Plug-in Hybrid Lease Deals

If standard hybrid vehicles are the ideal middle ground between fully electric cars and traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, then plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are the ideal middle ground between standard hybrids and fully electric vehicles.

Like standard hybrid cars, PHEVs combine electric power with either a petrol or a diesel engine, but instead of charging themselves whilst on the move using regenerative braking, you've got to plug them in to top up the battery – just like with a fully electric car.

PHEVs have a larger and more powerful battery though, so you're going to get more electric range (often 20-80 miles) out of them than standard hybrids, which typically only give you a few miles. That means you'll (probably) be spending less on fuel with a PHEV, especially if you can charge at home.

Petrol plug-in hybrids are much more common, but diesel plug-in hybrids are also a thing.

Where Do I Charge PHEVs?

At home, at work or at the various public charging points dotted all around the country.

Home charging is the cheapest by far, so if you have access to your own driveway or charger, you've hit the jackpot.

Yes, a home charger can cost quite a bit to install, but it'll pay for itself in no time. And various government incentives/grants exist to help make the cost smaller.

Advantages of PHEVs Compared to Regular Hybrids

⚡ Further electric-only range

💷 Lower running costs and fuel consumption (if charged regularly)

🚗 More like driving a fully electric car

🔧 Less need for maintenance/repairs

🌍 Less emissions, as PHEVs rely less on the petrol/diesel engine

⏱️ (Often) better performance because of the larger electric battery

Lease a PHEV with LeaseLoco

As the UK's biggest car lease comparison site, we have access to the most and best leasing partners in the industry, each one of them authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority). And more partners means more choice, better availability, the lowest prices and the best hybrid car lease deals and plug-in hybrid car lease deals on the market.

Not sure what's a good deal? Our unique LocoScore algorithm rates all lease deals from 0 to 100, letting you know what's hot and what's not.

Plus, you get the following fully included with your plug-in hybrid car lease:

✅ Road tax

✅ Manufacturer warranty

✅ Fixed monthly payments

FAQs about Plug-in Hybrid Lease Deals

What is the difference between regular hybrids and plug-in hybrid vehicles?

Regular hybrids and plug-in hybrids both run on an electric motor/battery and either a diesel or a petrol engine. However, plug-in hybrids are closer to full electric vehicles, as they feature a larger, more powerful battery which requires you to plug the vehicle in to a charger. Plug-in hybrids give you a longer electric-only range.

Do plug-in hybrids charge whilst driving?

Yes, like standard hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) also make use of regenerative braking to recapture some of the energy lost whilst driving and turn it back into electric power. However, the larger battery in PHEVs still requires regular plugging in and charging to get the best use out of it.

Is it bad to never plug in a plug-in hybrid vehicle?

Strictly speaking, there's no absolute requirement, but regularly plugging in and charging your PHEV will help maximise its efficiency and mean you're spending less on petrol or diesel fuel.

Can I use my plug-in hybrid for long journeys?

Compared to standard hybrid vehicles, PHEVs are more primed for longer journeys due to their more powerful battery, giving you a longer electric range on the road. With standard hybrid cars, the electric battery can typically only be relied upon for shorter journeys and commutes.

What happens if I run out of battery while driving?

If the battery on your PHEV runs out mid-drive, the vehicle will then switch to its petrol or diesel engine, letting you continue driving without disruption.

Are plug-in hybrids being phased out?

Brand new plug-in hybrid vehicles will eventually be phased out, but not as quickly as new petrol and diesel vehicles. New petrol and diesel vehicles will continue to be sold until 2030, whereas the equivalent date for new PHEVs is 2035. You'll still be able to drive a used PHEV or one that you already own, however.

What is the lifespan of a plug-in hybrid battery?

The battery in a plug-in hybrid will typically last 8 to 10 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles on the road, whichever comes first. With proper maintenance though, it is possible for some to last a bit longer, as the battery's lifespan can be affected by charging habits, driving conditions and general maintenance.