In recent years, the demand for hybrid vehicles has increased significantly. But not all hybrid vehicles are the same: there are Mild hybrids (MHEV) and Plug-in hybrids (PHEV). Both technologies have their own advantages and areas of application. In this 2025 guide, we compare the two types of drive and help you make the right choice.
1. What is a mild hybrid (MHEV)?
A Mild hybrid is a vehicle with an internal combustion engine supported by a small electric motor. This electric motor cannot power the car alone, but rather serves to make the combustion engine more efficient.
Characteristics of a mild hybrid:
- 48-volt electrical system: Supports the engine during acceleration and reduces consumption.
- Energy recovery: When braking, energy is stored and used to support the engine.
- Start-stop system: The engine can be switched off automatically when stationary to save fuel.
Advantages of a mild hybrid:
✔ Lower fuel consumption than pure combustion engines.
✔ No external charging necessary.
✔ Usually cheaper than plug-in hybrids.
Disadvantages of a mild hybrid:
✘ No purely electric driving possible.
✘ Less fuel savings than a plug-in hybrid.
2. What is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV)?
A Plug-in hybrid combines an internal combustion engine with a powerful electric motor and a larger battery that can be charged externally.
Features of a plug-in hybrid:
- Longer electric range: Depending on the model, it can drive up to 50-100 km purely electrically.
- Two drive modes: Can operate in both electric and hybrid modes.
- Regular charging necessary: Must be charged from a power outlet or charging station.
Advantages of a plug-in hybrid:
✔ Possibility of driving short distances purely electrically.
✔ Reduced fuel consumption when the battery is charged.
✔ More environmentally friendly than pure combustion engines.
Disadvantages of a plug-in hybrid:
✘ Higher purchase price.
✘ Regular charging required.
✘ Heavier than a mild hybrid due to the larger battery.
3. Mild hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid: direct comparison
| feature | Mild hybrid (MHEV) | Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) |
|---|---|---|
| Electric range | No | 50-100km |
| Fuel saving | Medium | High |
| CO₂ emissions | Reduced | Very low (in E mode) |
| Acquisition costs | Cheaper | More expensive |
| Maintenance costs | Less | Higher because of battery |
| Charging infrastructure | Not necessary | Necessary |
Which hybrid technology suits you best?
If you are looking for a cost-effective and low-maintenance vehicle for everyday Swiss life, a mild hybrid is the better choice.
- Do you regularly drive short distances around town or to work? Then you benefit from a plug-in hybrid that can travel purely electrically.
- If you don't have access to a charging station - either at home or at work - a mild hybrid is more practical.
- Do you value maximum fuel savings and would you like to benefit from low electricity prices in Switzerland? Then the plug-in hybrid offers the greatest potential.
Mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids each have their advantages. While mild hybrids offer an efficient and economical solution for everyday life, plug-in hybrids save more fuel with their electric range and are more environmentally friendly. The right choice depends on your driving habits, your budget and your charging options.
No matter which technology you choose – hybrid vehicles contribute to sustainable mobility in Switzerland!
The best models: mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid in 2025
In 2025, both mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles offer a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the standout models in each category:
Top mild hybrid models 2025:
- Audi S8: A luxury sedan with a 48-volt mild hybrid system that delivers impressive performance and efficiency.
- BMW 7 series: Equipped with the latest mild hybrid technology, this series offers a perfect balance between comfort and dynamics.
- Suzuki Swift: A compact city car with a 1.2 liter Dualjet engine and mild hybrid technology that achieves up to 60 MPG.
Top plug-in hybrid models 2025:
- Mazda CX-70 PHEV: A midsize crossover with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that delivers 323 horsepower and offers an electric range of up to 26 miles.
- Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid: With a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine and a 181 horsepower electric motor, this hybrid combines a total output of 200 horsepower with an impressive fuel economy of 48 mpg.
- Opel Grandland PHEV: This SUV offers a plug-in hybrid variant with the latest technology and an attractive design.
When choosing between mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid, you should consider your individual driving habits, budget and charging infrastructure. Both technologies offer environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional combustion engines and contribute to more sustainable mobility.
Hybrid vehicles in Switzerland: subsidies and advantages
Sustainable mobility is becoming increasingly important in Switzerland, and hybrid vehicles benefit from various tax and financial incentives.
✅ Tax advantages and subsidies:
- Traffic taxes for hybrid vehicles have been reduced in many cantons.
- Exemption or reduction of import tax for low-emission vehicles.
- Funding programs for the purchase of plug-in hybrids in certain regions.
✅ Hybrid cars and Swiss environmental goals:
- Support for the federal government’s CO₂ reduction strategy.
- Reducing fuel consumption and emissions in road transport.
- Possibility of driving with low emissions in environmental zones.
✅ Charging infrastructure for plug-in hybrids:
- More and more public charging stations throughout Switzerland.
- Attractive subsidies for private charging stations from some cantons.
- Cooperations with electricity providers for reduced rates when charging at home.
Hybrid vehicles offer an ideal solution for Swiss roads - be it as an efficient mild hybrid for mountain regions or as an environmentally friendly plug-in hybrid for commuters in cities. 🚗⚡
If you have any questions or are not sure which hybrid vehicle to choose, please feel free to contact SwissCarMarket Contact us for tailored advice and detailed information.
