You’re thinking about a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and why wouldn’t you be? All the benefits of electric running, with the peace of mind that comes with a petrol or diesel engine to keep you going on longer runs, or when charging opportunities are in short supply. The best of both worlds, right?
But before you start shopping, it’s worth doing your homework on the pros and cons of PHEV technology. And don’t get confused with the mild hybrids that are on offer, too; you can’t plug a mild hybrid in, as it only has a small amount of electric power to help with efficiency.
Our guide answers PHEV-related questions including ‘if they’ve got a petrol engine, why bother charging them’, so it’s a good place to start before you consider which PHEV is right for you.
Most manufacturers offer plug-in hybrids, of course, but Mercedes now produces some of the longest-range plug-in hybrid vehicles on sale – and it’s the only manufacturer to offer diesel plug-in hybrid, too. For the best of both worlds with super-efficient diesel power and enough electric range to cover a few days of commuting for most of us Brits.
Here's our rundown of all the plug-in hybrid cars in the Mercedes range:
Mercedes A-Class
Price from: £41,000
Electric range: 47 - 52 miles
The Mercedes A250 e is a smart, compact plug-in hybrid that you can have in either hatchback or saloon guise, so that you can have the family friendly option or the full business ‘mini C-Class’ feel. The 1.3-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine is punchy and fun, and the standard eight-speed automatic gearbox keeps things smooth. Benefit in Kind rates start from just 9%, which is a key reason why this is such a popular option with company car users. It’s a great all-rounder that feels posh yet is comparably good value.
Mercedes CLA
Price from: £45,655
Electric range: 48 - 53 miles
The CLA is the executive express version of the A-Class: It uses the same platform, and the same 1.3-litre petrol-electric PHEV powertrain, complete with XXXbhp going to the front wheels. But the sleek, four-door CLA coupe and five-door CLA Shooting Brake look a cut above and exude a sportier, sophisticated edge that has seen it become one of the most popular Merc models. With CO2 from 22g/km, and 0-62mph in a hearty 7.6 seconds, it’s sensible yet aspirational – and fun!
Mercedes CLE
Price from: £60,720
Electric range: 69 miles
The Mercedes CLE is a big, lavish two-door coupe or cabriolet, and you can get both with the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol-electric PHEV powertrain. The big, 25.4kWh lithium-ion battery is good for an official WLTP range of 69 miles, too, so it’ll cover most daily journeys for the average UK driver. Not that you’re average if you’re going for the CLE, obviously. This classy GT-coupe drives sweetly and promises to be sumptuous and satisfying.
Mercedes E-Class
Price from: £65,720
Electric range: 67 - 70 miles
The Merc E-Class has been a default premium saloon for many decades, and the new one demonstrates why. It’s the only car in its class that you can have with diesel or electric in the E300 de and E300 e, respectively, plus the electric range keep CO2 and company car tax to an absolute minimum. Everything about it feels suave and precise – whether you go for the sleek saloon or the practical estate. We’ll take an E300 de estate, thanks…
Mercedes S-Class
Price from: £111,665
Electric range: 61 - 68 miles
The Mercedes S-Class has led the luxury saloon classes for many decades, often showcasing new tech and efficiency. The S-Class PHEV gets a silky, in-line six cylinder petrol engine and a 22kWh NMC battery, and is one of the most capable and refined limos you can buy (or be driven in). Whether you go for the standard S 450 e or the rapid S 580 e with its 4.9 second 0-62mph time, it’s a world class luxury vehicle.
Mercedes GLA
Price from: £45,630
Electric range: 43 - 45 miles
Believe it or not, underneath its SUV exterior the popular GLA is an A-Class, and it gets the same 1.3-litre petrol-electric PHEV powertrain. Which is fine, as it’s a fizzy and energetic system that makes the GLA feel nippy, while the electric range covers the average daily commute in the UK twice over. All in a family-friendly, useful SUV body. Nice.
Mercedes GLC
Price from: £64,470
Electric range: 71 - 74 miles
The Mercedes GLC PHEV really is all the family SUV you could ever need. A spacious, luxury family car, complete with an electric range that’ll see you on zero emission running for at least 60 miles in the real world. Add to that the choice of a 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engine, and a sports-coupe body or a full SUV shape, and it’s hard to think of a lifestyle it doesn’t suit whether you’re a business user or a retail buyer.
Mercedes GLE
Price from: £77,470
Electric range: 59 - 68 miles
The GLE is all the lavishness of the E-Class, but in versatile SUV form. With its 31kWh li-ion NMC battery, it’ll officially cover nearly 70 miles on electric power, and we found that it’ll do 55- to 60 miles in the real world even at motorway speeds. You’ve also got the option of petrol or diesel, and you get fast 60kW rapid charging so that you can make the most of the electric running with quick top-ups at the motorway services. You can get it with a slick, coupe roofline as well, if you fancy a sportier look for your swish plug-in SUV.
