Discover The Top Hybrid Cars

In a best-of-both-worlds way, hybrid cars allow motorists to combine the fuel efficiency of a battery with the familiarity of a combustion engine to zip around on reduced emissions. With a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars on the horizon in 2030, the popularity of hybrids is showing no signs of slowing. In this article dedicated to hybrid power, we explain the different types of hybrid cars available on the market and reveal our top hybrid choices too. We hope our guide helps you make a decision - read on to find out more. 

What are the different types of hybrid car? 

When it comes to selecting the right hybrid for you, it’s important to know what your options are. Here are the main types of hybrid car…

1. Mild hybrid 

A mild hybrid is a traditionally powered vehicle (petrol or diesel), with an internal combustion engine. However, it also has a little electrical assistance from a battery, which boosts fuel efficiency but isn’t enough to run the car on. 

2. Self-charging hybrid 

When a car is referred to as simply a hybrid, you’ll usually find it’s of the self-charging variety. This means that both a battery and an internal combustion engine are present within the car, and can work together to make a huge impact on fuel efficiency and emissions. 

The battery uses regenerative braking to recharge. This is where excess energy generated while the car is braking is taken and used to recharge the battery - no plugging in required!

3. Plug-in hybrid

Instead of charging its battery via an internal combustion engine, the batteries within PHEVs recharge via mains electricity - hence the name!

PHEVs are perfect for those who usually do short journeys, as the majority of these can be done on battery power alone, reducing emissions, but without losing backup of petrol or diesel for longer journeys. 

Discover our top hybrid cars… 

Toyota C-HR

One of Toyota’s most dynamic-looking models, the C-HR features a 1.8L hybrid set-up beneath the bonnet on many models, with smooth gear changes and plenty of power for everyday driving. Fitted as standard on every C-HR is adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking - you’re in safe hands!

Lexus NX 300h

The Lexus NX 300h is a super sleek hybrid SUV, which boasts imperceptible gear changes as you accelerate, and plenty of room inside to make it the perfect family car. 4 driving modes, split-folding rear seats, and rain-sensitive windscreen wipers mean it’s ready for anything.   

Hyundai Ioniq

Regardless of whether you prefer a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid, there’s a Hyundai Ioniq for you - you can find them with both fuel types! With solid build quality, excellent handling and a whole host of cool features, it’s a safe bet indeed. Inside many models you’ll find parking assistance technology, touch screen sat nav, and heated front seats.  

Kia Niro

Available as both a regular hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, the Kia Niro is an understated all-rounder, available on the used market in a variety of trims, so it will suit any budget. Each model is deceptively spacious, with the boot space in the plug-in version being only slightly compromised to make room for the battery. 

Audi A3 e-Tron

If you like your hybrid to be in the form of a luxury hatchback, the Audi A3 e-Tron should be top of your shopping list. This is a model that can switch between the battery and the combustion engine, or use a balance of the two for ultimate fuel efficiency and performance. 

Not only this, but a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox means that it’s as at home on the motorway as it is around town. 

Find your next hybrid at West Motors 

With over 150 cars in stock at West Motors, there are always likely to be hybrid options available for you to fall in love with as you search for your next car. Our selection is regularly updated, so it’s worth keeping an eye on our online showroom for the latest arrivals.