Most Economical Hybrid Cars of 2023

Most economical hybrid cars of 2023

There are two types of hybrid, typically known as 'self-charging hybrids' or 'plug-in hybrids'.

As the name suggests, plug-in models can have their batteries topped up by plugging into a charger. However, the self-charging models simply top up their battery using the brakes and engine on the move. Although the potential fuel economy isn't as impressive as a plug-in, you don't have to worry about charging, and they still use less fuel than non-hybrid models. They're cheaper than plug-in models, too.

If you’re buying a hybrid, you’re probably buying it for one reason only — fuel economy. So here are 10 of the most economical self-charging hybrids on sale today.

Are hybrid cars more economical than conventional petrol or diesel cars?

They can be, but it depends on the car and how you drive it. Previously, most hybrids were only economical around town and got wildly thirsty on long motorway runs, but thankfully those days have largely passed. Now, most hybrids can offer good economy on longer runs, and the best can break the 60mpg barrier.

Our fuel chooser tool can help you decide if a petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric car is right for you.

How far can a hybrid car go on electric power alone?

A hybrid car will only go for a short distance on electric power — say, a few miles at best — but the point is that a hybrid recharges its small battery as it drives, from the engine and from braking, so you get that electric mile back again, over and over. Hence the good fuel economy. A plug-in hybrid car, when charged up from the mains, will go much further on electricity but will penalise you with worse fuel economy on long runs when you’re using the petrol engine.

How can I improve the fuel economy of my hybrid car?

The short answer? Drive carefully. That sounds trite, but it’s true. The trick with a hybrid is to make the most of its electric power, so if you accelerate gently, the car can stick with electric power for longer, before it needs to wake the petrol engine up. Do that enough and you’ll maximise your electric running time, and minimise your fuel consumption. You can do other things, such as making sure that the car is serviced regularly, have the tyres set to the right pressures, take off any roof-racks and take any excess baggage out of the boot, but driving carefully is the best thing of all for economy.

To find out more ways in which you can improve your fuel economy and save money at the pumps, check out our guide on ways to get better mpg.

Compare the most economical hybrid cars