Finding the best hybrid SUV is a bit like the ‘just right’ porridge from Goldilocks. For many people, it brings the safety net of a petrol engine but the possibility of low running costs thanks to some help from electric motors and batteries.

Putting this technology into an SUV means you’re getting the added space and practicality of a high-riding model. For families, an increase in ride height also helps when it comes to loading car seats in and out, or when you’re putting buggies in the boot.

Hybrid SUVs have been mass-produced for quite a while now, too, so that means there’s plenty of variety out there to choose from. So let’s dive in and check out 10 of the best used hybrid SUVs available today.

Why should you buy a used hybrid SUV?

Buying a used hybrid SUV makes loads of sense. They are cars with very few drawbacks, in fact, but they’re great ways of getting around for people who want a little bit of everything.

Lower fuel bills vs petrol SUVs

A used hybrid SUV can be great for people looking to reduce fuel bills. Plug-in hybrid models can be driven on all-electric power for short periods, so they can help bring down the amount of petrol or diesel you use.

Enhanced practicality

The SUV design makes these models very practical, while because they’re quite big cars to begin with the batteries from the hybrid system don’t dent boot space too much.

Plenty of choice

Manufacturers have focused on the SUV segment for many of their hybrids, so there’s plenty of choice out there from all different types of companies.

Lower servicing costs

Hybrids tend to require less servicing than traditional petrol and diesel cars, so they’re cheaper in this area too. This is because they are typically easier on consumables such as brake pads due to the regenerative braking functionality.

What should you consider before buying a used hybrid SUV?

Though buying a used hybrid SUV should be pretty straightforward, there are some aspects that you need to consider before you dive in and grab a new set of keys. For instance:

Type of driving

You need to think about the type of driving you do most often. If you’re a high-mileage, long-distance driver then a hybrid might not prove to be the most efficient. In these instances, traditional petrol and diesel models can prove better on fuel.

Charging

If you’re buying a plug-in hybrid SUV, then you’ll need to consider how you’ll charge it up. These models need to be kept topped-up to be at their most efficient, so having handy charging options is paramount. With self-charging hybrids, you don’t need to worry about plugging in to charge.

Overall interior space

Though still spacious, some SUVs do have a smaller boot than ‘traditional’ equivalents, so it’s a good idea to check these facts and figures out first if outright spaciousness is what you’re after.

The best hybrid SUVs

We’ve got loads of options to check out when it comes to the best used hybrid SUVs, so there should be something for everyone. Let’s check them out.

  • Mitsubishi Outlander
  • Toyota RAV4
  • Audi Q5 TFSI e
  • Ford Kuga
  • Lexus RX
  • Volvo XC90
  • Kia Sportage
  • Suzuki Vitara
  • BMW X5 45e
  • Range Rover

1. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (2013-2021)

The Outlander could be credited as the car which started off the hybrid SUV craze. It’s a model that delivers a robust, family-friendly interior alongside running costs that could be superbly low. As a plug-in hybrid, it does rely on being connected to the mains as often as possible as it’s with full batteries that it’ll deliver its best efficiency.

It’s easily one of the best used hybrid SUVs currently available, and because of its popularity, there are loads of great examples currently available on the used market. The growing number of used hybrids available has seen Outlander prices fall, too, so there’s some great scope for a very wallet-friendly purchase.

A spacious cabin with plenty of headroom means it’s great for all types of adventures. Remember that the plug-in hybrid Outlander is only available with five seats – not seven, like the standard petrol models.

Best Features

  • Hard-wearing materials inside that’ll still look good after years of heavy use
  • This generation of Outlander was updated in 2015 and 2019, so prices will reflect this
  • Plug-in hybrid has a towing capacity of 1500kg
Things to consider
  • Many examples of the Outlander have high mileage – so make sure they’ve been maintained properly
  • Plug-in hybrid version doesn’t have a third row of seats
  • Outlander gained a five-star safety rating at Euro NCAP when launched – but other more modern cars will get better safety tech

2. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2016-2019)

Toyota has fine form when it comes to hybrids. It has been fond of the powertrain for quite some time and it was put to great used in the RAV4. Previously, the RAV4 had been known as a more off-road-focused model, but the version which arrived in 2016 had more of an eye on efficiency.

The petrol-electric setup is great when it comes to fuel costs, but it’s also a ‘regular’ hybrid so you don’t need to plug it in. However, it can’t run on electric-only power for long stretches, but instead uses it at lower speeds such as when parking or reversing.

Still, this can really help to reduce fuel bills, particularly if you live in urban areas where you’re often queueing in traffic. But it’s still very practical while all models get loads of equipment that can help make everyday life a little easier.

Best Features

  • The RAV4’s slightly boxy design means it’s got lots of headroom to offer – great if you or your passengers are slightly taller
  • All versions get features such as air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity as standard
  • Toyota has a great reputation for reliability, so the RAV4 Hybrid shouldn’t cause too many mechanical issues
Things to consider
  • There were a few recalls of the RAV4 – some models built between 2016 and 2017, for example, could suffer from a fuel leak – so make sure any work has been completed
  • As a large car, the RAV4 might be a little more prone to car park dings and scrapes – so make sure you check out the bodywork on any car you’re seeing
  • As a ‘regular’ hybrid, the RAV4 is great if you’ve not got access to charging

 

3. Audi Q5 TFSI e (2017-present)

The Q5 is one of the heavyweights in the SUV segment and has recently soared to become one of Audi’s most popular models. It’s easy to see why, too, as the Q5 has all the space that you’d expect from a regular SUV but it also gets loads of premium features that the Audi badge tends to bring.

The plug-in hybrid version – badged TFSI e – throws some added efficiency into the mix. It also makes it into one of the best used hybrid SUVs available today, as you’re getting all of the space and practicality of the regular Q5 but with a powertrain which can really help to reduce running costs.

As with other plug-in hybrids here, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got somewhere to charge the Q5 TFSI e up. However, do that and you’ll be rewarded with a car with very few drawbacks.

Best Features

  • The Q5 TFSI e has a really nice interior with loads of good materials which help it to feel special
  • All versions get plenty of equipment from the off
  • A facelift arrived in 2019 – so look out for these models if you want more up-to-date features inside
Things to consider
  • With its Audi badging, the Q5 will cost slightly more than others on this list
  • You will need access to reliable charging to keep the Q5 at its most efficient
  • Mild-hybrid versions are available if you don’t want a plug-in version

 

4. Ford Kuga (2021-present)

The Kuga is a great all-rounder. Ford has always taken a value-orientated approach to it, ensuring that it’s accessible to families or drivers who need a low-cost way of getting around. Later on in its lifetime, a plug-in hybrid version was added which, despite raising the Kuga’s price slightly, managed to maintain its spaciousness levels while making it cheaper to run.

You’re getting loads of great equipment included from the off with the Kuga, however, with features such as cruise control and automatic lights being included on all models. If you’re after bells and whistles, this could be the right car for you.

The plug-in hybrid model is also pretty decent when it comes to acceleration – it can do zero to 60mph in 8.4 seconds – so it’s quite a bit zippier than you might think. It’s also got a great boot which can easily swallow up loads of kit.

Best Features

  • The Kuga PHEV combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and batteries, so you’ve got a good-size engine to fall back on when out of charge
  • All cars get a large infotainment system as standard
  • Though some harsher plastics are used inside, they’re hard wearing and will be easy to clean
Things to consider
  • The plug-in hybrid Kuga was quite a recent model, so expect to pay a little more as a result
  • Mild-hybrid versions of the Kuga are available and will be cheaper to buy
  • You’ll need access to charging to get the best efficiency from the Kuga PHEV

 

5. Lexus RX 450h (2016-2022)

If there’s a car company that knows a thing or two about hybrids, it’s Lexus. Creator of a vast swathe of battery-enhanced models, it’s a company that has been seen as a go-to in the luxury hybrid segment for a little while.

The RX is the firm’s largest SUV and, as a result, its most spacious. Lexus cars have always been designed to be both luxurious and a little different from the norm, so they’re a great choice for drivers who want to stand out from the crowd.

The RX gets loads of equipment as standard, while a dynamic ‘F Sport’ grade adds in some – as you’d expect – sportier touches to make this into a very attractive-looking used hybrid SUV. It’s not a plug-in, either, so you don’t have to worry about connecting it to the mains at the end of the day.

Best Features

  • Hybrid setup is designed to run on electric-only power whenever possible, but the V6 engine it’s linked to is smooth and quiet as well
  • Large, spacious interior is great for families
  • Higher-spec versions get a huge 12.3-inch infotainment display
Things to consider
  • The RX was also produced as a seven-seater version – badged RX L – from 2018
  • The RX does have a slightly smaller boot than many rivals
  • The main screen is controlled with a ‘mouse’ which takes a little getting used to

 

6. Volvo XC90 T8 (2015-present)

As far as family-friendly hybrid SUVs go, the XC90 is bang on the money. It’s a large, comfortable seven-seater which is packed with safety tech and loads of features designed to make life a little easier. Plus – and fittingly for this list – it’s available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

You’ll find the plug-in hybrid version of the XC90 wearing a ‘T8’ badge, which means it combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors and a battery. It’s quite a potent setup, too, but can deliver some great efficiency when it is kept charged up.

It’s also superb place to spend time. The seats are comfortable, while the process of getting the middle row lowered to access the rear seats is a breeze. The XC90 also has a great track record for safety, with even early models fitted with loads of assistance equipment as standard.

Best Features

  • Seven-seat configuration means the XC90 is a very versatile option
  • Only ‘T8’ versions use a plug-in hybrid setup
  • The XC90’s hasn’t changed much over time, so an earlier model won’t feel ‘old’ at all
Things to consider
  • As with others here, you’ll need to keep the T8 topped up with charge to keep it operating as cleanly as possible
  • Later versions are available with a mild-hybrid setup
  • Quite a small boot when all seven seats are in place

 

7. Kia Sportage (2022-present)

Okay, so this generation of Sportage might make it one of the newest cars on this list, but because of this Kia’s low cost to begin with it makes for a superb used buy. Striking and innovative, it’s a great example of how far Kia has come in recent years.

It’s also available with mild-hybrid, hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups, so there really is something to cater for everyone. You’ll also find great levels of equipment inside, while the build quality of this used hybrid SUV has come on in leaps and bounds for this latest generation.

The styling of the new Sportage is really eye-catching, too, and will definitely get people talking. Inside, it’s got loads of space while its boot will happily take trips to the shops, summer holiday adventures and everything else in between.

Best Features

  • All versions get alloy wheels, air conditioning and smartphone mirroring software as standard
  • The Sportage is really comfortable and great for long-distance drivers as a result
  • Despite not being on sale for all that long, there are loads of examples available on Motors.co.uk
Things to consider
  • The Sportage comes with a seven-year transferrable warranty – so make sure any car you’re looking at comes with the right paperwork for this
  • Higher-spec models can creep up in price, but ‘regular’ versions still get more than enough equipment
  • Make sure you check versions with big alloy wheels out for kerb damage

 

8. Suzuki Vitara (2015-present)

The thought of a Vitara probably conjures up images of a dinky off-roader tackling some tricky conditions. But in recent times, the Vitara has evolved to become a more on-road-focused model that goes big on value-for-money.

Still on sale today, the latest Vitara implemented smooth-running mild-hybrid technology in its engines from 2019, when a facelift saw its 1.4-litre ‘Boosterjet’ motor linked to a compact motor and battery for more efficient running.

But you can also get the Vitara with a 1.5-litre-based ‘full hybrid’ system, which will deliver better efficiency than the mild-hybrid version. Either way, you’re getting a car that feels nice and light to drive but still has that raised seating position you’re after from a usual SUV.

The Vitara isn’t too large, either, so it remains easy to park, unlike other larger options on this list. Light steering only makes this better.

Best Features

  • Vitara is available with both mild- and plug-in hybrid setups
  • All versions get lots of equipment including air conditioning and cruise control
  • The 2019 facelift helped to improve the materials used inside
Things to consider
  • Watch out for ‘S’ models – they’ve got stiffer suspensions aren’t the most comfortable as a result
  • ‘Boosterjet’ refers to Suzuki’s turbocharger technology
  • Four-wheel-drive remains available on Vitara models

9. BMW X5 40e (2013-2018)

BMW’s SUV is a proper heavyweight in the SUV segment. It has been around for a while, after all, but in the previous generation car that it first came about with a hybrid setup.

The plug-in hybrid X5 – badged ’40e’ combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, and you should be able to get around 15 miles of electric-only power – so it’s great for the school run. You’ll be able to do plenty of driving without troubling the petrol engine whatsoever.

This fourth-generation X5 is also really nicely put together inside, with good materials and solid build quality that’ll ensure it can put up with being relied upon day in, day out. However, in typical BMW fashion, the X5 is still great to drive despite being impressively practical. This plug-in hybrid delivers more than enough performance for all occasions, too – it’s a great all-rounder.

Best Features

  • The X5 is more dynamic to drive than rivals, so it’s good for your favourite twisty road
  • A large boot can easily take lots of luggage or shopping
  • Rear-seat passengers get plenty of room to stretch out relax
Things to consider
  • ‘Regular’ models of this generation of X5 could have seven-seats – the hybrid is five-seats-only
  • As a BMW, expect slightly higher prices – even for higher-mileage versions
  • Older examples might not be able to return quite as much electric range

10. Range Rover P400e (2013-2022)

We’re finishing on a high with the Range Rover – arguably one of the best used hybrid SUVs. Though usually associated with big, thirsty engines, this generation of Range Rover was actually available with a plug-in hybrid setup, badged ‘P400e’.

Of course, as with any Range Rover, you’re getting loads of luxury. The seating position for both drivers and passengers is high and commanding, so you’ve got a great view of the road ahead and the surrounding areas.

The plug-in hybrid is just as adept at off-roading as the ‘regular’ versions, too, with Jaguar Land Rover’s clever four-wheel-drive systems there to rely on when things get sticky. Winter tyres will make the Range Rover a real asset for those who live in areas where it tends to snow or get icy over winter, too. The plug-in hybrid setup, meanwhile, helps dial out some of the higher costs usually associated with Range Rover ownership.

Best Features

  • You can’t fault the quality feel of a Range Rover – it feels superb inside
  • Off-road tech makes this a car that’ll tackle anything you can throw at it
  • Plug-in hybrid versions help to reduce fuel bills
Things to consider
  • Range Rovers will cost more to maintain – so be prepared for higher bills
  • The 2.0-litre hybrid will need to be kept charged up, otherwise, it can feel a touch underpowered
  • Depreciation is a killer for Range Rovers – so be prepared for values to go down

Tips for finding and buying a used hybrid SUV

Finding and buying a used hybrid SUV should be easy. There are plenty of examples currently available on Motors.co.uk and they all fit a variety of needs and budgets. We’ve also got a wide selection of reviews – including those on the Motors YouTube channel that can help make finding your ideal hybrid SUV as simple as can be.

As always, you should test drive any car you’re thinking of buying and make sure that you ask plenty of questions. Plus, it could be worth paying to get a background history check done on any vehicle you’re interested in – it can flag up outstanding finance, or if the car has previously been written off.

With Motors.co.uk, you can also easily specify that you’re looking for a hybrid vehicle with our handy search function, plus you can find one nearby to your location so you don’t need to travel far.

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