Just because you need a 4x4, doesn't mean you need a big, thirsty engine…
Plenty of clever SUVs blend all-terrain 4WD with the fuel-sipping manners of modern hybrid engines. They're no milk floats on stilts, either – these hybridised options have more than enough brawn for whatever task you throw at them, save for a proper rock-crawling off-road course.
If you're ready to step away from traditional diesel 4x4s, these are the best hybrid 4x4s to buy right now. Most are available as great-value used cars from Motorpoint.
- BMW X1
- Audi Q5
- Range Rover Sport
- Toyota RAV4
- Jeep Compass
- Lexus NX
- Ford Kuga
- Kia Sportage
- Volvo XC60
- Suzuki S-Cross
BMW X1
The latest BMW X1 has gone from strength to strength, adding more performance and efficiency while also enhancing the car's premium look and feel. Gone is the tiny afterthought infotainment screen of the old X1, with a new wide twin-screen setup featuring crisp graphics and a minimalist layout. There's a choice of petrol and diesel engines under the bonnet, plus the fully electric BMW iX1, but we're looking at the xDrive25e and xDrive30e plug-in hybrids that can average more than 300mpg if you recharge regularly.
Find a used BMW X1 for sale or read our BMW X1 review
Audi Q5
The Q5 is among Audi's most popular cars – bringing the brand's signature tech and premium features to the popular family SUV category. As you'd hope, it's very practical, with space for tall adults in both front and rear seats, plus a big boot. The dashboard is festooned with tech, featuring a massive centre screen, a large driver's screen and even an optional screen directly ahead of the front passenger. Both current and previous-generation Q5 models are available with a plug-in-hybrid engine and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive.
Buy a used Audi Q5 or read our review of the previous-generation Audi Q5
Range Rover Sport
Range Rover models are rarely associated with fuel-sipping mpg figures, but the latest Range Rover Sport might surprise you. Despite the P460e's mighty 460hp output and sports-car-like acceleration, you can average nearly 400mpg if you make the most of the available electric power. Keep the massive 38.2kWh battery pack topped up and you can travel for more than 70 miles without starting the engine. As you'd expect, there's no compromise to the Range Rover Sport's incredible off-road abilities either, as long as you're brave enough to leave the beaten trail in such an expensive car!
Find a used Range Rover Sport or read our Land Rover and Range Rover reviews
Toyota RAV4
With such a long history building hybrids, it makes sense that the Toyota RAV4 should earn a spot on this list. Like its Kia and Hyundai rivals, the RAV4 is offered with both full hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines, although we'll focus on the former as it's more common, more affordable and doesn't require access to a charging point. There's no seven-seat option, but you do get a vast, square load area behind the five standard seats, along with lots of space for tall adults or bulky child seats. All with the reassurance of Toyota's excellent reliability record.
Check out Toyota RAV4 cars for sale or read our Toyota RAV4 review
Jeep Compass
If you live somewhere a bit more rural, you might want a 4x4 with some more serious off-road chops. This may be the perfect job for the Jeep Compass. Track down a Compass in Trailhawk trim and you get lofty suspension, chunky off-road tyres, and reshaped bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. Plus, you don't have to worry about sky-high fuel bills as the Compass is offered with a punchy 1.3-litre plug-in-hybrid setup. Claimed economy is more than 150mpg if you recharge often, and you get a respectable 240hp when the engine and motor are working together.
Check out used Jeep Compass cars or read our Jeep Compass review
Lexus NX
Since Lexus sits under the Toyota umbrella, the brand has access to its parent's excellent hybrid technology. That's why the latest NX SUV is available either as a self-charging hybrid or a plug-in hybrid, with both versions sending power to all four wheels. Cabin quality and the materials on display are totally faultless, and Lexus has worked hard to modernise its infotainment setup, with a crisp screen and clean graphics. It doesn't quite match the athletic handling of the sportiest cars in this class, but it's still a satisfying car to drive everyday.
Find a used Lexus NX cars or read our Lexus NX review
Ford Kuga
Earlier Kuga models were available with straightforward petrol and diesel engines, but this practical family hauler is now offered with either self-charging-hybrid or plug-in-hybrid power. Go with the former, and you have the option of four-wheel drive to improve grip and traction in slippery conditions. Like all Kugas, hybrid versions are very easy to drive thanks to predictable handling, intuitive controls and their smooth acceleration. It's easy to live with too, with lots of rear-seat space and a boxy, practical boot.
Browse used Ford Kuga cars or read our Ford Kuga review
Kia Sportage
As the sibling car to the Hyundai Tucson, the Kia Sportage has many of the same virtues. It's easy to drive, easy to use, well equipped and comes with the reassurance of the brand's strong reliability record. It carves out its own niche, however, with slightly more upright cabin styling that recalls more traditional off-roaders, and a stiffer, sportier ride. Engine options are the same, however, featuring a choice of full or plug-in-hybrid engines, with the former being a little more affordable and better for buyers without easy EV charging options.
Buy a used Kia Sportage from Motorpoint or read our Kia Sportage review
Volvo XC60
Like the rest of the Volvo range, the XC60 is handsome and understated. Less flashy than its German rivals, and less techy than its Asian competitors. Standard engines already benefit from mild-hybrid assistance but the T6 and T8 versions pair a powerful plug-in-hybrid setup with all-wheel drive. Of course, you're probably not going to crush an off-road course in the XC60, but dirt roads and grassy lanes should pose the car no challenge. Plus, both versions can tow more than two tonnes, making them a great choice for pulling a trailer.
Find a used Volvo XC60 cars or read our Volvo XC60 review
Suzuki S-Cross
Every Suzuki S-Cross is hybridised to some degree but, while manual models make do with a simple mild-hybrid setup, you can get a newer full-hybrid engine if you choose the 1.5-litre automatic version. It focuses mostly on economy compared to some of the speed demons on this list, but can achieve nearly 50mpg in day-to-day driving with no need to plug in and recharge. It's not the most luxurious choice here but strikes back by being one of the most affordable options while still retaining a spacious cabin and generous equipment list.
Buy a used Suzuki S-Cross or read our Suzuki reviews
Save money on a fuel-sipping 4x4
Motorpoint has a huge selection of used cars for sale, including hundreds of hybrid and 4x4 models. For more options check out our picks for the best nearly new 4x4s on sale.
