As car makers continue their efforts to cut their vehicles’ emissions, hybrids are an increasingly popular alternative for buyers who aren’t quite ready to make the switch to an electric car. The best hybrids offer better efficiency than regular petrol or diesel models by combining a traditional combustion engine with one or more electric motors.
While many petrol cars are now fitted with mild-hybrid technology, full hybrids offer the biggest benefits. These cars are capable of running on fully electric power at low speeds, such as in heavy traffic, and the engine will only kick in when it’s absolutely necessary. This can result in some big savings when it comes to emissions and fuel economy.
There’s more good news, too, because there are now more hybrid cars to choose from than ever before. With everything ranging from hatchbacks to family MPVs on offer, there’s a hybrid car for just about everyone. In order to make your search as easy as possible, our experts have thoroughly tested every hybrid car that you can buy in the UK in order to decide the very best.
Read on to see the best hybrid cars that you can buy in 2025. We also answer some frequently asked questions and explain how to choose the best hybrid car for your needs.
1. Honda Civic
- Prices from £35,005
| Pros | Cons |
| Efficient hybrid powertrainGood to driveImproved interior quality | Firm low-speed rideRoad noiseInfotainment system a little dated |
A large part of the reason why the Honda Civic is one of our favourite family hatchbacks is down to its brilliant petrol/electric powertrain, so it’s no surprise that it’s also managed to scoop the top spot in our hybrid category, too. Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre petrol engine that works alongside a pair of electric motors and a 1.06kWh battery. Not only does that mean there’s a very healthy 181bhp on tap, but around town it’ll also spend the majority of its time driving in full-electric mode.
Inside, the latest Civic combines high-quality materials and a much slicker infotainment system than its predecessor. The notchback bodystyle – with a spacious cabin and 401-litre boot – also offers plenty of space for four people and their luggage.
2. MG3
- Prices from £18,495
- Best value for money
| Pros | Cons |
| Great to driveClass-leading performanceStrong efficiency | No reach adjustment for the steering wheelHybrid system is occasionally laggyThe MG brand’s low Driver Power score |
The supermini market is dwindling, but the new MG3 looks set to create shockwaves, given that it offers a full-hybrid powertrain capable of returning over 60mpg, a huge amount of on-board tech and a genuinely fun driving experience. The best news, though, is that all of this starts from less than £19,000.
It’s because of this that the MG3 bagged the Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year gong at our 2024 New Car Awards, and we wouldn’t be at all surprised to see it become a big seller for the rejuvenated brand.
3. Dacia Duster
Prices from £24,350
| Pros | Cons |
| Comfortable ride at all speedsSpacious and well designed interiorDesirability | High boot lipWind noise at higher speedsSo-so Euro NCAP rating |
The latest Dacia Duster is more desirable than ever, but it still retains its appealingly low starting price. It may be budget-friendly, but the Duster still comes with a respectable amount of kit, especially if you opt for Expression trim. This variant comes with useful features including a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Thanks to its cleverly designed interior, this tough, budget-friendly SUV is more than capable of taking on family car duties, too.
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The hybrid-powered Duster is fitted with a 1.6-litre powertrain that’s sourced from parent company Renault and shared with the Dacia Jogger Hybrid, so it’s a tried-and-tested set-up. It shouldn’t be too difficult to achieve an average fuel economy figure of over 50mpg, either.
4. Renault Clio
Prices from £21,695
| Pros | Cons |
| Striking new lookLots of equipmentGreat to drive | Rear space is a little tightNoisy petrol in hybrid modelsSlow pure-petrol version |
On the outside, the Renault Clio is very much an evolution of its predecessor, especially following its latest facelift. But big changes under the skin have brought it right to the sharp end of the supermini market. The Renault Clio E-Tech features a full-hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to generate 143bhp.
The E-Tech achieves over 60mpg and sprints from 0-62mph in under 10 seconds, plus the rest of the package is a marked improvement over the old car. The Clio is relatively engaging along twisting roads, and the well judged suspension offers a decent blend of precision and comfort. Cabin quality is particularly strong, too, and the five door-only bodystyle provides enough rear legroom for adults, and a large 391-litre boot.
5. Hyundai Kona
- Prices from £30,685
| Pros | Cons |
| Comfortable and refinedSpacious cabinChoice of petrol, hybrid and EV power | Not especially fun to driveHybrid and 1.0-litre versions are slowToo futuristic-looking for some |
Although the Hyundai Kona Hybrid’s rivals are starting to catch up, our 2023 Car of the Year is still a top buy. Not only does this small SUV offer an impressive level of practicality for its size, but its low running costs and distinctive appearance also help to make it an appealing family car.
