What Is The Difference Between Hybrids & Plug-In Hybrids?

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid at Charging Station with Family

If you’re shopping for a greener ride, you may have come across the terms hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid. What’s the difference? At Ontario Hyundai, we want to help you understand your options so you can choose the one that better matches your Fontana driving needs.

Hyundai Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid: The Basics

A hybrid combines a gasoline engine and an electric motor, switching between or combining power sources automatically. The battery is recharged by regenerative braking, and the engine—you don’t plug it in.

 

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) also uses gasoline plus electric power but adds a larger battery that you can charge from an external outlet. That means you can drive on electric power alone (for a limited range) before the gasoline engine kicks in.

Hyundai Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid: Popular Models

Here are some new models of each we have in stock:

Hybrid

  • Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Features a fuel-efficient powertrain, modern exterior design, and a tech-focused interior
  • Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Offers excellent fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a comprehensive safety suite
  • Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Has a variety of powertrain options, upgraded materials, and a refreshed design

Plug-In Hybrid

Which One Is Right For You?

  • Choose a hybrid if you want better fuel economy without worrying about charging or range limitations.
  • Choose a plug-in hybrid if your daily driving is within the EV range and you have access to charging, allowing you to rely more on electric power and cut fuel use.
  • Consider how much time you spend in the city vs. on long trips outside of Rancho Cucamonga, and whether you’re comfortable plugging in nightly (or during your day).

Test-Drive A Hybrid Hyundai In Ontario

At Ontario Hyundai, we’ll help guide you through your research as you compare the Hyundai hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid. Browse our models online. If you have any questions, please contact us. We can’t wait to assist you!

 

More From Ontario Hyundai

  • Why Was the Hyundai Accent Discontinued in North America?

    Hyundai discontinued the Accent in North America after the 2022 model year. Buyer demand had shifted away from subcompact sedans toward crossovers and compact sedans. Rather than redesign a low-margin small sedan, Hyundai built its entry-level lineup around two vehicles: the Hyundai Venue subcompact crossover and the Hyundai Elantra compact sedan. Shoppers across Southern California…

  • Comprar un SUV Hyundai nuevo en el Inland Empire: opciones, capacidad y eficiencia

    Elegir un SUV para la familia depende menos de las fichas técnicas y más de la rutina diaria. ¿Cuántas personas viajan? ¿Cuánto equipaje cargan? ¿Cuántas millas recorren cada semana? La gama de SUV Hyundai cubre desde crossovers subcompactos de cinco pasajeros hasta modelos de tres filas para ocho ocupantes. En Ontario Hyundai los tenemos disponibles…

  • Servicio de aire acondicionado y enfriamiento Hyundai en Ontario: prepara tu auto para el verano

    El sistema de climatización de tu Hyundai trabaja con dos circuitos independientes. Cada uno cumple una función distinta, y los dos se apoyan entre sí durante los meses de calor. Programa tu servicio Contáctanos El circuito del habitáculo Este circuito enfría el aire que respiras. Lo forman el compresor, el condensador, la válvula de expansión,…