Holden celebrates five models in Auto Express Best Hybrid Cars 2025
Five of our standout vehicles have earned a place in Auto Express’s definitive guide to “The best hybrid cars to buy in 2025.”
Combining a petrol engine with a battery‑powered electric motor (or two), today’s hybrids slash fuel consumption, cut emissions, and trim day‑to‑day running costs -qualities that make them an appealing option for UK motorists in 2025.
While many new petrol models now come with mild‑hybrid systems as standard, the full hybrids featured in this article deliver the greatest gains in efficiency. These cars can glide on electric power alone at low speeds, ideal for stop‑start urban driving, only calling on the petrol engine when higher performance is required. The result is noticeably lower exhaust emissions and better fuel economy, without ever having to plug the vehicle in. For this reason, full hybrids are often marketed as “self‑charging” hybrids.
Drivers chasing even bigger fuel savings might consider a plug‑in hybrid. Thanks to their larger battery packs, some can cover 50 miles or more on electricity before the engine needs to help out. The trade‑off is that those batteries must be topped up regularly from an external power source.
MG, Dacia and Renault hybrids are setting new standards. From the nimble MG3 Hybrid+ to the family-friendly Dacia Jogger Hybrid, each model strikes the perfect balance of fuel efficiency, affordability and driving enjoyment.
Read on to discover some of the best hybrid vehicles in the UK and why they deserve a spot in your garage this year.
1. MG3 Hybrid+
Auto Express best hybrid car overall
Prices from £18,995
Overall Auto Express rating: 5/5
WLTP combined fuel economy: 64.2 mpg
Boot space: 293 litres
Highlights:
- Engaging to drive
- Class-leading performance
- Strong efficiency
The MG3 Hybrid+ redefines the supermini segment with its punchy full-hybrid powertrain that delivers over 60 mpg alongside genuinely fun driving dynamics. Starting from under £19k, it also clinched the Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year at Auto Express’s 2024 New Car Awards, underscoring its blend of value and performance.
Inside, the interior is smart and there is 293 litres of boot space. The MG3’s 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included.
The MG3 is among the most fun to drive, comfortable and best-equipped cars in its class. It’s also easily the fastest while returning strong fuel consumption figures.
Alex Ingram Auto Express chief reviewer
2. Dacia Duster Hybrid
Auto Express best for off-roading
Prices from £24,830
Overall Auto Express rating: 4.5/5
WLTP combined fuel economy: 56.5 mpg
Boot space: 594 litres
Highlights:
- Comfortable ride across varied surfaces
- Spacious, well-designed interior
- Great desirability for the price
Combining rugged practicality with a proven 1.6 litre petrol-electric powertrain shared with the Jogger Hybrid, the Duster SUV hybrid delivers real-world efficiency north of 50 mpg and a feature-rich cabin, ideal for families on a budget.
If you opt for the Expression trim, the Dacia Duster Hybrid comes with useful features including a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
We’re pleased to report that the Duster hasn’t lost its way, because the third-generation SUV offers great-value motoring and family car practicality at an affordable price.
Alex Ingram Auto Express chief reviewer
3. Renault Clio E-Tech
Auto Express best for driving experience
Prices from £21,895
Overall Auto Express rating: 4.5/5
WLTP combined fuel economy: 67.3 mpg
Boot space: 301 litres
Highlights:
- Eye-catching new design
- Generous standard equipment
- Engaging, refined driving dynamics
Renault’s E-Tech full-hybrid system pairs a 1.6 litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined 143 bhp, delivering sub-10 second 0–62 mph sprints and class-leading efficiency in a sharply styled hatchback.
Cabin quality is impressive and the five door bodystyle allows plenty of rear legroom for adults.
The full-hybrid Clio E-Tech offers impressive fuel economy and zippy EV-like performance around town.
Ellis Hyde Auto Express news reporter
4. Dacia Jogger Hybrid
Prices from £23,305
Overall Auto Express rating: 4.5/5
WLTP combined fuel economy: 57.6 mpg
Boot space: 699 litres
Highlights:
- Exceptional value for money
- Roomy seven-seat layout
- Strong residual values
For large families wanting to save money and have flexibility, the Jogger Hybrid’s 1.6 litre multimode automatic gearbox setup can run up to 80% of town driving in EV mode, all within a seven-seat package unmatched on price.
According to Dacia, the Jogger Hybrid can run in pure-electric mode for up to 80 per cent of the time when you’re driving in town.
There’s more to the Dacia Jogger than just passenger carrying, because it’s a practical estate car that offers versatility and low running costs, and it just so happens to have a third row in the boot.
Dean Gibson Auto Express senior test editor
5. MG ZS Hybrid+
Prices from £22,495
Overall Auto Express rating: 4/5
WLTP combined fuel economy: 55.4 mpg
Boot space: 443 litres
Highlights:
- Superb performance (0–62 mph in 8.7 s)
- Solid ride and handling
- Strong equipment levels
The MG ZS Hybrid+ is a compact SUV that punches above its weight with a 193 bhp hybrid drivetrain that feels more like an electric vehicle in daily use, accelerating briskly while offering generous interior space and kit, all for under £23k.
In addition to providing a good ride and handing, the ZS is spacious too with a 443 litre boot and generous kit.
Hybrid power suits this car well and sets it apart from its competitors, in what is fast becoming a vastly overcrowded market
Alex Ingram Auto Express chief reviewer
Whether you’re navigating city streets, tackling daily commutes or embarking on family adventures across Norfolk and Suffolk, there’s a Holden-backed hybrid car here to suit your needs.
Visit your nearest Holden Group dealership or contact us today to book a test drive and discover the best hybrid cars available in East Anglia.
