Recent world events have resulted in some good news for the buying public: new hybrid cars can now be sold in the UK until 2035.
At one point it looked like the powers that be would turn off the new hybrid supply in 2030. But why should you care?
Well, dear reader, hybrids deftly combine green emission ratings with low running costs and the ability to fill up in mere moments from a pump.
Appealing to private buyers and company car owners alike, the commercial success of hybrids has been quite a thing to witness over the past couple of decades.
Hybrids are popular for several reasons. They can save you money at the petrol pump and even significantly drive down how much benefit-in-kind (BIK) company car tax you pay.
That's because hybrids boast lower emissions ratings, while others provide a useful electric-only range that helps make most of your daily motoring emissions-free.
We rate the Volkswagen Golf eHybrid as the best hybrid money can buy. It’s a car with a truly commendable all-electric range, great practicality and excellent all-round appeal.
Best for: All-around ability
The latest Golf is a real return to form for what was the archetypal family hatchback. It comes in two PHEV forms, the 201bhp eHybrid and the 268bhp GTE, the former of which is our pick of the range - and we think it's the best hybrid you can buy today.
Named the Best Hybrid at the 2025 Autocar Awards, the Golf eHybrid offers a simply enormous 88 miles of electric range in a package that drives well and has slick steering, assured handling and a reasonably supple ride.
And while it’s not a car that will have you grabbing the keys for an illicit B-road blast, its ability to effortlessly tackle any task is endearing, as is a chameleon-like quality to fit into any surroundings.
Downsides include the touchscreen infotainment is a little frustrating to use and hybrid variants get marginally less boot space, reduced to 273 litres.
Read our Volkswagen Golf eHybrid review
Join the debate
Add your comment
Honestly, hybrids still have their place depending on use case. Not everyone can charge an EV easily—especially in flats or dense urban Infinite Craft areas. Also, PHEVs can make a lot of sense for people doing mostly short trips with occasional long drives. That said, yeah, pricing needs to make sense. Paying 8k more just to break even in 10 years doesn’t work for most buyers.
Surprised the Lexus NX450h did not makethe list..