12 Best Used Hybrid Estate Cars [2024 List!]

Many consumers are now on the lookout for electrified cars. However, what if you still prefer the convenience of a traditional combustion engine and fuel yet are intrigued by the idea of electric power? Leading manufacturers have addressed this very question with hybrid vehicles.

There are essentially two types of hybrids: self-charging models that combine petrol and electric power and plug-in hybrids that can travel significant distances solely on electricity before engaging their engines. The used market is now flooded with both options. That’s where our guide to the best hybrid estate cars comes in.

And don’t forget, Carplus is here to make your car-buying experience smooth and favourable.

1. BMW 330e Touring

The BMW 330e Touring tops the compact executive saloon market with its timeless style, excellent equipment, and enjoyable driving experience. This car comes with a 12kWh battery and a reliability warranty of 6 years or 60,000 miles. It emits only 39g/km and provides an impressive range of 37 miles on electric power alone.

In models from 2016 to 2019, the 330e boasts 252hp. This allows the model to achieve a 6.1-second (0-60) time. The hybrid system maintained the same power output. But then the automaker introduced Xtraboost technology in 2019 and provided an extra 40hp in Sport mode for up to 10 seconds.

Charging the battery is a breeze. In earlier models with a 25-mile range, it takes around two hours and 12 minutes at speeds up to 3.7kW. The newer model, which features a slightly larger battery, needs just under two and a half hours to reach an 80% charge.

Visually, the 330e is indistinguishable from its non-electrified counterparts. So, the 330e is a perfect choice if you’re seeking the benefits of a hybrid estate car without drawing attention.

2. Volkswagen Passat GTE

The Volkswagen Passat GTE is a hidden gem beneath its unassuming exterior. It offers polished road manners and a spacious cabin that rivals premium brands. Plus, owners will enjoy its relaxed, easy-to-live-with demeanour. This plug-in hybrid boasts a battery with an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty. Also, it emits a low 29g/km and delivers an electric range of 35 miles.

Despite, once again, the modest appearance, the Passat GTE surprises with a turbocharged 1.4-litre TSI engine. When combined with the electric motor, it produces a solid 215 bhp. The car’s performance feels more spirited than expected, which is definitely a compelling choice in the Volkswagen Group lineup.

Charging the Passat GTE takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes with household power sockets or approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes with wall box chargers. Earlier models with the original 9.9kWh battery are attractively priced. But you can also lean into newer facelifted versions with an enhanced 13kWh battery.

As one of the more mature plug-ins available, the Passat GTE offers a reasonably plentiful supply of used models.

3. Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo may be an unconventional choice for the best used hybrid cars. IT was even once deemed the ugly duck of the Porsche range. However, in this Sport Turismo iteration, it transforms into a very good-looking device — concealing its mass and presenting a desirable large five-door option.

The model is available in 4 E-Hybrid and Turbo S E-Hybrid configurations. Both feature a V6 2.9-litre petrol engine and a 130hp electric motor, which accounts for a total output of 456bhp. The electric motor enhances acceleration and grants electric-only cruising for up to 20 miles. The 4 E-Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 60 almost a full second quicker than the standard 4. But the Turbo S E-Hybrid surpasses the standard Turbo’s sprint time.

The Panamera is equipped with a 17.9kWh battery. It supports an optional 7.2-kW onboard charger and a 230-V, 32-A connection, which allows a full charge in just 2.4 hours. Inside, the car maintains Porsche’s renowned build quality, logical design, and cutting-edge technology.

4. Toyota Corolla Touring Sports

The Toyota Corolla Touring Sports showcases Toyota’s commitment to dynamic design and fuel efficiency. The newest Corolla looks more eye-catching than before. This breaks away from the old design style and proves how the brand’s visual appeal has evolved.

Underneath the sporty styling lies a hybrid powerhouse. There are two petrol engines complementing the hybrid system: a 1.8-litre unit with 138bhp and a more potent 2.0-litre engine with 193bhp. The entry-level 2.0-litre variant achieves a CO2 emission level of 100g/km. This qualifies for cheaper VED rates.

The Corolla Touring Sports has optimal fuel usage that self-charging hybrid estates are known for. It employs regenerative braking for electric-only running over short distances with its 2.5kWh battery. If you’re looking for an efficient and tech-savvy estate car, this is a great option.

The car is also known for providing a quiet and calming driving experience. However, it falls short in terms of sheer enjoyment compared to class leaders and lags in connectivity and practicality.

5. Volvo V90

In the V90, Volvo came out with a compelling combination of space, quality, and performance. Plus, you get the financial benefits of electric power in a used hybrid.

It has a striking 385bhp T8 petrol-electric hybrid car, which accelerates briskly and seamlessly transitions between power sources. In 2020, Volvo enhanced the V90’s efficiency by introducing mild hybrid technology to its engines. It incorporated a 48V battery, integrated starter/generator, and energy recovery system. The most powerful mild-hybrid engine in the range is the 300bhp B6P.

The V90’s 3.6kW charge capability enables a three-hour charging time. As for emissions, it releases only 47g/km of CO2 and offers an official electric range of over 50 miles. However, the real-world electric range comes up to 36 miles. When it glides silently on electric power, it certainly adds a luxurious touch and masks any automatic gearbox hesitancy.

The design elements are shared with the XC90. What’s more notable, though, is that V90 features a light and airy interior, with intriguing colour and material combinations.

6. Škoda Superb IV Combi

The Škoda Superb IV Combi was once a conventional saloon. But it has evolved into a stylish and appealing estate car, especially with the introduction of the plug-in hybrid variant in 2019.

The model now combines a 1.5 TSI engine with an electric motor, and together, they deliver a robust 201 bhp. Unlike some hybrids, the Superb doesn’t try to be sporty and maintains a focus on practicality. Well, it offers a Sport mode. But the Superb’s strength lies in its honesty about its non-sporty nature. Performance-wise, there’s still everything you’d hope for — 0-60 in a respectable 7.7 seconds.

To maximize fuel efficiency, regular charging is crucial, and Škoda claims the default e-mode provides around 34 miles of electric-only power. The emission levels range from 30 to 42g/km, and the maximum charging rate is 3.6kW. As for charging, it achieves a zero-to-80% charge in three and a half hours.

The Superb IV Combi shares its platform with the Volkswagen Passat GTE. They’re also competing in the same price range.

7. Audi A6 Avant

Audi A6 enters the realm of hybrids with the Avant 50 TFSI e, a recent addition to its lineup in the UK. This hybrid estate car boasts a substantial 17.9kWh battery. With it, you get a striking claimed all-electric range of up to 41 miles.

The powertrain combines an electric motor with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. This results in a total output of 295bhp. Although the A6 Avant plug-in is quite heavy at 2,150kg due to the battery, it’s surprisingly quick — 0-60 in just 6.3 seconds. The system has three modes: EV Mode for electric-only driving, Hybrid Auto for maximum efficiency, and Hybrid Hold to save charge for later use. EV Mode doesn’t match the smoothness of a dedicated electric vehicle. But it still delivers a notably silent and smooth driving experience.

Efficiency is a standout feature. Audi claims a potential 217mpg and low CO2 emissions of 30g/km. Charging the battery with a 7kW charger takes around two hours and 30 minutes. If you only have a 3.7kW wall box, it’ll be four hours.

8. Volvo V60 Recharge

The Volvo V60 Recharge is one of the best hybrid estates, and it might take the crown for the best-looking model in the segment. Here, Volvo shows restrained elegance in a segment where others opt for a more aggressive appearance.

The T6 model combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine for the front wheels and an electric motor for the rear wheels. This delivers a combined 345bhp and a quick 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds. The real highlight, however, is the electric-only range of up to 54 miles. This results in only 18g/km of CO2 emissions, which makes it an excellent choice for company car drivers.

It’s not a surprise, but the V60 Recharge doesn’t deliver a sporty driving experience due to its heavy battery and supple suspension. The good news is that it excels as a competent and sophisticated cruiser.

On a full battery for around 100 miles, the trip computer will show 60mpg. Real-life fuel economy drops to 35-40mpg when driving without electric assistance. Charging the battery at 3.7kW takes about 2.5 hours from a home wall box.

9. Mercedes E-Class

The plug-in hybrid version of the Mercedes E-Class adds an exciting dimension to this esteemed lineup. It has retained all the beloved aspects of the standard E-Class. But it also introduced a sleek and fuel-efficient part-electric powertrain to the mix.

These estate cars are equipped with a 13.5 kWh battery, and their reliability is backed by a six-year/62,000-mile warranty. The eco-friendly performance is proved by emissions ranging from 41 to 46 g/km.

There is one thing distinguishing the E-Class from competitors like BMW, Audi, and Volvo. It is available with both petrol (E 300 e) and diesel (E 300 de) engines. Each presents a distinct driving experience — the petrol variant suits urban commuting, and the diesel counterpart is ideal for highway journeys and city navigation. Both versions integrate conventional engines with a compact battery and an electric motor. For both, emission-free, pure-electric driving covers over 30 miles.

The model needs less than two hours with a 7.4 kW charger or under four hours with a standard three-pin UK socket.

10. Ford Mondeo Hybrid

The Ford Mondeo Hybrid is a version of the immensely popular Mondeo; only this one integrates a conventional 2.0-litre petrol engine with a substantial battery. This hybrid powertrain collaborates to deliver a combined output of 190hp.

Despite the horsepower, the Mondeo isn’t as quick as it might suggest. It’s lacking in the turbocharged engines found in similar hybrid cars. The 0-60 time is 9.2 seconds on paper.

Regrettably, the emissions are rated at 103g/km, and the combined fuel economy is 49.6mpg on average (real-life figure). This doesn’t surpass that of a diesel-powered Mondeo significantly. However, the car excels in the uninterrupted transition between electric and petrol power and a CVT automatic transmission for smooth gliding. The electric-only range is very limited — you’ll only get a few miles on electric power.

Despite its eco-friendly features inside, the hybrid model closely resembles its petrol and diesel counterparts. The main distinction is visible in the redesigned instrument cluster.

11. Hyundai Ioniq

The Hyundai Ioniq is a truly versatile choice. With this model, Hyundai has come out with a unique proposition in the form of three available powertrain options: mild hybrid estate car, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric. That’s the world’s first model to provide this trio of choices.

The Ioniq is equipped with a rear-mounted electric motor generating 216bhp. On a more detailed level, it combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine and an electric motor, and these two manage to deliver a real-life fuel efficiency of around 55mpg. The electric motor makes for silent, fuel-free city cruising at slow speeds. The pure-electric mode covers 30 miles on a full battery. This is good for short, daily commutes without using any petrol.

The model’s low-slung body shares similarities with the Toyota Prius from the side. But the Ioniq makes a mark with unassuming styling from the front and rear. The interior of the Hyundai Ioniq leaves a bigger impression.

Charging the Ioniq takes around six hours with a mains socket or less than three hours with a 3.6kW domestic wall charger.

12. BMW i8

The i8 is a part of BMW’s eco-friendly ’i’ range alongside the i3 hatchback. This one, in particular, stands out with its advanced carbon-fiber construction, which gives it a lightweight yet robust structure.

The model also features a rather unique powertrain. It combines a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, which produces 228bhp on its own, with the additional 141bhp from an electric motor. The motor drives the front wheels and adds muscle. So, you get an overall sporty performance.

The official fuel efficiency suggests 128.4mpg and low CO2 emissions of 42 to 46g/km. However, achieving this will require careful driving. As for electric driving, the BMW i8 offers a maximum EV range of up to 34 miles. Charging the car takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes using a typical 7kW home charging point.

Despite being on the market since 2014, the i8 remains a rare sight, and it makes this used hybrid an exclusive choice for exclusive buyers.

Final Words

Hybrids have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to petrol or diesel engine cars. But still, the ongoing savings in fuel expenses and lower CO2 emissions outweigh that initial investment. Plus, when you opt for a used plug-in hybrid, you further increase your savings and take advantage of the relative affordability of electricity.

Hybrid car technologies, like Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive in the Prius, have shown their reliability over time. These cars offer dependable and cost-effective service with reasonable maintenance costs. The durability of hybrid batteries, even in older models, contributes to their long-term dependability. So, what are you waiting for?

Dive into the options of the best hybrid estate cars on Carplus and enjoy the practical and economical benefits of hybrids.