For drivers in Singapore who want a taste of electric driving but aren’t ready to go fully battery-powered, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) offer a practical middle ground. They combine the benefits of electric mobility — quiet operation, lower emissions, and cheaper running costs — with the reassurance of a petrol engine for longer journeys.

Unlike regular hybrids, PHEVs can be plugged in to charge their larger batteries, allowing them to run purely on electric power for daily commutes. For most Singaporeans, this means you could drive around town in EV mode and only rely on petrol for longer road trips — perfect for weekend drives to Malaysia or those rare longer journeys.

In recent years, PHEVs have become more popular here, thanks to new models that blend strong performance, style, and practicality. Here are five plug-in hybrid SUVs worth considering if you want the best of both worlds.

BYD Sealion 6

BYD’s first plug-in hybrid model for Singapore, the Sealion 6, offers a great starting point for those curious about the brand but not quite ready to go all-in on full EV ownership. This midsize SUV delivers a smooth balance between electric range and petrol efficiency.

Powered by a 1.5-litre engine paired with an 18.3kWh battery, it produces 218hp and 300Nm of torque, with an electric-only range of about 80km and a total driving range of up to 1,100km. That’s more than enough to handle most local and cross-border trips with ease.

The cabin is spacious and well-equipped, with twin wireless chargers, a panoramic sunroof, and ample storage. While it doesn’t feel quite as premium as its electric sibling, the Sealion 7, it’s refined, comfortable, and functional. Priced from around $233,000 with COE, the Sealion 6 makes a solid case for those wanting a dependable and efficient PHEV from a trusted brand.

Jaecoo J7

Jaecoo’s J7 plug-in hybrid brings rugged SUV looks with an impressive driving range to match. Equipped with an 18.3kWh battery, it delivers 90km of pure electric range and up to 1,200km total range — one of the highest among current PHEVs.

The J7 produces 341hp and 525Nm, allowing for strong acceleration and confident highway cruising. While it’s not tuned for sporty handling, its power makes overtaking effortless. The suspension is tuned for comfort, though it can feel soft on some surfaces.

Visually, the J7’s boxy silhouette and bold chrome grille give it a tough, premium vibe reminiscent of a mini Range Rover. Inside, the minimalist design is anchored by a 14.8-inch vertical touchscreen, and the cabin offers generous space with up to 1,265 litres of cargo capacity when the rear seats are folded.

With a starting price of $239,999 with COE, the J7 is ideal for families wanting a capable, long-range SUV without giving up style or practicality.

Mazda CX-80

Mazda’s first-ever PHEV for Singapore, the CX-80, proves that plug-in hybrids can be both luxurious and family-friendly. This seven-seater SUV pairs a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a 17.8kWh battery to produce a combined 323hp and 500Nm of torque.

It can run on electric power for about 60km, but its hybrid system is designed to seamlessly switch between battery and engine power for maximum efficiency. On the road, the CX-80 delivers smooth acceleration and a balanced, comfortable ride, even on rougher surfaces.

The interior feels premium and sophisticated, with high-quality leather, wood trim, and tactile physical buttons that give it an elegant, old-school charm. There’s generous space across all three rows, making it a great fit for larger households.

The catch? At $368,888 with COE, it’s one of the priciest PHEVs around. Still, for those seeking refinement, space, and seven-seat flexibility, the CX-80 delivers an experience that’s worth every dollar.

Volvo XC60 T8

Volvo’s XC60 T8 plug-in hybrid continues to be one of Singapore’s favourite family SUVs — and with good reason. The facelifted version combines impressive performance with signature Scandinavian comfort and safety.

The XC60 T8 uses an 18.8kWh battery and a powerful hybrid setup producing 455hp and 709Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds — quicker than some sports cars — yet still offers a relaxed, quiet ride when cruising.

Inside, the XC60 impresses with an updated 11.2-inch infotainment display running on Google’s Android Automotive OS. The layout is clean and user-friendly, though Apple CarPlay requires a wired connection. Details like the crystal gear selector add a touch of sophistication.

At $379,000 with COE, the XC60 T8 isn’t cheap, but it’s one of the most powerful and well-rounded PHEVs available — combining luxury, practicality, and performance in a single package.

Land Rover Defender 110 PHEV

Land Rover’s iconic Defender now comes with a plug-in hybrid option, proving that even the toughest off-roaders can go green. The Defender 110 PHEV pairs a 2.0-litre engine with a 19.2kWh battery, delivering 296hp, 625Nm of torque, and around 38km of electric range.

While its electric range is modest, the Defender’s appeal lies in its versatility. It can tackle city traffic as easily as rugged terrain, and the instant torque from its electric motor makes off-road crawling smoother than ever. Despite its 2.5-tonne weight, it accelerates confidently and maintains a solid, composed ride.

Inside, the cabin balances toughness and modern comfort, featuring durable materials and intuitive controls. The PHEV variant starts at $336,888 before COE, making it the most affordable Defender model in the lineup — though with current COE prices, it will still exceed $470,000 on the road.

For those who crave adventure without sacrificing sustainability, the Defender PHEV is a unique blend of power, presence, and purpose.

Why Plug-in Hybrids Make Sense in Singapore

Singapore’s compact size means many drivers rarely exceed 50km per day — well within the electric range of most PHEVs. Yet for those who love spontaneous road trips to Malaysia or prefer the reassurance of a fuel tank, PHEVs remove the range anxiety of full EVs.

With more models entering the market and charging infrastructure improving rapidly, plug-in hybrids are becoming an increasingly practical choice for drivers who want lower running costs today — without giving up flexibility tomorrow.

Whether it’s the rugged confidence of the Defender, the family-friendly Mazda CX-80, or the all-rounder Volvo XC60, Singaporean drivers now have more ways than ever to enjoy electric mobility, one plug at a time.