SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) have been big business for manufacturers in the past decade, and their popularity does not look to be waning any time soon.
Because of this, it has been crucial for some manufacturers to create SUVs that are not only plush inside, but efficient and economical. Given that electric vehicles (EVs) are not to everyone's taste, that brings us onto hybrids, which offer a middle-ground between efficiency and everyday usability.
Below, we have highlighted five of the best mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and full hybrid (HEV) SUVs that are available on the used car market. And because luxury is a desirable trait in a modern SUV, we have selected cars that meet that criteria, too.
Contents
- BMW X5
- Mercedes-Benz GLA
- Land Rover Discovery Sport
- Audi Q5
- Volvo XC90
- Porsche Cayenne
- Lexus RX
- Jaguar F-PACE
- Maserati Levante
- MINI Countryman
BMW X5
- Powerful performance
- Sporty appearance
- Impressive electric range in plug-in hybrid variants
One of the original founders of luxurious SUVs, it is only right that the BMW X5 gets the first mention. If you want hybrid power, then you will need to opt for the X5 xDrive45e. While the name is a bit of a mouthful, the vehicle itself is very impressive.
Under the bonnet lies a 3.0-litre petrol engine that has been combined with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology to give this version of the X5 a colossal 389bhp. Despite the power figures, the X5 xDrive45e can travel up to 54 miles on electric power alone; it can even achieve up to 235mpg when the batteries are charged.
Typical of a BMW, the interior of the X5 is a soothing place to spend time. Quality materials feature on every surface, while the brand's widescreen infotainment system is among the best in the business. What is more, the cabin is whisper-quiet at speed, which is a welcome trait.
Search Used BMW X5Mercedes-Benz GLA
- Advanced technology
- Effortless to drive
- Efficient hybrid powertrains
A natural rival to BMW, it is no surprise to see a Mercedes-Benz featuring in this list. Although the GLC is very similar to the X5 mentioned above, we are going to focus on the GLA; most specifically, the GLA 250 e.
Based on the A-Class, the GLA is an accomplished SUV that combines additional practicality with the excellent driving dynamics of its sibling. With a 1.3-litre petrol engine and plug-in hybrid technology, the GLA can achieve the 0 to 62mph sprint in 7.1 seconds, and can drive up to 37 miles on battery power alone.
Because it is based on the A-Class, the interior of the GLA does not disappoint. The MBUX multimedia system is among the class leaders, offering intuitive use of the car's features. Elsewhere, you will find soft-touch materials surrounding the high-quality switchgear.
Search Used Mercedes-Benz GLALand Rover Discovery Sport
- Off-road capabilities
- Spacious cabin
- Premium build quality
Land Rover are renowned for creating vehicles that can tackle the great outdoors, regardless of whether it is snow or muddy fields. Now, imagine taking class-leading off-road ability and mixing it with remarkable efficiency: that is quite the recipe.
That is where the Discovery Sport comes in, more specifically the P300e. Boasting a 1.5-litre petrol engine and plug-in hybrid technology, the 0 to 62mph dash takes just 6.2 seconds; an impressive feat for an SUV this size. Despite this, the P300e can travel up to 34 miles on battery power alone.
Land Rover have a knack with interior design, where the materials feel robust and hard-wearing, yet still look and feel premium. A 10-inch infotainment system takes centre stage, while an interactive driver display really adds to the ambience of the Discovery Sport's cabin. Remarkably, up to seven people can enjoy the interior because of the extra seats in the back that reveal themselves when required.
Search Used Land Rover Discovery SportAudi Q5
- Refined and quiet ride
- High quality, refined interior
- Sleek appearance
Completing the trio of premium German manufacturers is Audi, who are responsible for the Q5 TFSI e you see here. A desirable feature of the Audi is that it comes with the brand's legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system, which should prove beneficial during the winter months.
Unlike the other SUVs on this list, the Q5 is available with two different power outputs, which are both derived from a 2.0-litre petrol engine and plug-in hybrid technology. The entry-level 50 TFSI e produces 300bhp, while a more potent 55 TFSI e is available with 365bhp should you want more performance.
Audi's interior design are among the most elegant on the market, with premium materials complementing the ergonomic switchgear. The front sports seats that feature as standard provide plenty of support, yet are immensely comfortable over longer distances.
Search Used Audi Q5Volvo XC90
- Exceptional safety and technology
- Affordable to buy and run
- Generous electric range
Volvo have always had a reputation for safety and dependability, but it is only in recent years that they have become a manufacturer geared towards luxury. However, the XC90 has always been a premium vehicle, which reflects in the XC90 Recharge model you see here.
Similar to the Audi, the XC90 Recharge comes with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, as well as plug-in hybrid technology. However, the Volvo produces more power, which is rated at 390bhp. Deployed through an 8-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive, this XC90 can achieve 0 to 62mph in just 5.5 seconds, yet can travel circa 42 miles on battery power alone.
Inside, the XC90 is bright and airy thanks to an open cabin design. What is more, the materials are of a high quality and beautifully moulded together. A central touchscreen adds to the opulence of the interior, and offers swift navigation of the vehicle's menus.
Search Used Volvo XC90Porsche Cayene
- Superb performance
- Premium interior
- Excellent standard technology
When it comes to juggling luxury and efficient plug-in hybrid performance, few SUVs can match the Porsche Cayenne, especially while looking the part, too.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a powerful 462bhp. It can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 5.0 seconds, while still offering an electric-only range of up to 46 miles.
Typical of Porsche, the interior showcases a sporty, luxurious feel, with comfortable seating and an intuitive touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, making every journey a pleasure.
Search Used Porsche CayenneLexus RX
- Premium interior
- Smooth and quiet hybrid system
- Safe and reliable
Sitting towards the top of the Lexus range, the RX is a great alternative to compact SUVs, offering more space, comfort, and refinement. There is plenty of choice when it comes to powertrains, with both plug-in and self-charging hybrid variants on offer.
The first powertrain in the line-up comes in the form of the 350h; a self-charging hybrid with a 2.5-litre petrol engine, producing 247bhp and a 0 to 62mph time of 7.9 seconds. For more power, the 500h pairs a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, delivering 366bhp and a 0 to 62mph sprint of 6.2 seconds.
If you'd prefer charging your RX for longer electric range, The 450h+ plug-in hybrid is available, providing 304bhp, a 6.5-second 0 to 62mph time, and an electric-only range of 42 miles.
The interior quality of the RX is where it particularly stands out, delivering a truly premium experience. Even the entry-level model features soft-touch materials and synthetic leather, while higher trims boast genuine leather upholstery and elegant wood inlays for an elevated feel.
Search Used Lexus RXJaguar F-PACE
- Bold aesthetics
- Balanced ride and handling
- Luxurious feel
A classic when it comes to luxury SUVs, the F-PACE is the largest model in Jaguar's range, making it the most suitable choice for those who value practicality and interior space.
The Jaguar F-PACE offers a notable hybrid option with the P400e plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 398bhp. This hybrid setup offers impressive performance, with plenty of instant torque thanks to the electric motor, and it can cover up to 40 miles on electric power alone.
Step inside the Jaguar F-PACE and you will discover a world of luxury, with an abundance of advanced technology and exceptional comfort, even during longer journeys. The technology is impressive, with a user-friendly Pivi Pro infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Search Used Jaguar F-PACEMaserati Levante
- Unique Italian flair
- Premium interior
- Practical mild-hybrid powertrain
Few SUVs ooze luxury like the Maserati Levante, and being a premium Italian vehicle, it is distinctly stylish and powerful, too. Buying a used Levante means you unlock the opportunity to own a high-end SUV at a more accessible price, all while enjoying a level of refinement and design that is hard to match in the SUV segment.
There are a couple of mild-hybrid options available in the range. The entry-level GT Hybrid features a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 326bhp, offering brisk acceleration and a more efficient drive than previous petrol or diesel versions, with an official 27.6mpg.
The Modena and Modena S models provide even more power, coming with a 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 347bhp and 427bhp and achieving around 22.8 to 26mpg.
The driving experience is equally impressive. The all-wheel-drive system ensures a secure and confident drive, while the handling characteristics are far more nimble than you'd expect from an SUV of its size.
Search Used Maserati LevanteMINI Countryman
- Retro styling
- Fun and engaging to drive
- Clever technology even in older models
As one of the most charismatic and charming SUVs on the market today, the MINI Countryman has made a name for itself since its debut in 2010. Since then, it has come a long way, adding modern styling, the latest tech, and even efficient plug-in hybrid technology to the range.
The Countryman Cooper S E features a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 224bhp. With this hybrid setup, it offers a smooth blend of electric-only driving for short trips, providing up to 25 miles of range on a full charge.
The ALL4 all-wheel drive system ensures confidence and stability, while the petrol engine and electric motor work in harmony to provide an engaging and responsive driving experience.
Beyond its hybrid engine, the MINI Countryman offers a range of advanced technology. The latest models feature a sleek infotainment system with an intuitive touchscreen display featuring navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and wireless charging.
Drivers also benefit from a variety of safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and parking sensors.
Search Used MINI CountrymanDiscover your next luxury hybrid SUV through Stratstone
In the past, SUVs did not have a reputation for being efficient. However, times have evidently changed with the introduction of hybrid technology, which reduces emissions, improves economy and provides extra flexibility when driving. The vehicles above are evidence you really can have good economy and luxury in an SUV.
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