The best hybrid SUVs – PHEVs and regular hybrids rated

We pick the very finest hybrid SUVs on the road, with compact, family and luxury models all making the cut

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by Jack Warrick and Murray Scullion

9 mins read

16 April 2025

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Looking for a practical SUV that balances power, efficiency and eco-conscious driving? If so, a hybrid is the smart choice.

In a market divided between petrol and electric, hybrid SUVs deliver a winning mix of both.

At their best, they offer some of the fuel savings associated with an electric car teamed with the steadfastness of a combustion engine.

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They’re also a hit with company car drivers, thanks to lower benefit-in-kind tax rates, making them a savvy financial pick too.

This list comprises of regular hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs.

PHEV tech works especially well in SUVs, where there’s space to fit batteries and motors without sacrificing too much practicality or comfort. Regular hybrid SUVs are less economical but are typically cheaper to buy and don’t need to be plugged in.

Topping our list is the Skoda Kodiaq PHEV. Our testers were impressed with its comfort, practicality and its 71 miles of electric-only range.

Keep reading to dive into our top picks and we will help find the right hybrid SUV for you.

1. Skoda Kodiaq

9

• Design8
• Interior9
• Performance8
• Ride & Handling8
• Costs9

Pros

Very roomy and practical

PHEV offers unrivalled electric range

Control are well-resolved

Cons

Doesn’t ride as well as it should

Auto gearbox indecisive at low speed

Too many models

Best for: All-round ability

The Volkswagen Tiguan, Volkswagen Passat, Skoda Superb and Skoda Kodiaq all share the same platform and powertrains, but it’s the Kodiaq that really stands out to us.

The Kodiaq is seriously hard to fault.

Illya Verpraet, Road Tester

The PHEV version’s impressive 71-mile (WLTP) electric range puts head and shoulders above most other PHEVs in its class, while its tall, practical design makes it a family-friendly powerhouse.

The middle row is so spacious that it rivals the Mercedes S-Class limo for leg room.

The boot is massive too, offering 745 litres worth of space.

There is a catch, though: there’s no seven-seat option for the PHEV. That’s exclusive to the regular ICE models.