At Electrifying.com, we love full electric cars but we know that some buyers either aren’t ready for one or can’t make one work in terms of distances and recharging. While the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is regarded as a good stepping stone for drivers who want the convenience of electric, but need a longer driving range, do they still make sense? Do the rises in energy costs still mean that PHEV owners can save money?

To make a proper comparison, we’ve pitched two of the best examples and worked out all the horrible sums on your behalf. Both carry five people and have a hatchback. Both cost just over 35 grand - depending on spec - and will manage pretty much the same kind of jobs. 
 
Representing the PHEVs is the new Vauxhall Astra Hybrid-e. Capable of covering up to 47 miles on electric, it comes with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine for when the electricity runs out. Which it will, because it’s only got a 12.4kWh battery under the bonnet. 
 
Representing the fully electric car is the Cupra Born. It comes with a 58kWh battery, and it’ll get you 249 miles of official range. It’s roughly the same price - depending on spec - but a pure electric car with all the advantages and potential disadvantages that brings with it. 
 
Join Tom as he puts both through their paces and delivers a definitive verdict.

#Astrahybride #cupraborn #phevvselectric