Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUVs are an interesting choice for drivers who want the best of both worlds: the eco-friendly, low-cost benefits of electric driving for daily commutes and the long-range convenience of a petrol engine for weekend getaways. This blend of technology means you can handle school runs and short trips using purely electric power, significantly cutting down on fuel bills and tailpipe emissions. When the battery runs low, the petrol engine seamlessly takes over, eliminating the range anxiety often associated with fully electric vehicles.
For many, the appeal lies in the potential for huge fuel savings, especially for those who can charge regularly. With official electric-only ranges on some 2026 models stretching to 70 miles or more, a large portion of driving can be done without using a single drop of petrol. This makes PHEV SUVs particularly attractive for company car drivers, who can benefit from significantly lower Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rates due to their low CO2 emissions. However, it's important to remember that to truly reap these benefits, you need to plug in regularly; otherwise, you're simply driving a heavier-than-average hybrid.
From premium family haulers to budget-friendly options, the market is filled with compelling choices. This guide will walk you through the best PHEV SUVs available in 2026, highlighting their real-world strengths and weaknesses to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget.
The Best Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) SUVs 2026
- 2026 BMW X5
- 2026 Volvo XC90
- 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
- 2026 Ford Kuga
- 2026 MG HS
- 2026 Volvo XC60
- 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2026 Kia Niro
- 2026 Lexus NX
1. 2026 BMW X5
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Far more enjoyable to drive than most large SUVs | Not as capable off road as a Land Rover Discovery |
| Brilliant plug-in hybrid version | Petrols in particular are expensive to run |
| Staggering performance of X5 M | Not everyone will take to the styling |
The BMW X5 has long been the benchmark for those who want a large, luxurious SUV that doesn’t sacrifice driving pleasure. Unlike many rivals that feel soft and heavy, the X5 is gratifying from behind the wheel. The plug-in hybrid xDrive50e model is the standout choice for many, offering impressively low running costs with a claimed fuel economy of up to 313mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 27g/km. Yet it doesn’t skimp on practicality; the high-quality cabin is spacious, with a generous 500-litre boot in the PHEV model, and a useful split tailgate.
Even with its focus on efficiency, the X5 PHEV remains a true BMW. The combination of petrol and electric power delivers smooth and rapid performance, while the precise steering and all-wheel-drive system ensure it feels agile and composed, not like a lumbering SUV. While its off-road ability can’t match a Land Rover Discovery and its prominent grille isn’t to everyone’s taste, the X5 is a superb all-rounder.
The CarGurus Verdict: "If you just want a rewarding upmarket SUV that’s effortless to live with, you won’t go far wrong with a BMW X5." - Lewis Kingston, contributor
2. 2026 Volvo XC90
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tastefully designed interior | Slightly noisy engines |
| Hugely comfortable over long distances | Infotainment system not the best |
| Practical, spacious and safe | Audi, Mercedes or BMW rivals feel better built |
The second-generation Volvo XC90 has been a desirable, capable, and practical SUV since its introduction in 2015. As a plug-in hybrid, the flagship T8 Twin Engine model stands out, combining a powerful petrol engine with an electric motor. The XC90 is brilliantly practical, featuring three sliding middle-row seats and a rearmost row spacious enough for average-sized adults. With the third row folded, the T8 provides 640 litres of boot space, which expands to a cavernous 1,816 litres with all rear seats down. Technology is well-covered, with every model getting a Google-backed infotainment system that is every bit as easy to use as you might expect, and also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
As with any XC90, the T8 PHEV is cosseting and relaxing to drive, only this time it also offers a significant performance edge thanks to its potent 455bhp hybrid powertrain. While it may not be as dynamically sharp as a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne, it handles well enough and its refined ride makes it superb for long distances.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The XC90 has always been a good option for those after a comfortable, relaxing and practical SUV, and the second generation continues that trend." - Lewis Kingston, contributor
Read our full Volvo XC90 review
3. 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Brilliant for practicality and versatility | Infotainment system is way too complex |
| Nicely trimmed interior | Firm ride on larger alloy wheels |
| Good looks and desirable image | Many versions look rather expensive |
The latest Volkswagen Tiguan is available as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) called the eHybrid, which combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce either 201bhp or a more potent 268bhp. One of its most impressive features is a claimed all-electric range of around 60-70 miles, which is significantly more than many rivals and allows for a huge portion of daily driving to be done without using any petrol. The performance from the electric motor is strong enough for most situations, and the transition when the petrol engine kicks in is very smooth. While the PHEV model offers strong performance, its boot space is reduced to 490 litres to accommodate the battery, though this is still a very practical size.
Family buyers will appreciate the Tiguan’s generous interior space, with plenty of headroom and legroom for passengers in the back. The cabin has a genuinely posh feel, and all models come equipped with a large 12.9-inch central touchscreen that looks great, with sharp graphics and slick transitions. However, this tech-heavy approach means that simple functions like adjusting the fan speed are buried in menus, which can be unnecessarily complicated to use while driving.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It’s not a cheap option by any stretch of the imagination, the ride could be more cosseting, and the touchscreen system is needless complicated at times, but as an overall proposition there's still a lot to like about the latest Tiguan." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volkswagen Tiguan review
4. 2026 Ford Kuga
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good to drive, as you'd expect of a Ford | The interior is a bit low-rent in places |
| Roomy and practical cabin | Some rivals have bigger boots |
| The plug-in hybrid is a great choice for company car drivers | It's hard to apply the plug-in hybrid's brakes smoothly |
The Ford Kuga PHEV combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a healthy 225bhp, delivering brisk acceleration. More importantly for many, its 14.4kWh battery allows for an official electric-only range of up to 35 miles, making petrol-free commuting a reality for many drivers. As with any PHEV, achieving the official fuel economy figure of 201.8mpg will take a lot of regular charging.
Inside, the Kuga offers the space and versatility a family needs, with plenty of head and legroom for passengers in the front and back. The sliding rear seats are a clever touch, allowing you to prioritise either passenger legroom or boot space. In the PHEV model, the boot capacity is 411 litres, which is competitive, though some rivals do offer more space.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The PHEV is the star of the range, with a generous electric-only range. Running costs will be rock-bottom for the right kind of driver, especially if you are choosing the Kuga as a company car." - David Motton, contributor
Read our full Ford Kuga review
5. 2026 MG HS
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Amazing value for money | MG has a poor reputation for reliability |
| 75-mile official range for plug-in hybrid model | Underwhelming petrol engine |
| Long warranty | Poor fuel economy in entry-level model |
The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid stands out as a top contender for value in the SUV market, starting at just over £31,000. Its main draw is an impressive official electric-only range of up to 75 miles from its 24.7kWh battery, which is a huge advantage for reducing day-to-day running costs. This efficiency results in very low CO2 emissions of just 12g/km, making it an attractive option for company car drivers thanks to the favourable Benefit-in-Kind tax rate. While the official combined fuel economy is a staggering 565mpg, achieving this requires keeping the battery charged and sticking to shorter journeys. Once the battery is depleted, fuel economy will be worse than the standard petrol model.
Inside, the HS is practical and spacious, offering a 507-litre boot regardless of the powertrain chosen. The cabin provides excellent legroom and headroom for all passengers, and the ride is generally comfortable. The PHEV model combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a healthy 307bhp, enabling a 0-62mph time of 6.8 seconds. While it may not be as engaging to drive as rivals like the Ford Kuga, its blend of practicality, low running costs, and generous standard equipment makes the HS a compelling package.
The CarGurus Verdict: "While it may not be the most exciting SUV to drive, and some elements of the infotainment and safety systems could be improved, the overall package is hard to argue with at this price point." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
6. 2026 Volvo XC60
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Classy styling inside and out | No seven-seat option |
| Strong engine range | Not exciting to drive |
| Practical enough for family use | Expensive to buy |
The Volvo XC60 goes head-to-head with premium SUV rivals from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Its cabin is a masterclass in Scandinavian design, featuring high-quality materials, rich leather, and tasteful wood or metal accents. The dashboard is centered around a large, portrait-oriented touchscreen with a slick Google-based operating system.
For those interested in a plug-in hybrid, the XC60 offers potent T6 and T8 Twin Engine models, producing 346bhp and 451bhp respectively. The more powerful T8 can accelerate from 0-62mph in under five seconds, and has a pure electric range of around 50 miles, making emissions-free commuting a real possibility for many. This focus on electrification does result in a slightly smaller boot, measuring 468 litres, but it remains a practical space for most families.
The CarGurus Verdict: "On a long motorway run the XC60 is sublime, offering a winning blend of comfort and isolation that make the miles slide by with ease, while its easy-going nature soothes away the stress of the urban grind." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volvo XC60 review
7. 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High quality cabin | Expensive, even by the standards of the class |
| Well equipped as standard | Adaptive cruise control costs extra |
| PHEV has huge electric-only range | PHEV versions have a small boot |
The Mercedes GLC’s trump card in the plug-in hybrid SUV class is its exceptional electric-only range. Thanks to a large 31.2kWh battery, it can travel up to a claimed 80 miles on a single charge, a figure that leads the class. This allows many drivers to complete their daily commute and errands without ever needing to use the petrol engine. Mercedes offers both petrol (GLC 300 e) and diesel (GLC 300de) plug-in hybrids, a rarity in the market. The petrol GLC 300 e combines a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor to produce a healthy 308bhp, delivering smooth and refined performance, especially in pure electric mode where it’s quiet and responsive enough for motorway speeds.
However, the impressive hybrid technology comes with practical compromises. The large battery reduces boot space to 470 litres, which is less than you'll find in mild-hybrid versions and key rivals. The extra components also add considerable weight, pushing the PHEV models to around 2.4 tonnes, which can be felt in corners with noticeable body lean. While it may not be the sportiest SUV, its primary mission is comfort and efficiency.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For company car drivers, the Mercedes GLC PHEVs are as good as it gets in this class and should be top of your premium plug-in hybrid SUV shopping list." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class review
8. 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge space and versatility | Disappointingly low towing limit |
| Pleasantly trimmed interior | Cabin storage could be cleverer |
| Lots of standard equipment | Limited electric range on PHEV |
The fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe is a spacious, upmarket seven-seat SUV with a bold, rugged look. For those seeking an electrified family hauler, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 13.8kWh battery. This combination provides a smooth and quiet driving experience, with an official WLTP electric-only range of 33.6 miles, though real-world use is closer to 20-25 miles. Inside, the cabin feels both robust and classy, with a high driving position and plenty of clever storage solutions. Practicality is a strong point, with seating for seven, ample legroom in the middle row, and a generous 621 litres of boot space when used as a five-seater.
While the Santa Fe PHEV isn't designed to be fast, it delivers a refined and comfortable ride thanks to standard self-levelling suspension. The transition between electric and petrol power is seamless, and standard all-wheel drive on the PHEV version adds confidence on slippery roads or light off-road tracks. All trims are generously equipped, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Do note, however, that the PHEV model suffers from a disappointingly low towing capacity of just 1,010kg.
The CarGurus Verdict: "We love the Hyundai Santa Fe, and we were very tempted to give it five stars. The only things that stopped us were the towing limit, and the fact that we’d like a longer real-world electric range for the PHEV." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Hyundai Santa Fe review
9. 2026 Kia Niro
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very low running costs | PHEV loses some boot space |
| Roomy for passengers | Not exciting to drive |
| Lots of equipment as standard | Styling won't be to all tastes |
The Kia Niro is a small family SUV that can be specified with with an efficient plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. It pairs a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an 11.1kWh battery, providing an official pure electric range of up to 37 miles. Real-world tests show it can comfortably exceed 30 miles on electric power alone, making it perfect for zero-emission school runs and commutes. While the PHEV's 348-litre boot is smaller than that of the standard Niro hybrid, it's still larger than what you'll find in plug-in rivals like the VW Golf and Renault Captur. Passenger space is a real highlight, with excellent legroom in the back and easy access for fitting child seats.
The interior is a real highlight, borrowing its smart, modern design from the acclaimed Kia EV6. We recommend the '3' trim, which provides the best balance of features and value. It includes the impressive dual 12.3-inch screen setup, heated seats, wireless phone charging, and a host of advanced safety features like blind-spot warning and a semi-autonomous driving mode.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It’s fairly unexceptional to drive, but Kia’s smart, roomy interior really impresses. It’s usefully more spacious than most family hatchbacks or compact SUV alternatives." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
10. 2026 Lexus NX 450+
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth, comfortable ride | Petrol engine sounds thrashy when pushed |
| Feels refreshingly different from German rivals | Too much body lean in corners |
| Enviable reputation for reliability | Rear-seat area is a little dark |
The Lexus NX 450h+ is the brand's first plug-in hybrid, pairing a 2.5-litre petrol engine with two electric motors to deliver a combined 309bhp and all-wheel drive. This powertrain gives it a brisk 0-62mph time of 6.3 seconds and an impressive all-electric range of up to 47 miles, making it a strong contender against rivals like the Volvo XC60 and Audi Q5. The driving experience is very relaxing, with a smooth, quiet ride that effortlessly absorbs road imperfections. However, the petrol engine can sound strained under hard acceleration, which slightly detracts from the otherwise serene character of the car.
Inside, the NX is a showcase of modern technology and thoughtful practicality. Higher-spec models feature a large 14-inch HD touchscreen that is tilted towards the driver for ease of use, a significant improvement over the previous generation's touchpad system. Wireless Apple CarPlay is standard, though Android Auto requires a wired connection. When it comes to practicality, the NX 450h+ offers a generous 521 litres of boot space, the same as its non-PHEV counterparts, which is a rare feat in the plug-in hybrid SUV class.
The CarGurus Verdict: "While most of its rivals attempt to show off their luxury credentials with a solid and weighty feel, and by flinging bling at the exteriors and interiors of their models, the Lexus instead concentrates on feeling like a well-crafted, precisely honed tool." - Matt Rigby, contributor
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV?
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV combines a traditional petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. Unlike a regular hybrid, a PHEV's larger battery can be charged by plugging it into an external power source, like a home wall outlet or a public charging station. This allows the vehicle to travel a significant distance—often between 25 and 80 miles—on pure electric power before the conventional engine takes over.
What are the main benefits of a PHEV SUV?
The primary advantages of a PHEV SUV are lower running costs and reduced emissions, especially if you can complete most of your daily driving on electric power. They offer the quiet, smooth ride of an electric vehicle for short trips and the flexibility and long-range capability of a conventional car for longer journeys, without the range anxiety associated with fully electric cars. For company car drivers, PHEVs are particularly attractive due to their low CO2 emissions, which qualify them for lower Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rates.
Are PHEV SUVs cheaper to run?
PHEV SUVs can be significantly cheaper to run than their petrol or diesel counterparts, but it depends heavily on your usage. If you have a short commute and can charge the vehicle regularly (ideally overnight at home on a cheaper electricity tariff), your fuel savings can be substantial. However, if you don't plug it in, you're essentially carrying the extra weight of a depleted battery, which can lead to worse fuel economy than a standard hybrid or even a conventional petrol car. Real-world fuel consumption is often higher than official figures suggest, but savings are still possible compared to an equivalent petrol model.
How long does it take to charge a PHEV SUV?
Charging time for a PHEV depends on the battery size and the type of charger used.
- Level 1 (standard three-pin plug): Using a regular household outlet is the slowest method, often taking 8-12 hours for a full charge, making it suitable for overnight charging.
- Level 2 (home wallbox or public charger): A 7kWh wallbox charger, which can be installed at home, is much faster. It can typically fully charge a PHEV in 1.5 to 4 hours. While there are exceptions, most PHEVs do not support DC rapid charging because their batteries are smaller than those in fully electric vehicles.
Do I need a home charger for a PHEV?
While you don't strictly need a dedicated home charger (a 7kWh wallbox), it is highly recommended to get the most benefit from a PHEV. A home wallbox provides faster, more convenient charging than a standard three-pin plug. Relying only on public charging stations can be less convenient and potentially more expensive. To maximise fuel savings and the electric driving experience, establishing a regular habit of charging at home is key.
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