The plug-in hybrids with the longest electric range in 2025 — and how far they really go
PHEVs are going further on electric power than ever before, but which ones come out on top? Picture: Larry Cummins
Plug-in hybrids have been rising in popularity in recent years as they offer the ability to run on electric power for part of the journey, while still having a combustion engine to rely on for longer trips.
Many manufacturers now see plug-in hybrids – or PHEVs – as a key part of their electrification strategies. As a result, we’re seeing more advanced models arriving that can travel on electric-only power for increasingly longer distances. Here, we look at the PHEVs that can travel the furthest on battery power alone.
Newcomer Omoda has launched a plug-in hybrid offering the best electric-only range of up to 150km. It’s an impressive distance, allowing this comfortable SUV to tackle longer journeys without needing to call on the 1.5-litre petrol engine too often.
The Omoda 9’s large 34.46kWh battery is similar in size to those found in compact electric vehicles, helping this sizeable SUV achieve excellent overall efficiency.
The Tiggo 9, also part of the Chery family, offers a similarly long electric-only range. With its substantial battery, the Tiggo 9 can cover up to 146km on electric power alone. Its maximum charging speed of 71kW allows a 30–80% recharge in just 18 minutes.
Standard equipment is generous, with all versions featuring heated and ventilated seats and dual-zone climate control.
Chinese manufacturers continue to dominate the PHEV segment, and the BYD Seal 6 DM-i is no exception. With an electric-only range of 140km, it’s among the longest of any plug-in hybrid on sale.
Top-spec Comfort models can charge at up to 26kW, achieving a 15–100% recharge in 23 minutes.
The Seal 6 DM-i is available in both saloon and Touring body styles.
The Skoda Superb iV represents the first non-Chinese entry on this list, offering an electric-only range of up to 135km.
The Superb’s refined ride and spacious interior make it a strong long-distance cruiser. Available as a hatchback or estate, it also boasts a large boot and premium materials throughout.
It’s no surprise that Volkswagen’s Passat eHybrid follows the Superb closely – the two share a platform and much of their technology.
Like its Skoda sibling, the Passat is a comfortable, roomy cruiser that can deliver up to 130km of electric-only range.
Volkswagen recently added Match and Black Edition trims, each with an upgraded level of standard equipment and design features.
The Audi Q3 might be compact, but in e-hybrid form it’s impressively capable, offering up to 118km on a single charge.
It’s also the most tech-packed Q3 to date, featuring a new steering control system that integrates wiper, light, and gear functions into two multifunction stalks.
Boot space is generous at 488 litres, expandable to 575 litres by sliding the rear seats forward.
Finally, there’s the Mercedes GLC 300e, a long-time favourite in the brand’s range, sitting neatly between the smaller GLA and larger GLE models.
It combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 31.2kWh battery, giving up to 125km of electric range. It can also charge at up to 60 kW, allowing a full charge in just over 30 minutes.
