Why a Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid Model Is the Perfect Option for Charleston Drivers

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) offer several advantages, making them an ideal choice for drivers in the Charleston metropolitan area. The heavy traffic around the greater Charleston area can present a challenge to commuters during rush hour, and when tourist season hits, forget about it; you're going to be kept waiting. Getting into a hybrid vehicle helps you save gas when stuck in stop-and-go traffic on the cobblestone streets of the Old Historic District. If you're looking for a great car dealership in Charleston, SC, with a great inventory to help you explore alternative fuel options, look no further than Hendrick Auto Group and our many dealerships throughout the Charleston area.

A hybrid is the ideal companion for those looking to go green and yet aren't quite ready to make the change. We get it; switching to a fully electric vehicle has its challenges, such as if you're an apartment dweller, where would you charge up? But with a traditional hybrid, you can reduce your carbon footprint without having to search for a charging station. In an old city like Charleston, where space is limited, a compact hybrid makes sense.

If you're looking to make the change but feel overwhelmed with your choices or don't know where to start, we've got you back. We've rounded up some of the latest, most impressive, and most popular 2024 hybrid and PHEV models to help you get an idea of what is available on the market and hopefully give you some potential options.

A Look at Notable Hybrid Models

Because hybrids and PHEVs offer their own unique advantages, we're going to separate them into two groups. Doing this can help make it easier to narrow down your choice and get exactly what you want. So let's check out some of the best-looking hybrids for 2024.

Toyota Hybrids

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is an update for a familiar face, the favorite RAV4 compact crossover. Before the RAV4 got its eco-friendly make-over, it had cultivated a reputation for being a competent and powerful little adventure vehicle for urban dwellers who have a bit of a wild side. With a 2.5L 4-cylinder and front and rear electric-drive motors, a 2023 RAV4 hybrid delivers a healthy 41 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. If you're already stuck in traffic, worrying about wasting gas is the last thing you want on your mind. And when adventure calls, you don't want to slow down, and with the RAV4 Hybrid, you won't have to.

The versatility of the RAV4 hybrid makes it a perfect everyday drive for the casual Charleston driver. The cabin is focused around you, so expect supportive seating, modern materials, and user-friendly tech that makes driving fun and rewarding on all levels. Seating for five makes the hybrid ideal for commuters or families just starting their journey. One test drive, and you'll see why more Charleston drivers than ever are choosing to reduce their carbon footprint with the RAV4 Hybrid.

And we can't talk about hybrids without mentioning Prius! The Toyota Prius was popular before hybrid became a common buzzword, and the newest 2024 model is sleeker and better than ever. It's no wonder the Prius has managed to maintain its status as one of the most popular hybrids year after year. With a fuel economy of over 50 MPG in the city or on the highway, the Prius was made for those lengthy excursions! Drivers will love its minimalist interior with modern lines and a straightforward infotainment system. The good looks, compact nature, and versatility of a Toyota hybrid make it the ideal vehicle for all your urban adventures.

Honda Hybrids

Do you want reliable performance? Low-maintenance? And lots of savings? The Honda CR-V Hybrid is sure to check all the right boxes for eco-minded drivers looking to trade up their traditional gas engine for a slightly greener option. The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a midsize crossover that seats five and offers a lot of value for Charleston drivers who want to do their part to reduce air pollution but still enjoy the ride.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid has become popular for several reasons. Not only does it deliver great efficiency, getting 40 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, but it also delivers responsive handling that helps smooth out bumps in the road and keeps you confident behind the wheel. For the price, the cabin has a surprisingly high-end feel with soft-touch materials, thoughtful storage, and the latest advanced tech and driver assist features Honda has to offer.

Drivers wanting to add a little sportiness to their day will find plenty of get-up and go with either the Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid or Sport-L Hybrid trim models. Both come standard with a 204 hp two-motor hybrid powertrain that is as powerful as it is efficient. Looking to conquer your commute? Make a big statement with the compact Honda CR-V Hybrid!

Check Out These Plug-In Hybrid Models

As we mentioned before, a PHEV is a plug-in hybrid that gives drivers a chance to experience electric technology without having to give up the gas engine. If you're thinking about switching to an EV, but you're not quite sure, a PHEV gives you the best of both worlds.

Some of BMW’s Plug-In Hybrid Models

Looking to add a little sophistication to your daily ride? We get it. That is why BMW is one of the most popular brands for urban dwellers and young professionals looking for luxury. And for those looking to upgrade from the typical BMW to something a bit more eco-friendly, there are the sleek and modern BMW PHEVs. BMW makes going green in the city not just look good but also feel good on every level. The quiet nature of the PHEV means less noise pollution, and the tech means less air pollution. And for the driver? All the luxury and performance you want on four wheels.

Many of the hybrids and PHEVs we mentioned so far have been crossovers and SUVs, but you can't overlook the convenience factor of a sedan in the city, and that is where the BMW 330e comes in. Drivers will go from 0 to 60 in a mere 5.6 seconds. If highway driving is part of your day, having great performance with nimble steering is sure to improve it. And for those short on time, the BMW 330e is equipped with DC Fast Charging, or Level 3, which means pulling into a public charging station and boosting your battery while you grab lunch is easier and faster than ever.

For plenty of luxury and cargo space, upgrade to the bold and beautiful BMW XM. The crossover features all-wheel drive and a compact size, making it city-friendly for drivers who don't always have enough space. But on the inside? No worries, the XM delivers luxury with an airy cabin, ample head and leg room, and smart storage to keep essentials on hand. The V8 engine is combined with a high-performance electric motor that allows the driver to go all-electric and emissions-free for up to 30 miles if desired. The smooth lines keep the XM aerodynamic for a sleek and efficient ride that adds a little extra thrill to your drive.

Those are just two models in the impressive BMW hybrid family. For Charleston drivers who don't want to compromise when it comes to performance and luxury, BMW offers the latest innovative PHEVs that get you where you're going in style.

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe

The Jeep Wrangler is an icon, so of course, the automotive giant took steps to upgrade the best-selling SUV to the Wrangler 4xe. This is perfect for the nature-loving vehicle and its legions of followers who are looking to clean up their driving habits and experience what it's like to charge up a vehicle without having to go full electric.

The good news is that charging a PHEV is getting easier and more convenient than ever before. If you can plug in a tablet or a phone, you can charge your car. A PHEV is a great introduction for those thinking about an EV but aren't quite ready to go all the way. What's great about the Wrangler 4xe is that you're not just reducing your carbon emissions but improving power. The Wrangler 4xe offers more horsepower and torque than your typical entry-level Wrangler, meaning it pays to go green.

The interior of the Wrangler 4xe is sophisticated with a rugged edge, making it the perfect co-pilot for weekend road trips or running daily errands. Plush seating and the latest tech make driving feel like second nature. Jeeps were designed to tackle many difficult terrains, so they are great vehicles for urban driving. Quick and balanced steering allows you to make tight turns with a moment's notice. And pot-holes or slippery streets? No problem. The Wrangler 4xe takes on rough patches with ease thanks to its advanced 4x4 system.

The exceptional driving range of 49 MPGe means when the wild calls, you can answer. South Carolina features a number of challenges, from coastlines and city streets to rutted and sandy backroads. So wherever and whenever, the Wrangler 4xe is ready when you are.

Let Us Help You Find the Perfect Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle

The green car market is exploding right now, with more automakers declaring to go emissions-free within a few decades. Hybrid and PHEV models are just one step away from full eclectic and make a good stepping stone for drivers looking for change. If you're an urban dweller, plugging in might present a challenge; thankfully, there's a hybrid for that. But if you want to get a taste of what it's like to have an EV, there are lots of PHEV models to choose from to suit your needs. When drivers choose a hybrid, they are helping reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a greener future for their beautiful city. With great combinations of efficiency, tech, and comfort, a PHEV or hybrid is a worthwhile investment for a more sustainable daily drive.

With the growing number of convenient charging stations, Charleston is making it easier than ever for drivers to switch to a greener vehicle. With around 400 public stations and growing, drivers can use various apps and websites to find public charging for their PHEV or simply power up at home for extra convenience. Locations like Queen Street Garage, Whole Foods, or the Charles Towne Landing Visitor Center all have available units for boosting a battery on the go.

The urban landscape of Charleston, as well as its residents, will benefit from lower carbon emissions. Getting into a hybrid or PHEV is just one way drivers can do their part whenever they get behind the wheel. View the beauty of Charleston in a whole new way from behind the wheel of a hybrid of PHEV. Ready to make the change? Experience for yourself why there has never been a more popular time to turn over a new leaf and enjoy all the benefits green technology has to offer, all at a price that works for multiple budgets. Visit one of our many Charleston area dealerships today, and our friendly and knowledgeable teams will help you pick out a model that best fits your needs.