What's The Difference: Hybrids vs. Plug-In Hybrids vs. EVs | Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports
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Published 2024-04-05
Hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and electric vehicles have a shared goal: reduce tailpipe emissions and deliver the best fuel economy. But how do they work? We explain the differences between these powertrains and how they can affect vehicle ownership.

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All Comments (12)
  • @Maningray1960
    Another advantage of a plug in hybrid: as the battery ages and holds less charge, you can drive it exclusively as an ICE vehicle. This is why, I believe, plug in hybrids will have higher resale value that fully electric cars. .
  • @COSolar6419
    We really wanted to buy a RAV4 Prime PHEV a couple of years ago for all the reasons most people choose a hybrid over an EV. They were very hard to find at the time so we ended up buying a fully electric vehicle. After two years and 25,000 miles we remain very glad we went fully electric. Charging is different but not difficult. Actually 90% of the time we charge at home which is certainly easier and cheaper than a trip to a gas station. That said I would much rather see people go with a hybrid or plug in hybrid than conventional gas powered vehicles.
  • @Steve_in_NJ
    Great visual comparisons. I've decided to go PHEV for my next crossover -- KIA Niro SX Touring has a great CR rating (87) -- just hoping their inventory rises (or I can get one in my trim/color) by end of September!
  • @Qrail
    I have 2 PHEVā€™s. And, yes, I do need to buy gasoline on occasion. My favorite part of owning them is the fantastic mileage. How does 79.6 sound for 327 miles? Some local, some freeway. So basically 4 gallons per month at $5 a gallon. And based on my average mpg, it is one tank of fuel from Sacramento to Boise. With about 35 miles of electric range.
  • @shadowdance4666
    Why donā€™t you also elaborate on the types of hybrids like full compared to mild or whatever other types there are
  • @tanitasus
    After 2 years of EV ownership and no daily tailpipe emissions, you have absolved yourself from the sin of battery mineral mining and production. Having a plug-in or hybrid means your polluting for the life of the car. And yes, the study was done using the dirtiest method for producing electricity.
  • @jono4708
    Bought my 2015 hybrid Prius in 2015. I'm driving my last car.šŸ˜Š
  • @jacobwebb8561
    I would say ā€œtaking an hour or more to fully chargeā€ is correct, but a bit misleading. Most electric vehicles slow down charging above 80%, but can charge very rapidly from 5%-80%. So, unless you absolutely will not make it to your next charging stop/destination, 80% is the target. Good video, but I donā€™t want potential electric converts to be dissuaded.
  • @paulbk7810
    Any vehicle that needs to be charged OR can be charged REQUIRES that you park within reach of charge cable. HUGE pain in the ass. EVs = no thank you.