Hybrid SUVs: What’s Available?

Motoring

Hybrid SUVs: what’s available?

If you fancy a hybrid with more space there are plenty of options

The SUV lends itself perfectly to a hybrid powertrain, with more space for the batteries and hence a better boot. This is why there are so many hybrid SUV offerings available today. We’ve picked out some of the best options available today.

BMW X5 xDrive45e - BMW’s X5 now has a plug-in hybrid variant – badged X5 xDrive45e. With electric range of up to 54 miles, it far exceeds the vast majority of other hybrids and allows for decent-length journeys to be completed on battery power alone. Plus, you still get the premium cabin and sharp looks that you’d associate with the standard X5.

Kia Sorento PHEV - Kia’s plug-in hybrid version of its latest Sorento SUV uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine linked to an electric motor and batteries, and Kia claims you’ll get around 35 miles of electric-only driving. As well as a striking exterior design, the Sorento boasts a well-made cabin that is fitted with a healthy level of standard equipment.

Mercedes-Benz GLE350de - The GLE350de is a diesel-powered hybrid, which is not common across this segment. Mercedes claims you’ll get up to 256.8 mpg combined, which will help with the fuel bills. Plus, when you’ve run out of electricity – which should still give you a decent 54 miles between charges – you’re left with a smooth and refined 2.0-litre diesel engine.

Audi Q5 TFSI e - Audi’s Q5 has proved to be a popular choice in the SUV segment thanks to its premium interior and good level of standard equipment, with a plug-in hybrid version recently added. You should get 26 miles of electric-only range in the Q5, allowing for plenty of driving without having to trouble the petrol engine.

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid - Peugeot’s range of electrified vehicles is expanding, with the 3008 plug-in hybrid one of its latest. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine hooked up to two electric motors for a combined power output of 296bhp. Four-wheel drive means it’s got plenty of traction, too. Peugeot claims an electric-only range of up to 36 miles. On top of this, you get loads of standard equipment and one of the sharpest exterior designs around.

Volkswagen Touareg R - A hybrid setup can be used for performance, as demonstrated by the new Volkswagen Touareg R. It’s now Volkswagen’s most powerful production car to date, thanks to its V6 petrol engine and electric motor combination producing 456bhp and 700Nm of torque. But it remains a practical and well-sized option, while a claimed fuel economy figure of 94.2mpg should make it a little cheaper to run than a conventional Touareg, too.

DS 7 Crossback E-Tense - As part of the wider PSA Group, DS can take advantage of all manner of hybrid powertrains. It’s why the 3008 and the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense appear so similar – they’re essentially the same underneath. However, the DS has a slightly more dramatic, eye-catching exterior combined with a flamboyant interior. Plus, you should get up to 34 miles of electric range from a single charge.