson Hybrid lies a 1.6-litre electrically-assisted powertrain, producing a noteworthy 230 horsepower. This engine is a testament to Hyundai’s engineering prowess, offering drivers the best of both worlds: the robust performance of a traditional combustion engine paired with the environmental benefits and efficiency of electric power. This powertrain configuration ensures that the Tucson Hybrid stands out among the top hybrid cars of 2024, providing a driving experience that’s both dynamic and eco-conscious.
Designed for the Journey
Hyundai has meticulously crafted the Tucson Hybrid to cater to the needs of modern families, prioritizing comfort and convenience for long hauls. The vehicle’s drive is characterized by its finesse and a relaxed demeanor, setting a tranquil atmosphere for passengers. Unlike vehicles geared towards sportiness, the Tucson Hybrid focuses on ensuring a pleasant and smooth ride, making it a preferred choice for family outings and extended trips.
A Cabin That Speaks Volumes
Inside, the Tucson Hybrid doesn’t shy away from luxury. Despite its reliance on gloss black trim, which can be a magnet for fingerprints, the cabin’s overall construction is impressive. The generous standard equipment level and the availability of advanced features like a state-of-the-art infotainment system enhance the interior’s appeal. The incorporation of a 10.5-inch central touchscreen across all models brings a touch of modernity and convenience, ensuring drivers have seamless access to navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, among other functionalities.
#9 Toyota Yaris – A Contender for Best Hybrid Cars 2024
Toyota’s legacy in hybrid technology shines brightly in the latest iteration of the Yaris, making it a standout contender among the best hybrid cars of 2024. Drawing on decades of experience and innovation, Toyota has refined its hybrid powertrain to deliver an unparalleled blend of efficiency, performance, and accessibility in the supermini segment.
Hybrid Powertrain Excellence
The Yaris’s hybrid setup, echoing the pioneering technology of the Prius, features a 1.5-liter Atkinson Cycle petrol engine coupled with an electric motor and a compact battery. This configuration, perfected over years of development, ensures a driving experience that is both smooth and spirited. Achieving an impressive real-world fuel economy close to the official figure of 57.6 mpg, the Yaris sets a high standard for efficiency in its class.
Dynamic and Versatile Driving
Beyond its environmental credentials, the Yaris distinguishes itself as one of the more engaging cars to drive in the supermini category. Its agility and responsiveness make it ideally suited for the urban jungle, yet it remains composed and capable on longer motorway journeys, positioning it as a versatile all-rounder for a variety of drivers.
Generous Standard Equipment
The Yaris further solidifies its position among the best hybrid cars of 2024 with its generous array of standard features. From 16-inch alloy wheels to advanced safety systems like adaptive cruise control and a reversing camera, the Yaris offers a level of equipment typically reserved for higher segments. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard ensures seamless smartphone integration, despite the infotainment system’s room for improvement in clarity and intuitiveness.
#10 Dacia Jogger Hybrid
In the quest for the best hybrid vehicles of 2024, the Dacia Jogger emerges as an undeniable value proposition. With the market for seven-seat family cars becoming increasingly competitive, the Jogger sets itself apart by offering an affordable alternative without compromising on the essential qualities today’s drivers seek in a hybrid vehicle.
Economical Without Compromise
The heart of the Jogger’s appeal lies in its economical pricing. As a seven-seat family car, it significantly undercuts other new-car alternatives, making it an attractive option for families looking for value without the hefty price tag. While the cabin may lean towards the basic side, lacking some of the more luxurious touches found in pricier competitors, the Jogger is anything but basic when it comes to the technology it packs under the hood.
Hybrid Efficiency
Powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine in harmony with electric motors and a sophisticated multimode gearbox, the Jogger delivers reasonable performance coupled with impressive fuel efficiency. Achieving up to 57.7mpg in WLTP testing, it represents Dacia’s commitment to providing economically and environmentally conscious driving solutions. Moreover, the ability to operate in pure-electric mode for up to 80% of urban driving highlights the Jogger’s adaptability to modern driving needs, positioning it as a standout among the best hybrid vehicles of 2024.
Weighing the Cost
The primary consideration for potential Jogger buyers is the price difference between the base petrol model and the hybrid variant, with the latter being £3,000 more expensive. This price gap may lead some to question the financial benefits, especially for those who
