Best Self-Charging Hybrids 2025

Kia Sportage, Kia Sorento, Honda Civic and Honda Jazz recognised in What Car?’s Best Self-Charging Hybrids 2025

Self-charging hybrids are becoming one of the most popular choices for UK drivers in 2025. By blending a petrol engine with an electric motor, they offer lower running costs, reduced emissions and a quieter drive. Crucially, they don’t need to be plugged in – the battery is charged automatically as you drive. For motorists in Norfolk, Suffolk and across East Anglia, that makes them an ideal solution: the efficiency of electrification with the reassurance of petrol power on longer journeys.

In What Car?’s guide to the Best Self-Charging Hybrids You Don’t Have to Plug In 2025, four of the UK’s most popular self-charging hybrids from Holden Group’s partner brands were recognised: the Kia Sportage, Kia Sorento, Honda Civic and Honda Jazz. Together, they represent some of the most practical, efficient and user-friendly hybrid cars available in the UK today – from family SUVs to compact hatchbacks.

Why self-charging hybrids are leading the way in 2025

Alongside the rise of plug-in hybrids and fully electric cars, self-charging hybrids stand out for their ease of use. They recharge their batteries automatically from braking and engine power, so there’s no need for a charging point at home or at work. For many drivers, especially those who live in rural areas or don’t have off-street parking, this makes them far more practical option.

The benefits include:

• Lower fuel bills – hybrids deliver significantly better miles per gallon than petrol or diesel alternatives.
• Reduced emissions – making them a cleaner choice for towns and cities.
• Hassle-free ownership – no cables, no charging times, no worries about charging infrastructure.
• Versatility – equally capable in town, on country roads or cruising motorways.

It’s this blend of efficiency and convenience that What Car? celebrated in its 2025 rankings, and four Holden Group models made the list.

Kia Sportage Hybrid – the family SUV that ticks every box

The Kia Sportage Hybrid has long been a favourite for families, and the latest hybrid model ensures it remains at the top of its game. Blending a practical SUV design with advanced hybrid efficiency, it’s a car that offers something for everyone.

Key highlights:

• Versatility: Spacious enough for family life, with over 500 litres of boot capacity and plenty of legroom for passengers.
• Performance: A 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid system delivering 226 bhp, providing smooth acceleration and impressive motorway cruising.
• Technology: Packed with features such as dual 12.3-inch displays, advanced driver assistance, and seamless smartphone connectivity.

Why What Car? recognised it

The Sportage Hybrid was praised for being the “complete package”. A family SUV that is practical, stylish, efficient and enjoyable to drive. It ticks every box, making it a dependable choice for households who want a car that can handle school runs, holidays and everything in between.

Kia Sorento Hybrid – big car, big capability

If you need even more space and versatility, the Kia Sorento Hybrid delivers in abundance. This seven-seat SUV combines hybrid efficiency with impressive capability, making it ideal for larger families or those who regularly need extra room.

Key highlights:

• Space: Seating for up to seven passengers and a vast 608-litre boot with seats folded.
• Power: A 1.60litre turbo-hybrid system producing 226 ghp ensures that despite its size, the Sorento feels responsive and composed.
• Comfort: Premium interior finishes, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced driver-assist systems make long journeys easier and more enjoyable.

Why What Car? recognised it

The Sorento Hybrid was highlighted for offering big-car practicality without compromising on efficiency. With fuel economy figures of up to 40 mpg, it proves that you can have size and presence on the road while still benefitting from hybrid technology’s lower running costs. It stands out as one of the best hybrid SUVs UK buyers can choose in 2025.

Honda Civic Hybrid – efficient, refined and great to drive

The Honda Civic Hybrid has become one of the best examples of how hybrid technology can improve everyday driving. Combining Honda’s engineering expertise with modern styling, it delivers strong fuel economy without losing the engaging drive the Civic is known for.

Key highlights:

• Efficiency: Returns of close to 60 mpg make it one of the most economical cars in its class.
• Driving experience: Honda’s e: HEV system allows smooth electric running at lower speeds, with the petrol engine providing effortless power when required.
• Practicality: A spacious interior with class-leading rear legroom and a 410-litre boot ensure it works well for families as well as business users.

Why What Car? recognised it

The Civic Hybrid was praised for its refinement and balance. It’s a hatchback that feels grown-up and sophisticated while still being efficient and rewarding behind the wheel – one of the strongest Honda self-charging hybrids for UK drivers.

Honda Jazz Hybrid – compact, clever and efficient

For drivers who want a smaller car without sacrificing practicality, the Honda Jazz Hybrid is a standout choice. Compact on the outside but surprisingly spacious inside, it proves that good things really do come in small packages.

Key highlights:

• Efficiency: Up to 62.8 mpg thanks to Honda’s clever e:HEV hybrid system.
• Practicality: The Jazz’s unique “Magic Seats” fold flat or flip up to create flexible interior layouts, making it easy to carry bulky or tall items despite its compact size.
• Usability: Easy to drive, with a high driving position, light steering and great visibility, perfect for town and city use.

Why What Car? recognised it

The Jazz Hybrid earned praise for being one of the smartest and most practical superminis available. Its efficiency, clever design and reliability make it especially appealing for those who want low running costs without giving up flexibility. It remains one of the best hybrid small cars in the UK.

What this means for Holden Group customers

With Kia and Honda models recognised in What Car?’s list of the best hybrids you don’t have to plug in, Holden Group customers in Norfolk and Suffolk can access some of the UK’s most acclaimed self-charging hybrids. From the family-friendly Kia Sportage to the big and capable Sorento, and from the refined Honda Civic to the ingenious Jazz, there’s a hybrid to suit every need and lifestyle.

At Holden dealerships, our teams are here to guide you through the benefits of hybrid technology, explain ownership costs and finance options, and arrange test drives so you can experience these award-winning cars first-hand.

Experience the future today

Self-charging hybrids are redefining everyday motoring. They combine the ease and familiarity of petrol driving with the efficiency and lower emissions of electric power, without the need to plug in.

Whether you need space, efficiency, refinement or flexibility, Kia and Honda hybrids offer compelling choices for 2025. With more drivers than ever choosing hybrids this year, now is the perfect time to explore what makes these models stand out.

Visit your nearest Holden Group showroom to discover the right model for you and see why these cars are celebrated among the best hybrid vehicles on sale in the UK today.