Finding Affordable Hybrid Cars: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re looking to reduce fuel consumption and lower your running costs but aren’t quite ready to transition to a fully electric vehicle, a hybrid car could be the perfect solution. While the market is filled with premium hybrid models, this article focuses on the most affordable hybrid cars currently available. Thankfully, the hybrid vehicle segment has greatly expanded, offering options in various categories, from compact superminis to spacious family SUVs.
The good news is that modern hybrid technology doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. In this guide, we’ll explore the most budget-friendly hybrid cars for sale today. Hybrid vehicles offer many of the advantages found in electric cars, such as the ability to drive short distances using electric power alone, while still providing the range and convenience of a traditional petrol or diesel engine.
With over three decades of mainstream hybrid technology, choosing a budget-friendly hybrid doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or fuel efficiency. Today, you’ll find three main types of hybrid vehicles: mild hybrids, full hybrids, and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). Most cars featured in this list are full hybrids, often referred to as ‘self-charging’ hybrids, meaning you won’t need to rely on public charging stations or install a home charger.
To keep things simple, we’ve excluded mild hybrids, as this technology has become common across many manufacturers and models. Each car on our list has been thoroughly tested, with a focus on overall quality, driving dynamics, and everyday practicality. Below, you’ll find detailed impressions to help you identify which affordable hybrid car may be the best fit for your needs.
Table of Contents
- 10. Honda Jazz – £26,885
- 9. Suzuki S-Cross Hybrid – £26,699
- 8. Suzuki Vitara Full Hybrid – £26,199
- 7. Toyota Yaris Cross – £24,840
- 6. Renault Captur E-Tech Hybrid – £24,895
- 5. Mazda 2 Hybrid – £23,955
- 4. Dacia Jogger Hybrid 140 – £22,995
- 3. Toyota Yaris – £22,640
- 2. Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid – £21,495
- 1. MG3 – £18,495
10. Honda Jazz – £26,885
The Honda Jazz has opted for hybrid power in its latest iteration, bypassing the trend of smaller vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines. This model features a self-charging hybrid system that combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with two electric motors. The transitions between electric and petrol power are nearly seamless. What sets the Jazz apart is its exceptional practicality; it comfortably seats four adults and offers 304 litres of boot space. The entry-level model doesn’t skimp on technology, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and LED lighting.
9. Suzuki S-Cross Hybrid – £26,699
In the crowded compact SUV market, the Suzuki S-Cross often gets overshadowed by more prominent competitors like the Nissan Qashqai. However, it offers excellent value, especially in hybrid form. With a distinctive exterior design, the S-Cross is agile and enjoyable to drive, achieving up to 54.3mpg. It comes equipped with a solid array of tech and safety features from the base model. Although rear passenger space is somewhat limited, its boot capacity is a respectable 430 litres, and a four-wheel-drive variant is available for those wanting additional off-road capabilities.
8. Suzuki Vitara Full Hybrid – £26,199
The Suzuki Vitara distinguishes itself with a powertrain developed entirely by Suzuki, featuring a 133bhp 1.5-litre hybrid engine. While it may not match the smoothness of Toyota’s hybrid systems, it still achieves up to 53.2mpg. One downside is the automated manual gearbox, which can be sluggish at times. Nevertheless, the Vitara is stylish and well-equipped, offering features such as adaptive cruise control, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, along with Suzuki’s reliable ALLGRIP four-wheel-drive system for added confidence in difficult weather.
7. Toyota Yaris Cross – £24,840
The Yaris Cross builds upon Toyota’s long-standing reputation for efficient small hybrids, combining the strengths of the Yaris hatchback with a more versatile SUV body. With fuel economy exceeding 60mpg and CO2 emissions under 100g/km, it’s an economical choice for small families. The Yaris Cross retains the easy-driving characteristics of the Yaris, and features like a standard reversing camera make parking in tight spaces straightforward.
6. Renault Captur E-Tech Hybrid – £24,895
The second-generation Renault Captur remains one of the top picks among small SUVs and has won awards for its design and performance. The Captur E-Tech hybrid shares its drivetrain with the Clio supermini, combining a 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors for a balanced driving experience. While some practicality has been sacrificed for hybrid technology, it still comfortably accommodates a family of four and their luggage.
5. Mazda 2 Hybrid – £23,955
The Mazda 2 Hybrid bears a striking resemblance to the Toyota Yaris, as it is essentially a rebadged version. Both cars use the same 114bhp 1.5-litre full hybrid powertrain. While the Mazda may carry a higher price tag, it excels in urban settings, achieving over 65mpg with ease. It’s essential to compare finance or leasing options for both models, as neither excels in high-speed refinement, making them less ideal for frequent motorway travel.
4. Dacia Jogger Hybrid 140 – £22,995
The Dacia Jogger stands out as one of the most affordable hybrid cars and one of the least expensive seven-seaters available. It boasts generous interior space, low running costs, and decent in-car features for a competitive price. While its utilitarian design may not win beauty contests, it offers remarkable versatility for families. The hybrid system delivers over 55mpg, seamlessly switching between electric and petrol power as needed.
3. Toyota Yaris – £22,640
The latest Toyota Yaris comes exclusively as a hybrid, providing an optimal fit for compact city driving. In our tests, it achieved an impressive real-world fuel economy of 56.2mpg. Despite its 114bhp feeling slightly underpowered on the motorways, it shines in urban settings with its responsive steering and agile handling, making it a compelling choice in the supermini segment.
2. Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid – £21,495
The Renault Clio E-Tech hybrid offers a competitive starting price and comes well-equipped with features such as LED headlights, a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, and advanced safety systems. Its hybrid setup combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors, achieving up to 64.2mpg. Our testing found it typically returns around 58.5mpg, showcasing its efficiency, while its performance makes it a compelling option in the small hybrid class.
1. MG3 – £18,495
The MG3 currently holds the title of the UK’s most affordable hybrid car, offering an impressive blend of features, comfort, and equipment. This model prioritizes electric motor usage, creating an experience that feels more akin to an electric vehicle than a traditional hybrid. It achieves an official fuel economy of 64.5mpg, and our real-world tests confirmed 55.4mpg. The MG3 also provides ample passenger space and includes essential safety features, all backed by a robust seven-year/80,000-mile warranty.