The contenders

BMW X1 xDrive25e M Sport

List price when new £40,580
Price today £31,000
Available from 2015-2022

The oldest generation of our bunch, but this plug-in hybrid version helps keeps the X1 fresh

Cupra Formentor e-Hybrid 245 VZ2

List price when new £40,260
Price today £33,000
Available from 2020-present

Its sharp exterior hints at sporty performance, so is the Formentor the driver’s choice? 

Volvo XC40 Recharge T4 R-Design

List price when new £39,445
Price today £35,000
Available from 2017-present

Safe and spacious, the XC40 looks to be a great choice for families

*Price today is based on a 2021 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing

Since the pandemic, hybrid working has become the norm, with many people spending some days in an office and some at home, so they get the benefits of both. Similar thinking has inspired the current profusion of plug-in hybrid cars (PHEVs). 

PHEVs both petrol and electric power at your disposal, potentially allowing fuel economy and performance to soar to new heights. That makes them compelling propositions for many buyers – even more so when desirable SUV exteriors are draped over them. Which brings us to the three models we’re testing here: the BMW X1 xDrive25e, the Cupra Formentor e-Hybrid 245 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge T4.