Compare the best large hybrid SUVs
High-quality big hybrid SUV cars from rated and reviewed dealers
Best large hybrid SUVs of 2024
A large hybrid SUV is arguably the best hybrid choice, as bigger cars have more room to package batteries and fuel tanks, and still leave enough space for people and luggage. Here are ten of the best hybrid SUVs on sale - covering both plug-in hybrids that can cover over 20 miles on battery alone and need plugging in and recharging, and so-called ‘self-charging’ hybrids that have a small battery capable of running the car at low speed and gather energy under deceleration or via the engine.
Battery range up to 45 miles
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Hybrid power really seems to suit the big X5 — it can manage a useful (official) 55 miles on electric power with a full charge of its battery, and it’s not overly-thirsty on a longer run with the 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine doing the work. Best of all, it’s a proper BMW, so it’s lovely to drive.
Battery range up to 34 miles
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The Q7 isn’t Audi’s prettiest SUV (that’ll be the slinky Q8) but it is massive inside, and has lots of space for lanky teenage limbs in the back seats. It’s a shame you can’t have seven seats with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, but at least you still get a big boot.
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The Sorento has long been a giant-killer for Kia, and the current model, which manages to be both handsome and practical, is the best one yet. The plug-in hybrid powertrain is very efficient (30 miles of electric range and 45mpg in the real world on long runs) and the cabin is utterly gorgeous, and hugely comfy too. There’s also a simpler regular hybrid model, that has an official 41mpg economy figure.
The big XC90 has been around for quite a while now, and is up for replacement soon, but it still has charm. Charm and a big battery, with enough electric capacity for a claimed 41-mile range on a full charge. The XC, like all plug-in hybrids, does get thirsty once you’re on the motorway and the battery is depleted, but it’s so comfy you might not care.
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The Q8 TFSIe’s combination of menacing, gangster-spec looks with the saintly plug-in hybrid powertrain is quite the mix of yin and yang. 28 miles of electric range with 381hp is no bad mix either, although the Q8 likes a drink on a long run.
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Sensible and practical, the Tiguan was treated recently to a styling go-over by VW, and that resulted in a sharper-looking nose, and a cabin that looks and feels more appropriately expensive. It’s roomy, too, and while the 30-mile electric range is starting to look on the short side, it’s adequate.
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Basically the same under the skin as the Kia Sorento, but arguably not quite as good looking. The big Santa Fe is still a compelling choice, though, with either hybrid or plug-in hybrid models available, and a cabin that mixes exceptional comfort with the sort of quality you might expect from a premium brand.
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Toyota arguably knows more about batteries and hybrids than any other car maker, and in the RAV4 PHEV it really shows — no other car here can quite match the RAV4’s combo of 47-mile electric range with genuine, real-world 50mpg economy on a long drive. If only it was a little more fun to drive, but we do like the rugged and roomy interior. The standard hybrid might actually be the better all-rounder, depending on how it’s used.
Just about to be replaced, but the Lexus RX450 does have two things still going for it. On the one hand, it’s about the only way you can have a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with reasonable fuel economy. On the other hand, it’s one of the few cars that can just about match a Rolls-Royce Phantom for seat and ride comfort. Endlessly reliable, too.
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Did someone say endlessly reliable? Well, the Honda CR-V’s ears pricked up at that. The CR-V is hardly the most thrilling car around, but it’s one that grows on you the more you drive it. Clever gearbox-less hybrid system delivers 45mpg, and it’s roomy and practical inside.
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