Hybrid/EV Reviews

Top Gear’s guide to: Hybrids/EVs

Not science fiction, science fact. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids are here to stay. And pretty good they are, too

What you need to know

Range anxiety

A recognised condition related to worry about whether an EV will make it home

Range extender

Small ‘generator’ engine that tops up the batteries that drive the wheels

Hybrid

A car with an engine that drives the wheels, and batteries that help in town. Think Prius

How far?

The best EVs generally manage a comfortable 60 miles on a charge. Commute distance

Reliable

Fewer moving parts in electric motors mean that EVs are more than reliable normal cars

Silence

Hybrids and EVs are very quiet. They tend to be quite relaxing as a result. Which is nice
Found 15 results
9/10
Volkswagen

XL1

£98,515

It’s like the Jetson’s finally got a daily driver. A brilliant, boundary-pushing eco-hypercar.

9/10
BMW

i3

£30,925 – £46,595

The best small premium EV you can buy.

9/10
BMW

i8

£106,255 – £116,250

This is the future, supercar buyers. If this is how it's to be, bring it on.

8/10
Volkswagen

e-Golf

£17,570 – £34,340

The e-Golf is an EV that works for most of us, most of the time. A truly convincing electric car.

8/10
Nissan

Leaf

£21,125 – £33,385

The real joy of the Leaf isn't the money, it's the motor, and its charming grace. For the way most people drive, it's simply a better source of motion.

8/10
Tesla

Model X

£80,350 – £168,730

Tesla invents new doors, adds extra seats. Charges the earth. It's lifestyle, not value for money.

7/10
Toyota

Prius

£24,095 – £33,840

The Prius gets better in the areas it needed to, but its styling will scare your kids.

7/10
Volvo

V60 Hybrid

£23,890 – £53,270

As green as cars get these days, the V60 Plug-in has the best of both worlds – pace and economy.

7/10
Renault

Twizy

£6,940 – £7,740

A brilliant answer to the question of eco-friendly urban transport.

7/10
Audi

A3 E-Tron

£20,170 – £38,490

Not the perfect solution to all your motoring needs, but a great first effort at a useable everyday hybrid.

7/10
Renault

Zoe

£22,865 – £31,465

The Zoe was already a strong EV contender – extra power and range makes it more convincing than ever

6/10
Mitsubishi

Outlander PHEV

£24,799 – £45,545

It’s brilliant. But only up to a point. Pity. It could be so much better...

5/10
Kia

Niro

£23,340 – £30,790

Not at all charismatic, but if you want low running costs it has logic.

4/10
Lexus

CT 200h

£23,350 – £31,830

To call this a posh Prius may sound a little harsh, but that’s what it is.

Hyundai

Ioniq

£21,640 – £31,990

At last, a hybrid that doesn’t make you suffer for its green ideals. Top of the class.