The debate around plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) in Canada is multifaceted. Are they a practical on-ramp to fully electric vehicles (EVs), or do they introduce undue cost and complexity? Are they a genuine consumer demand, or a product of bureaucratic and regulatory pressures? The reality, like many things, is nuanced.
Plug-in hybrids are designed with a specific driver in mind—someone who can regularly plug in their vehicle for daily commutes but requires a gasoline backup for longer road trips where charging infrastructure may be limited. PHEVs come equipped with both an engine and a significantly larger battery than traditional hybrids. When not plugged in, they operate similarly to regular hybrids, using a small portion of the battery alongside the engine.
There is considerable debate about how often PHEV owners actually plug in their vehicles. Studies, including one from the International Council on Clean Transportation using U.S. data, suggest that PHEVs travel 25-65% fewer electric miles than the EPA estimates on window stickers. Similarly, a European Commission study found that they pollute more than anticipated in real-world scenarios. Although the EPA acknowledges this discrepancy and has proposed adjustments to greenhouse gas regulations, upcoming EPA and CAFE standards will likely result in an increased presence of PHEVs on the market.
Thanks to regulations—particularly from California—as well as advancements in battery technology, the next generation of PHEVs will offer extended electric ranges. Some models could achieve 50-70 electric miles, a substantial improvement over current offerings. For instance, the Range Rover SE Plug-In Hybrid currently provides 51 electric miles, while the Toyota Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime offer 44 and 42 electric miles, respectively. Volvo’s S60 Recharge and V60 also boast 41 electric miles.
Future PHEVs will aim to deliver a more pronounced electric vehicle experience. When some charge remains in the battery, the gasoline engine will remain inactive, thereby enhancing the electric driving experience. Automakers are increasingly designing PHEVs to prioritize the electric component as the primary source of power.
As we anticipate more advanced PHEVs, here’s a look at the new or significantly upgraded models expected for the 2025 model year or soon after.
Honda’s entry into the PHEV market in Canada is unconventional. The 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV, available exclusively in California, utilises a 92.2-kW hydrogen fuel-cell stack instead of a gasoline engine. This setup helps maintain a 14-kWh battery pack and delivers 174 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque. With a full charge, drivers can travel 29 miles on electric power alone—a valuable backup given the unreliable hydrogen supply.
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid features a refreshed design, standard all-wheel drive, and an updated infotainment system influenced by the Ioniq 6 EV. While the plug-in hybrid powertrain remains unchanged, it includes a 72-kW electric motor and a 13.8-kWh battery pack, providing 33 electric miles. The vehicle’s combined system delivers 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with fuel efficiency dropping to 35 mpg when operating without a plug-in charge. A 7.2-kWh onboard charger enables a quick recharge in under two hours using a Level 2 home charger.
The Canadian market has seen a scarcity of plug-in hybrid trucks, making Jeep’s move notable. The Gladiator plug-in hybrid is slated for a 2025 arrival, with full details forthcoming. Expect specifications similar to the Wrangler 4xe, which features a 17.0-kWh battery pack offering 21 electric miles. The Gladiator’s 2.0-litre turbo-4 engine and electric motor combination produces 375 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, ensuring off-road capabilities remain intact.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e joins the midsize crossover segment with a PHEV powertrain that pairs a 2.0-litre turbo-4 engine with a 24.8-kWh battery pack (23.3 kWh usable) and an electric motor, resulting in 313 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The EPA rates the GLC 350e at 54 miles of electric range. Mercedes claims a 0-60 km/h time of 6.2 seconds, a top speed of 215 km/h in hybrid mode, and 140 km/h in electric mode. The vehicle also supports a 60-kW fast-charge mode.
For Canadian drivers considering a PHEV, several provincial incentives and rebates are available, making these vehicles more affordable. For example, Ontario offers the iZEV (Inflation Reduction Act Zero-Emission Vehicle) rebate, providing up to $4,000 for eligible PHEV purchases. Other provinces, such as British Columbia and Quebec, also have their own incentive programs. It is essential for Canadian consumers to investigate these provincial rebates to maximise savings.
In summary, PHEVs present a complex but potentially valuable bridge to a fully electric future. With advancing technology and increasing electric ranges, they may offer a practical solution for drivers needing both daily electric convenience and long-range gasoline backup.