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What is a hybrid car again?

A hybrid car is a model with two different types of propulsion. “Hybrid” literally means “a combination of two different elements or systems. In the case of a car, we are talking about a model equipped with both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Exactly how those engines work together and which engine is leading depends on the type of hybrid car: a mild hybrid, full hybrid, plug-in hybrid or an electric car with a range extender.

SEE ALSO: VIDEO – These 15 new cars are coming to the Netherlands in 2025.

What is a mild hybrid?

A mild hybrid (MHEV) is a relatively simple and inexpensive solution. An MHEV has a small electric motor – usually replacing the traditional starter motor – that supports the internal combustion engine during acceleration. During braking and coasting, the electric motor acts as a generator and energy is stored in a compact battery. A mild hybrid cannot drive fully electric.

What is a full hybrid?

A full hybrid (HEV) has a more powerful electric motor that operates independently of the combustion engine. In addition to helping the combustion engine reduce fuel consumption, an HEV can also drive partially fully electric. Charging the battery is done by the car itself while driving. You don’t have to charge a full hybrid car yourself with a plug.

What is a plug-in hybrid?

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) does require you to charge yourself at a charging station. The operation of a PHEV is fairly similar to an HEV, except that the battery is significantly larger, you can drive many more miles fully electric and also at higher speeds (usually up to 130 km/h).

What is an Extended Range Electric Vehicle?

An Extended Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV) is a car with a range extender, also known as a “range extender. This is basically an electric car that is always electrically powered, but when the battery runs out, a combustion engine comes into play to recharge it, so you can just keep driving until the fuel tank runs out. So in this case, the internal combustion engine works only as a generator and not to drive the wheels.

Hybrid models under 30,000 euros

Few new fuel cars are still being produced without some form of hybrid drive. Even compact cars in lower price ranges often already feature MHEV technology. In this article, however, we focus on HEVs, that is, cars with full hybrid drive with low fuel consumption and that can also be partially fully electric. Those looking for a full hybrid in the price range up to roughly 30,000 euros will have the following models to choose from in 2025.

MG 3 Hybrid+: from €23,420

The MG 3 Hybrid+ is a five-door hatchback with 143 kW (194 hp) of power and a modern look. As we have come to expect from MG, the Chinese brand offers great value for money. You can count on the MG 3 Hybrid+ to be richly equipped with lots of modern technology and fine build quality, for prices that start under 24,000 euros. This makes the MG 3 Hybrid+ the most economical full hybrid car in the Netherlands, with an average gasoline consumption of 4.4 l/100 km.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid: from 25,995

The Toyota Yaris Hybrid is one of the most popular full hybrids in Europe. It also features the most advanced hybrid technology. The model benefits from Toyota’s technological lead, which has been developing hybrid powertrains since the 1990s. The latest Yaris Hybrid delivers 85 kW (116 hp), consumes an average of 3.8 l/100 km and drives fully electric more than half the time in city traffic. Prices start at 25,995 euros.

Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid 145: from 26,890

With its starting price of less than 27,000 euros, the Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid 145 is among the most affordable full hybrid cars of 2025. Thanks to further refined technology, the system switches seamlessly between the gasoline engine and electric motor. With a system output of 105 kW (143 hp), this hybrid version offers smooth performance and dynamic handling. And that combined with French comfort, an attractive interior and low consumption of 4.2 l/100 km on average.

Mitsubishi Colt Hybrid: from 28,495 euros

A surprising hybrid model is the Mitsubishi Colt Hybrid. The latest Colt is largely identical to the Renault Clio (they are also built in the same factory), and the hybrid version of the Colt has the same powertrain as the Clio E-Tech Hybrid. While the Mitsubishi Colt Hybrid is slightly more expensive than the Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid, it is built differently in terms of standard equipment and comes with an extended manufacturer’s warranty of up to 8 years.

MG ZS Hybrid+: from 28,736 euros

The MG ZS came to the Netherlands in 2019 as an all-electric SUV. Meanwhile, the new, second-generation MG ZS is in the showroom, but it is only available as Hybrid+ with the same 1.5-liter gasoline-electric power source as the MG 3 Hybrid+. Given the size and full equipment of this hybrid SUV, the MG ZS Hybrid+ is priced favorably. It comes from 28,736 euros and, according to official figures, it consumes an average of 5.0 l/100 km.

Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid: 29,375 euros

The tougher, SUV-like Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid combines the benefits of a higher seating position with Toyota’s efficient hybrid technology. It features the same full hybrid powertrain as the “regular” Yaris Hybrid, also with 85 kW (116 hp) of power, but in a more robust-looking package. The Yaris Cross appeals to those who want a compact SUV with favorable fuel economy (4.5 l/100 km). The base price is still just under 30,000 euros.

Dacia Jogger Hybrid 140: from 30,000 euros

The Dacia Jogger Hybrid 140 is an interesting option for those looking for a slightly larger car. This is one of the few hybrids that is also available as a seven-seater. With a spacious trunk and flexible seating, the Jogger Hybrid is a great choice for families looking for an economical, versatile car. The price starts at 30,000 euros. The seven-seater is a thousand euros more expensive. Despite coming from the cheaper “budget brand” within the Renault Group, the Dacia Jogger is powered by the same 104 kW (141 hp) hybrid engine as several Renault models. Average gasoline consumption is officially set at 4.7 l/100 km. Incidentally, the Dacia Duster is also available as a full hybrid, but its prices start at 32,000 euros.