HYBRID CARS COMBINE a petrol (or sometimes diesel) engine with an electric motor to give you the best of both powertrains: the great fuel economy of an electric car with the range and flexibility of a petrol or diesel car.
Hybrids are appealing for a variety of reasons but especially so for the low fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions. Both of these can be kind on your wallet as well as the environment. The battery packs in hybrids can be recharged by plugging them in or through regenerative braking.
Here, we pick five hybrids and plug-in hybrids on the market right now for a variety of budgets.
Under €45k
2016 Lexus RC 300h, €42,900
An alternative to the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series, the RC features striking looks and a well-finished cabin. Its hybrid powertrain is geared more towards efficiency than outright performance though.
Under €35k
2017 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, €34,888
Look past those divisive looks and you’ll find one of the better plug-in hybrids on sale today. Capable of a modest electric-only driving range, the Prius Plug-In offers fuel-sipping ability and a smooth ride.
Under €35k
2018 Hyundai Ioniq, €34,295
The hybrid version of the Hyundai Ioniq is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder GDI petrol engine with a 32Kw permanent magnet synchronous motor and a 1.56kWh lithium-ion battery. It has a top speed of 185km/h and CO2 emissions of 92g/km and costs just €180 a year to tax.
Under €30k
2018 Kia Niro, €28,995
Kia blends crossover practicality with its hybrid technology to create what many might deem to be the ideal family car. Add to that Kia’s famous seven-year warranty and robust build quality and the Niro ticks all the right boxes.
Under €28k
2016 Lexus IS 300h, €27,449
This sharp looking saloon offers hybrid efficiency combined with a smooth petrol engine. The car is rather practical too as the compact battery doesn’t eat into boot space and rear space is generous meaning taller passengers should feel comfortable back there.
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