The automotive world is smitten with electric and hybrid SUVs.
And so are we! By 2035 all new cars sold will either have to be electric or hybrid, so why not get ahead of the curve and take a look at what’s on offer now
Technology has come on in leaps and bounds over the last few years with motor shows being flooded with electric models - including SUVs that ooze style and practicality.
Of course the biggest attraction with hybrid and electric cars is reduced (or no) emissions and lower running costs compared with conventional engines. Here are just a few of the electric and hybrid SUVs currently on the market. We think you’ll agree: they won’t just satisfy your environmental and economic cravings - instant torque means they’re also seriously great to drive.
Jaguar I-Pace
Economy meets superb design in this practically perfect, performance electric SUV.
Sporty looks and luxury make the Jaguar I-PACE a truly individual drive. No wonder it was named as European Car of the Year in 2019.
Interior space is surprising, mainly due to the 90kWh batteries sitting entirely within the wheelbase, providing a low centre of gravity which contributes to well-balanced handling.
This excellent drivability is ably assisted by All Wheel Drive, a responsive engine and enhanced aerodynamics thanks to a low vented bonnet and flat rear end with low drag coefficient. Acceleration is a breeze, reaching 60mph from a standing start in 4.5 seconds.
Thanks to a Home Charging Cable, the Jaguar I-PACE can be fully charged from a domestic socket in just under 13 hours, lasting up to a phenomenal 292 miles. When out and about, simply take advantage of the Jaguar Charger App to help you pinpoint the nearest charging station to top up the batteries, and away you go...
Range Rover PHEV
As with all hybrids and EVs, the Range Rover PHEV enjoys low road tax.
What you may not expect is its fast speed off the blocks: 0 to 62mph in under seven seconds - quite impressive for a vehicle measuring five metres long or more, and weighing over two and a half tonnes.
The size of the Range Rover PHEV provides a reassuring comfort, as does the onboard computer that utilises Parallel Hybrid mode to weigh up the driving conditions to work between the electric motor and petrol engine, ensuring you always have the most economical drive possible.
Using a 7 kW AC home charger it’ll take 5 hours to fully charge your Range Rover and can travel 73.5 miles on all electric power. Land Rover’s first EV is as practical as the rest of the SUV range and now the most Land Rover models have a electric or hybrid option! So check them out here.
Honda CR-V
The fact that one of the world’s most popular SUVs is now available as a hybrid means that the great looks and superior finish of the Honda CR-V can now be enjoyed along with a quieter, more economic engine.
The CR-V is available as a plug-in hybrid and fully hybrid, the fully hybrid provides a range of 596 miles on a full tank and there’s no need to find a charging station, if that’s something you’re worried about.
The CV-R has a bold and sporty design to turn heads where ever you go. Parking sensors and rear-view camera come as standard which, along with the Honda Sensing safety system, will literally keep you on the straight and narrow.
Inside, the Active Noise Control minimises road sound, allowing you to fully appreciate the audio system with 8-speakers, DAB Digital Radio and Honda CONNECT infotainment system, all controlled via a handy touchscreen monitor. All-in-all, you’ll look, sound and feel amazing in the Honda CR-V hybrid.
Audi Q4 e-tron
The Q4 e-tron has a powerful body and large wheels, making it a standout car in the Audi e-tron range. Although it’s a compact SUV, the Q4 interior offers unrestricted space, making for a comfortable driving experience no matter how long your journey is, which can be pretty long considering its 329 mile range.
The Q4 e-tron is packed with the latest Audi technology featuring the Audi Virtual Cockpit, MMI Navigation plus and a 10.1” touchscreen.
When it comes to charging the Q4 e-tron is a great choice if you have reservations about electric vehicles. It charges from 5-80% in 38 minuets at a rapid charging station. When charging at home using a domestic wall charger it will comfortably replenish the battery overnight, just like charging your phone!
PEUGEOT e-3008
The latest in PEUGEOTs electric range this impressive SUV is available as an electric or fully hybrid vehicle. As a 100% electric vehicle the PEUGEOT e-3008 has a range of 326 miles! This should eliminate any range anxiety you might have.
The e-3008 has lots of great features including its impressive 21” panoramic curved HD display. This advanced infotainment system uses voice recognition and smartphone like ergonomics to give you easy control.
It’s a great all round SUV and is sure to turn heads on the road.
With the availability of charging stations improving, electric driving is rising in popularity and brand are releasing new models all the time. It’s an exciting time to be buying a new car!
Pop in to your nearest Swansway Group dealership to find out more about this and our full range of electric and hybrid SUVs for cleaner, greener, more economical motoring