The hybrid car market keeps getting bigger and better, so there’s plenty of choice out there. The best hybrid car will suit your budget and driving style – so take a look at the differences between mild hybrids and PHEVs, the latest releases from leading manufacturers and see what works for you. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up some of 2020’s best hybrids here.

Manufacturers brand and market hybrid cars in various ways but, fundamentally, they are powered by an internal combustion engine (petrol or diesel) and an electric motor, which is powered by energy stored in the electric batteries. There are different types of hybrid:

• mild (or MHEV) use the electric motor to support the engine,
• ‘full’ hybrids (or HEVs) alternate between the internal combustion engine and the battery and can run for short distances on electric power alone,
• plug-in hybrids (or PHEVs) have bigger batteries and can run for longer distances (typically around 20-30 miles) using the electric motor(s) alone.

This depends on the type of hybrid. You don’t have to charge your plug-in hybrid from a home ‘wallbox’ or public charging point but that is an option if you want the full benefits of the increased electric range.

If you don’t, it will spend more time using the petrol or diesel engine, meaning you have to fuel it like a regular car. Other types of hybrid ‘self-charge’ while you drive.

Most hybrid cars use automatic gearboxes, as these help the electric motor work more seamlessly with the internal combustion engine.

If you’re buying outright, then hybrid cars generally cost more than the equivalent petrol or diesel model. But you stand to save money thanks to lower tax rates and better fuel economy.

Batteries can intrude on boot space in some models, meaning hybrid versions can be less practical than other models in the range.

Real-world fuel consumption may not reflect the manufacturers’ claims, especially if you do a lot of motorway miles or don’t take the option to charge a PHEV. That said, tax incentives encouraging company drivers into low-emission cars can save some people huge amounts of money. As with all decisions, it’s ultimately what works for you.

Currently, plug-in hybrids that produce less than 75g/km of CO2 and have an electric-only range of at least 20 miles are exempt from paying the London Congestion Charge.

Criteria may vary in other cities as clean air zones are introduced, so check with your local council about plans near you.