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09/07/2025

Best hybrid SUVs in 2025

Written By Ivan Aistrop

Hyundai Tucson Review: front three quarters

Hybrid power is rapidly becoming the default choice for SUVs as car makers move away from diesel en masse, yet still seek to balance decent power and performance with strong fuel economy and low emissions.

There is now a broad selection of hybrid SUVs, from the milder options to full plug-in hybrid models. The good news is none of these hybrid power options mean giving up all of the SUV traits that buyers love so much: the raised driving position, generous cabin space, versatility, and go-anywhere ability when required.

If anything, hybrid power lends itself perfectly to this class as it adds greater oomph, improved efficiency, and better refinement. What’s not to like about all of those factors wrapped in a handsome, capable car? If you're ready to buy, we've got over 10,000 used hybrid cars for sale, while if you want more choice, we have over 90,000 used cars for sale. If you're looking to save money, check out our guide to the best car deals.


Best hybrid SUVs in 2025

  1. BMW X5 xDrive 50e
  2. Kia Sorento hybrid
  3. Skoda Kodiaq
  4. Ford Kuga Plug-in hybrid
  5. Toyota C-HR
  6. Hyundai Tucson hybrid
  7. Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe 
  8. Lexus LBX
  9. Volvo XC60
  10. Land Rover Defender P400e

1. BMW X5 xDrive 50e 

Luxurious, fast and sporty SUV

BMW X5 Review 2024: Driving Front
BMW X5 Review 2024: Interior

Pros

  • Incredibly luxurious cabin

  • Great to drive in the right spec

  • 67-mile range

Cons

  • Not as competent off-road as some

  • Expensive to buy

  • You have to pay for seven seats

The latest BMW X5 has been around since 2017, and the plug-in hybrid version used to be known as the 45e, which we loved. However, the 45e was replaced in 2023 by the 50e, which is even better. 

A longer electric-only range of up to 67 miles contributed to an enhanced combined fuel economy of up to 313mpg according to official WLTP tests. Don't expect to replicate that kind of figure in the real world, but used wisely (in other words, keep it charged up and do mainly short journeys that can be completed solely on electric power), it does have the potential to be very economical to run.

That said, when the 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and the electric motor are running in tandem, the effect is pretty epic. A maximum of 489PS is deployed, allowing this enormous car to shoot from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds, all helped by the standard four-wheel drive. The BMW’s power delivery system is seamless, too, which means it’s very difficult to tell where the engine stops and the electric motor starts. The only downside is that because the hybrid tech takes up a bit of boot space, you can't spec seven seats.  

Hybrid system aside, the X5 is a very good large SUV. The interior is luxurious with comfortable wide seats, lots of high-quality leather and soft-touch materials. The X5 also has one of the best infotainment systems in its class, operated through a pair of 12.3-inch screens that are sharp, bright and easy to read.

"It’s expensive, but the plug-in hybrid 50e has low running costs and is luxurious enough to feel worth it"

Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor

Read our full BMW X5 review

2. Kia Sorento PHEV

Spacious, comfortable seven-seat SUV

Kia Sorento Review 2024: Driving dynamic
Kia Sorento Review 2024: Interior

Pros

  • Brilliant for space and comfort

  • Very well equipped

  • Backed by Kia's seven-year warranty 

Cons

  • Rivals from Peugeot and Skoda are cheaper to buy

  • The driving experience could be better

  • High-spec models are pricey

The Kia Sorento is a classy and capable large SUV that illustrates how far the Korean brand has come in a few short years.

With smart styling and an upmarket interior with plenty of neat touches, the Sorento no longer feels like the poor man's (or woman's) big SUV. It's no longer a budget alternative, either, but it's still cheaper than premium rivals. You also get seven proper seats, with a surprising amount of space in all three rows. 

Like the smaller Hyundai Tucson, the Kia Sorento is available with mild hybrid, full hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. It's the full hybrid and plug-in models we're interested here, and the former makes a great case for itself, with an affordable price tag, great smoothness, respectable performance and 40mpg capability.

If that fuel economy figure just isn't good enough, though, you can spend a bit more and plump for the PHEV Sorento. That puts out a healthy 251PS from an all-wheel drive powertrain, promises up to 34 miles of all-electric running and up to 176mpg if plugged in regularly. Our only complaint is the petrol engine is a bit coarse when it kicks into life. 

"Some may struggle with the prospect of paying out so much for a Kia, but the reality is that the Sorento delivers in all the key areas"

Phill Tromans, Contributor

Read our full Kia Sorento review

3. Skoda Kodiaq PHEV

Has a range of up 75 miles under electric power alone

Skoda Kodiaq Review: driving dynamic in action
Skoda Kodiaq Review: interior and infotainment

Pros

  • Impressive versatility with bigger boot than before

  • Packed with clever features

  • Generous equipment levels as standard

Cons

  • No third row of seats on PHEV

  • Doesn't represent a huge step on from the old Kodiaq

  • Can get pricey the further up the range you go

Yes, it's true that the plug-in hybrid version of the latest Skoda Kodiaq isn't available with seven seats due to the extra room needed for its batteries, and that might well undermine its appeal for some buyers. 

For everyone else, however, the Kodiaq PHEV will be a brilliant five-seater SUV with masses of space and practicality, exemplary quality and lots of creature comforts, making it an excellent all-rounder and a brilliant family car.

The PHEV system combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and a relatively large 25.7kWh battery, giving it a super-impressive electric-only range of up to 75 miles, which in turn contributes to the overall fuel economy figure of just shy of 600mpg (although like with all PHEVs, don't expect this in the real world). The Kodiaq also allows DC fast-charging of up to 50kW (rare for a PHEV), making on-the-go top-ups faster. The power output of the system is 204PS, which gives adequate performance, and the driving experience delivered by the Kodiaq is one of a relaxed and sophisticated nature.

"We think the plug-in hybrid powertrain is an interesting proposition for many buyers"

Phil Hall, Senior Editor

Read our full Skoda Kodiaq review

4. Ford Kuga PHEV

Fresh look for popular family SUV

Ford Kuga Review: driving dynamic
Ford Kuga Review: interior and driving position

Pros

  • Improved tech from 2024

  • Lots of standard equipment

  • Sharp handling for a family SUV

Cons

  • Not available as a seven-seater

  • Only 35 miles of electric range

  • Interior isn't as posh as rivals

The Ford Kuga is a comfortable family SUV that’s good to drive and extremely practical. The plug-in hybrid Kuga boosts its potential fuel economy to an incredible 200+ mpg, while also giving this family-friendly Ford an electric range of 35 miles. 

Large and spacious, the Kuga feels like it’s been designed for everyday family life. The rear seats, for example, can slide forwards or backwards to maximise passenger or storage space. You also get lots of useful equipment as standard, with all plug-in models getting LED headlights, touchscreen navigation and a rear armrest with a pair of cupholders. 

The hybrid system combines a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a sophisticated electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. A full charge takes 3.5 hours from a home wall box and the Kuga (with a full tank of fuel) will be capable of covering a useful 465 miles.

"Recent updates to the Ford Kuga mean it's a stronger choice than ever before"

Phill Tromans, Contributor

Read our full Ford Kuga review

5. Toyota C-HR

Smart, capable and comfortable crossover

Toyota C-HR Review: dynamic driving
Toyota C-HR Review: interior

Pros

  • Cracking exterior design

  • Comfortable if confined cockpit

  • Decent handling

Cons

  • Engines unrefined if pushed

  • Rather snug interior layout

  • Miserly rear legroom

The original Toyota C-HR proved hugely popular with UK car buyers, and the same is true for its successor. 

This second-generation model has a proper eye-catching design that makes it stand out against rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Peugeot 3008 – which are good lookers themselves – and it drives well, too.

It offers a choice of two hybrid powertrains, with a 1.8-litre engine or a 2.0-litre version. There's a plug-in hybrid model, too, which should give you around 40 miles of electric-only range. Whichever version you go for, you should enjoy excellent fuel economy.

You'll also get a much-improved and very comfortable interior, plus a driving experience that strikes a good balance between composed handling and cosseting comfort. As with any Toyota, you get a cracking warranty that could last up to 10 years, and a peerless reputation for reliability. 

"Its striking design should hit the right note for fans of the original crossover model"

Phil Hall, Senior Editor

Read our full Toyota C-HR review

6. Hyundai Tucson

Cool and sophisticated family SUV

Hyundai Tucson Review: driving dynamic
Hyundai Tucson Review: interior

Pros

  • Bold appearance stands out from the crowd

  • Interior is upmarket and very spacious

  • Wide range of hybrid engines

Cons

  • Automatic gearbox can be a little tardy

  • Ride quality can be harsh

  • It's really not the affordable SUV it once was

The Hyundai Tucson was previously a worthy but unexciting midsize SUV, until this new version came along in 2021. 

Out went the inoffensive-but-bland looks and in came a striking new design language that really marks the new model out against a sea of rivals. 

There's substance to the Tucson's style, too, with a high-tech and upmarket interior. It's pretty practical, and well-equipped, even at the lower end of the range. There's also forward thinking in the powertrain department, with every version available as some form of hybrid, be it mild hybrid, full hybrid or plug-in hybrid. 

The full hybrid (HEV) Tucson is best for those who are unable to charge at home, as it deftly juggles its power sources to provide diesel-beating efficiency. With 230PS, it's reasonably swift, too. There's also a 265PS plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Tucson, which is the version of choice for business users or those who can charge it regularly. Do that, and you could manage to reach the impressive 201mpg claimed figure, with a strong 38 miles of all-electric running possible. 

"Hybrid power means it'll be cheap to run, even if it's not as cheap to buy as it once was"

Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor

Read our full Hyundai Tucson review

7. Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe

A Cayenne with added style

Porsche Cayenne Coupe Review 2024: front dynamic
Porsche Cayenne Coupe Review 2024: dashboard and infotainment

Pros

  • Probably the most attractive coupe-SUV you can buy

  • Also the best to drive with impressive agility

  • Interior upgrades mean it feels modern inside

Cons

  • Expensive to buy and run

  • Smaller boot than the regular Cayenne SUV

  • You're paying more for less

Want to buy a high-performance SUV without the eco-guilt? The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe could be the automotive oxymoron for you. It’s brutally fast, yet emits the same level of CO2 as a small hatchback. 

In true Porsche fashion, the plug-in hybrid version of the Cayenne Coupe is brilliant to drive. The 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine delivers that trademark Porsche engine howl, while the electric motor and battery pack nullify the running costs to a socially acceptable 60-70mpg and 91-108g/km of CO2. The electric range isn’t the best, however, with a full charge giving you just 22 miles. 

Like all Cayennes, the E-Hybrid Coupe’s handling belies its size. The steering is light and accurate, while the four-wheel-drive system provides seemingly physics-defying levels of grip. The interior is also cavernous, which means a family of four will have little trouble getting comfortable. 

"The Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupe is probably the sweet spot in the range"

Antony Ingram, Contributor

Read our full Porsche Cayenne review

8. Lexus LBX

Compact and bijou motoring

Lexus LBX Review: driving dynamic
Lexus LBX Review: interior

Pros

  • Pin sharp drive

  • Strong performance

  • Likely to be reliable

Cons

  • Small boot and tight rear space

  • Pricey with desirable options added

  • Mediocre cabin quality

Lexus has always been a left-field choice in the premium classes, and with a recent influx of ultra-compact models in the prestige SUV space from the likes of Volvo and BMW, the Japanese manufacturer has responded with the dinky Lexus LBX. And it's a little cracker.

It's based on the same mechanicals as the Toyota Yaris Cross from Lexus' parent company, and it's similarly impressive to drive, blending a comfortable ride with surprisingly neat handling. Its compact dimensions and responsive steering mean it's particularly good around town, and it doesn't feel out of its depth on faster routes, either. The self-charging hybrid system (front- or four-wheel drive can be specified) works smoothly and unobtrusively, too.

The interior has the quality you'd expect of a premium product, and there are seemingly endless choices of trim level and interior finish that give you lots of control over the look and feel of your cabin.

It's not the roomiest car, and the boot is rather awkwardly shaped, but Lexus sells bigger cars if you need more practicality.

"It’s well built and looks the part, with a wide-range of paint and trim options allowing owners to get just the car they want"

Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor

Read our full Lexus LBX review

9. Volvo XC60

Stylish, posh and safe SUV

Volvo XC60 Review: driving dynamic
Volvo XC60 Review: interior

Pros

  • Posh but not showy

  • Spacious for passengers 

  • Very safe

Cons

  • Engines can’t offer the power and smoothness of rivals

  • The boot’s smaller than some

  • Safe and competent, but not entertaining to drive

Volvo took the hybrid bull by the horns long before most car makers with its V60 D6, but it's the XC60 that has taken off as a big plug-in seller for the Swedish firm. 

It's easy to understand why, too, when the XC60 has stylish looks, a Scandi chic cabin, and the hybrid delivers effortless economy and performance.

As a plug-in hybrid, you do need to be disciplined with your home charging to get the best cost-benefit analysis from the XC60. For those who are less fussed about this, the company also offers a milder hybrid XC60, but it's the plug-in that makes most sense.

Prices for a new XC60 are on a par with those of its Audi and BMW rivals, but look to the heycar used offerings and you can find a smart Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid from around £25,000. That's a massive saving compared to a brand new XC60, which although it was facelifted in mid 2025, isn't a whole lot different in the scheme of things.

"It's incredibly stylish, packed with safety kit, and is one of the most comfortable cars you can buy"

Ivan Aistrop, Contributor

Read our full Volvo XC60 review

10. Land Rover Defender PHEV

Rugged 4x4 with modern twist

Land Rover Defender Review 2024: front dynamic
Land Rover Defender Review 2024: interior

Pros

  • Impressive performance from such a large car

  • Surprisingly capable on road (and off it)

  • Spacious and well-thought-through interior

Cons

  • Over-complicated infotainment system

  • Some ergonomic quirks

  • Not particularly engaging to drive

A decade ago, the idea of a hybrid Land Rover Defender would've raised eyebrows all over the place, especially among the farming fraternity and rural dwellers that bought them. 

The new Defender, though, is designed for a broader church, from hardcore off-road enthusiasts to tech-savvy urbanites. 

Its brilliant exterior design and upmarket and high-tech interior is a world away from the old model. That doesn't mean it's not a Defender any more, though, as there are loads of practical touches and hard-wearing trim, while off-roading is still a core focus. 

It's much better than the old Defender on the road, however, with excellent comfort and decent handling. And the P400e plug-in hybrid might be the best of the lot, putting out an impressive 404PS, which takes the huge Defender from 0-60mph in under six seconds. But it's not just about straight-line performance, as the P400e is uncannily smooth and refined, two words that no driver of the old Defender would be familiar with.

The Defender P400e manages 27 miles of range on a charge and promises up to 85mpg. For something so heavy and brick-shaped, the numbers are pretty good. It also means you can drive the Defender around town near-silently, pollution-free, and with less of a guilty conscience. 

"It's just as capable as the old model at plowing through mud or wading through deep water, yet it's also surprisingly refined and comfortable on the road, too"

Phil Hall, Senior Editor

Read our full Land Rover Defender review

The BMW X5 xDrive50e is the best hybrid SUV. It blends impressive performance and luxury with a huge 67-mile all electric range and the promise of over 200mpg. Other highly rated hybrid SUVs include the Ford Kuga plug-in hybrid and Audi Q7 TFSI e.

Hybrid SUVs are popular because they usually use a petrol engine and an electric motor to maximise fuel economy while reducing CO2 emissions. Hybrid SUVs also use fuel-saving technology, like brake regeneration, which recovers energy and stores it onboard a lithium-ion battery. The battery will then use this recovered energy to power the electric motor at low speeds.

Many hybrid SUVs on our list are too new to accurately gauge their reliability. However, two linked companies have been making hybrid SUVs for decades now: Toyota and Lexus. Both brands have an impressive reputation for reliability, and their hybrid systems are well proven and recognised as being extremely dependable.

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  • Porsche CayenneS 5dr Tiptronic S

    2025
    10 miles
    Petrol

    £97,990

    £1,678 mo
    Fair price
    S92FZ

    *Representative example: Contract Length: 49 months, 48 Monthly Payments: £1,677.66, Customer Deposit: £14,698.00, Total Deposit: £14,698.50, Optional Final Payment: £29,660.00, Total Charge For Credit: £26,896.18, Total Amount Payable: £124,886.18, Representative APR: 11.90%, Interest Rate (Fixed): 6.19%, Excess Mileage Charge: 14.90ppm, Mileage Per Annum: 10,000

  • Porsche CayenneS 5dr Tiptronic S

    2020
    50,000 miles
    Petrol

    £56,990

    £710 mo
    S92FZ

    *Representative example: Contract Length: 48 months, 47 Monthly Payments: £709.93, Customer Deposit: £8,548.00, Total Deposit: £8,548.50, Optional Final Payment: £29,982.95, Total Charge For Credit: £14,918.16, Total Amount Payable: £71,908.16, Representative APR: 9.80%, Interest Rate (Fixed): 9.81%, Excess Mileage Charge: 19.80ppm, Mileage Per Annum: 10,000

  • Porsche CayenneE-Hybrid 5dr Tiptronic S

    2023
    22,409 miles
    Hybrid

    £67,750

    £936 mo
    NE289ND

    *Representative example: Contract Length: 48 months, 47 Monthly Payments: £935.56, Customer Deposit: £10,162.00, Total Deposit: £10,162.50, Optional Final Payment: £30,423.75, Total Charge For Credit: £16,817.57, Total Amount Payable: £84,567.57, Representative APR: 9.80%, Interest Rate (Fixed): 9.81%, Excess Mileage Charge: 19.80ppm, Mileage Per Annum: 10,000

  • Porsche CayenneS E-Hybrid 5dr Tiptronic S

    2025
    1,320 miles
    Hybrid

    £116,990

    £1,599 mo
    LS126BG

    *Representative example: Contract Length: 48 months, 47 Monthly Payments: £1,598.02, Customer Deposit: £17,548.00, Total Deposit: £17,548.50, Optional Final Payment: £53,532.50, Total Charge For Credit: £29,207.94, Total Amount Payable: £146,197.94, Representative APR: 9.80%, Interest Rate (Fixed): 9.81%, Excess Mileage Charge: 19.80ppm, Mileage Per Annum: 10,000

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