The Benefits of Buying a Hybrid Car in the UK

Hybrid cars have become increasingly popular in the UK over the past few years due to the increase of electric cars on our roads. Combining an electric motor with a petrol or diesel engine, hybrids offer the best of both worlds - lower emissions than petrol or diesel cars without the range anxiety associated with fully electric vehicles. 

If you’re thinking about buying a hybrid vehicle, here are the top 10 benefits of buying a hybrid car :

1. Lower emissions - Hybrids have significantly less CO2 than equivalent petrol or diesel cars. Plug-in hybrids that can be charged from the mains produce extremely low emissions when running in electric mode. This helps improve local air quality and reduces your carbon footprint.

2. Cheaper to run - Hybrids cars are very fuel efficient compared to petrol or diesel equivalents. The electric motor provides extra power when accelerating and allows the engine to run at optimum efficiency. This means you'll spend less on fuel over time.

3. Tax incentives - Hybrid cars attract lower rates of car tax. Plug-in hybrids are eligible for even bigger discounts thanks to their ultra-low emissions. This can save you hundreds of pounds per year.

4. Reduced London congestion charge - Hybrid emissions standards qualify for discounts on the London congestion charge. Some plug-in hybrids are even exempt from the charge completely. This provides significant savings if you are driving in London.

5. Access to bus lanes - In some parts of the UK, hybrid cars are allowed to use bus lanes. This can help you avoid traffic jams and get to your destination quicker. Always check local restrictions first.

6. Government grants - Plug-in hybrids were previously eligible for a government grant up to £2500. While this grant has now ended, some local areas still offer incentives for purchasing hybrids and electric cars.

7. Lower benefit-in-kind tax - If you’re thinking about a hybrid company car, it will attract a lower benefit-in-kind tax rate compared to petrol or diesel cars. This can significantly reduce your tax bill if you have a hybrid as a company car.

8. Smooth, quiet driving - Hybrid cars switch between electric, petrol or diesel power seamlessly. This provides responsive acceleration along with quiet running in electric mode. The overall driving experience is smooth and refined, with minimal cabin noise.

9. Reduced maintenance - Hybrids have fewer moving parts than conventional engines. The brakes last longer too thanks to regenerative braking by the electric motor. Less wear and tear means lower maintenance costs, a win win if you ask us!

10. Reliability - Hybrid technology has proven very reliable over years of real-world use. Regenerative braking recharges the battery, so the battery also lasts longer than in electric cars. Hybrids have excellent reliability records.

Now we’ve spoken about the benefits of owning a hybrid car, you might be thinking ‘What hybrid car do I buy?’.

Here are 5 of the best hybrid models currently available on the market

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius pioneered hybrid technology and remains one of the most popular options. Now in its fourth generation, the Prius combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver ultra-low emissions of around 70g/km CO2. Real-world fuel economy can easily top 80mpg. The Prius is a recognisable shape and offers reasonable practicality with five seats and hatchback luggage room. Overall it represents an affordable way to make the switch to hybrid motoring.

Kia Niro

The Kia Niro crossover SUV shows that hybrid cars don't have to be boring or small. The Niro looks great inside and out while providing height and space. The hybrid powertrain blends a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for CO2 emissions from 84g/km and up to 58mpg fuel economy. The Niro is compelling value next to pricier SUV hybrids.

BMW 330e

For buyers looking for hybrid performance, the BMW 330e plug-in hybrid is a great choice. Combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, the 330e produces a combined 252bhp with 0-62mph taking just 5.9 seconds. Emissions are from 32g/km and the 330e can drive up to 37 miles on electric power alone.

Volvo XC90 T8

The Volvo XC90 SUV shows hybrid technology can suit large, luxury models. The T8 twin-engine plug-in hybrid makes a 303bhp petrol engine with an 87bhp electric motor for punchy performance. Emissions start from 49g/km with an all-electric range of up to 29 miles. The XC90 T8 offers seven-seat practicality, luxury and cutting-edge Swedish style and safety.

Lexus RX 450h

Lexus has huge hybrid experience and the RX 450h combines a 3.5-litre V6 engine with two electric motors. The sophisticated drivetrain provides 308bhp performance with emissions from 142g/km. Although not a plug-in hybrid, the RX 450h can still achieve respectable fuel economy. The Lexus offers next-level luxury and refinement in a hybrid package.

These models show the diversity of styles and capabilities offered by modern hybrid cars on the UK market.

In summary, going hybrid offers lower emissions, cheaper running costs, a smoother drive and incentives like congestion charge discounts. With many models available, hybrids are a smart choice for car buyers in the UK looking to reduce their environmental impact and save money on fuel and taxes. The market for new and used hybrids continues to grow as more drivers discover the many benefits.