Since their appearance, hybrid cars have enjoyed great public success: their dual nature as an electric and combustion car is perfectly suited to both long-distance driving and city traffic, where a lot of time is spent stationary.
Plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV): what is it?
What does plug-in hybrid car mean? This definition refers to a vehicle that runs on both a regular combustion engine and an electric battery, which is recharged via a plug. These cars, also called PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) can be recharged either at home or through special columns that, sometimes, do not require an economic outlay and whose costs are charged to the administrations. Recharging times for plug-in hybrid car batteries vary, depending on the type of battery. If you are wondering which hybrid car to buy in 2021, it is necessary to take into consideration various characteristics: from recharge times to autonomy times when using only the electric mode.
The best plug-in hybrid car models
Considering the PHEV vehicles available on the market, ten models were selected to choose the best plug-in hybrid car, evaluating both the mileage that can be driven in full electric mode, as well as cost and model. Indeed, to determine the best plug-in hybrid for you, the tastes and needs of each individual or family member who uses the car for short or long trips should not be underestimated.
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 Tsi eHybrid
For those seeking a sedan with a modern and attractive design, perfect both in the city and on the road, the Golf 1.4 Tsi eHybrid is definitely worth considering. Priced at around €40,000, the German car offers great reliability, featuring a hybrid engine with an electric battery, capable of providing a range of nearly 70 kilometers in electric mode alone.
Hyundai Tucson 1.6 Phev
The new SUV from Korean manufacturer Hyundai, the Tucson 1.6 PHEV, offers approximately 62 kilometers of electric range (about 38 miles) and starts at €44,000. A six-speed transmission and all-wheel drive are available for true enthusiasts who want to drive on any terrain while respecting their environmental impact.
Mercedes B-Class 250 plug-in Hybrid
Another admirable German product is the Mercedes B-Class 250 and the plug-in hybrid family car, like the Golf with an electric range of up to 70 kilometers and a price of around 51,000 euros.
Toyota Rav4 plug-in
Toyota, the world's first manufacturer to make hybrid a true trademark, is updating its RAV4 plug-in SUV, a jewel in the brand's crown, increasing the electric motor's range to 75 km at a starting price of 55,000 euros.
BMW 225xe plug-in hybrid
Moving on to an MPV with a sure aesthetic impact and surprising technical features, the BMW 225xe plug-in hybrid is recognized as one of the best PHEVs. Its rear-wheel drive electric motor gives it an electric range of up to 57 kilometers, and prices starting at €39,000 for the base model are sure to appeal to many.
Audi A3 Sportback Tfsi
Another celebration of sports cars is the model from the German giant Audi: A3 Sportback Tfsi e, this is the name of the brand's plug-in hybrid vehicle that offers two types of hybrid powertrain with an electric range of 67 kilometers and a price starting from 40,000 euros.