More complex models with longer electric ranges coming to the market as popularity grows
In fact, many manufacturers see plug-in hybrids – or PHEVs – as a key part of their future electrification strategies, which is why we’re seeing more complex models arriving on the market that can travel on electric-only power for longer. Here, we’re going to check out the PHEVs that can travel the furthest on battery power alone.
BYD Seal U: 140km
The China-based manufacturers have been delivering in the plug-in hybrid segment, which is probably why the BYD Seal U is also one of the PHEVs with the longest electric range.
At 140km, it’s a respectable distance, while top-spec cars can be charged at speeds of up to 26kW for a 15-100pc charge in 23 minutes.
BYD Seal U has one of the longest PHEV ranges
It is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine twinned to an electric motor and 18kWh battery and has a combined range of 1,080km. Perfect for those wanting to ease themselves into full electrification. Available in three trims: Boost, Comfort and Design. Prices for the mid-sized SUV start at €41,150.
Skoda Superb iV PHEV: 135km
An absolute firm favourite with Irish motorists for years, and it’s still leading the way for comfort, style and tech.
This luxury saloon, which would give BMW, Mercedes and Audi a run for its money, comes with an EV range of 135km.
The Skoda Superb Combi leads the way for comfort, style and tech
Noted for its great refinement and large, spacious cabin this new addition make for an excellent long-distance model and proper alternative to diesel.
Available in estate form, the Super also comes with a very large boot at 690 litres and lots of high-quality materials inside.
Prices start from €50,900.
Mercedes GLC300e: 125km
Next up, we’ve got the Mercedes GLC300e. The GLC has been a mainstay in the German car giant’s range for decades, occupying a handy space between smaller GLA and larger GLE models, bringing a “best of both worlds” scenario for many drivers.
The GLC has been a Mercedes mainstay for decades
In GLC300e form, it gets a 2.0-litre turbo-charged petrol engine linked to a 31.2kWh battery, which can help it deliver up to 125km of electric-only range. Plus, it can charge at speeds of up to 60kW, meaning a full charge in just over 30 minutes.
Prices start at €81,440.
Volkswagen Tayron: 118km
Those looking for something a bit larger and more robust should consider Volkswagen’s new Tayron. It’s basically a replacement for the Tiguan Allspace, although its looks bigger.
The Volkswagen Tayron is a more robust option
Unfortunately, the PHEV is not a seven-seater as the battery is too bulky, but it boasts a range of 118km from its 1.5-litre petrol engine that’s twinned to a 85kWh motor and 19kWh battery, that generate a meaty 204bhp. It has a massive 705-litre boot which expands to 1,915 with the seats folded flat.
Prices start at €56,940.
Audi Q3 e-hybrid: 117km
Audi’s new Q3 might be a compact model but in e-hybrid form, it’s impressively electrified with a range of up to 117km coming from a single charge, which takes around three hours to juice up from a home wall box.
The latest model is by far the most tech-packed to date, too, alongside a new “steering wheel control unit” which essentially integrates many key functions into one stalk. On the left-hand stalk, you now get wiper and light functions, while the right looks after gears.
There’s a handy 488-litre boot, too, which can be expanded to 575 litres by sliding the rear seats forward as far as they can go. We are very much looking forward to testing the Q3 soon.
Prices start at €51,528.
