Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Hybrids are great at offering incredible economy, without sacrificing long range, in the same way an electric car does. The first hybrids used a petrol engine for simplicity, but diesel engines are just as suited to working in conjunction with an electric motor. These are the best diesel hybrids on sale today.

 is one of BMW’s most popular SUVs, and from 2023 it was offered with the impressive 6-cylinder diesel engine and 48v mild hybrid system. This boosts power to nearly 300hp, with a 0-60mph time of 6.1 seconds, which is impressive considering the X5’s size!

As standard the new X5 comes with air suspension, 20-inch alloy wheels and loads of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance and more! 

At nearly £40,000 less than the ‘full fat’ Range Rover, the 

 has been a favourite of those who love the opulent styling and prestige, but don’t need such a large vehicle.

In order to increase fuel efficiency whilst delivering a smooth and powerful ride, the Sport uses the 3.0 diesel hybrid powertrain from BMW, the same one featured in the X5 above.

This gives it comparable power and acceleration figures, and should mean the reliability is pretty good too!

 has all the comfort and features of a car. Plus, as a commercial vehicle, it is excluded from 

Only the Invincible X trim level and above are available as a diesel hybrid, which makes it around £9,000 more than the cheapest double cab trim. 

It yields more than just a hybrid option though, it also includes 18” alloys, a high-quality built-in nav system and a 360-degree camera. Whilst the 

 and motor do not add power, Toyota claims up to 5% reduction in 

In a bold move straying away from the competition with their 

 Mazda have opted to offer their CX-60 SUV with a sizeable 3.3 Litre diesel engine, accompanied by a mild hybrid system. There are two power options, the rear wheel drive 200hp version, and the 3 wheel drive 250hp version. 

Because the system is a mild hybrid, there is no electric-only range, except on the petrol PHEV model. The MHEV can achieve 60MPG though, which is pretty good considering the size of both the engine and car. 

, that has a substantial diesel engine but also gets good fuel economy, the 

 would be perfect. Using the same drivetrain as the X5 we discussed above, the X7 makes even better use of the torque on offer, being that it’s around 350kg heavier!

Inside the X7 is even more refined too, with premium materials everywhere, it is very apparent this is the competitor to the Range Rover, it even features a split tailgate; a revered feature of the Range Rover since the ‘80s. 

The Diesel-Hybrid is a relatively rare fuel type, with only 6 brand new cars for sale on Autotrader at the time of writing. 

Why Are Petrol-Hybrids More Popular Than Diesel?

Petrol and diesel engines produce power in different ways, the power delivery of a petrol engine complements that of an electric motor much better than a diesel engine, with the electric motor providing the low speed torque that petrol engines are inefficient at providing.

In contrast, diesel engines are good at providing low-speed torque, so the benefit of having a supplemental power source for accelerating up to cruising speed is lessened. 

What Are the Benefits of a Diesel Hybrid?

Much like a petrol hybrid, the main benefit of a diesel hybrid is the fuel efficiency gains. For example, Toyota claim the addition of the mild hybrid system in their Hilux Hybrid gains around 5% efficiency. 

Emissions regulations also play a part. All new cars need to adhere to strict EU laws on carbon dioxide and other chemical emissions. The addition of a hybrid system allows some manufacturers to continue using older engine designs or larger-capacity engines. 

AdBlue as it is used on many modern diesel engines to help their emissions output stay within legal limits, many diesel-hybrid engines use it, as determined by EU regulations. 

 is a catalyst solution that improves the conversion of harmful emissions into less harmful compounds.

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two; blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

What Are The Best Diesel Hybrids?

You’ve just passed your MOT — hooray! 

But what’s this? A list of MOT advisories? 

MOT advisories are small or potential future problems that should be checked as soon as possible. 

In this article, we’ll explain how to navigate MOT advisories, how long you have to fix them, how to stay safe, and other frequently asked questions. 

MOT advisories highlight potential issues or minor problems identified during your car’s MOT test. 

While they don’t pose an immediate safety risk, they could develop into more serious issues over time. Addressing advisories promptly is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s safety and preventing 

MOT advisories are given to inform owners about upcoming maintenance needs. This helps 

ensures road safety, and helps you prepare for future inspections. 

MOT advisories alert drivers to potential issues that, while not immediate safety concerns, may require attention in the future. 

 highlight severe defects that demand instant repair to comply with road safety standards and legal frameworks.

The critical difference between MOT advisories and failures lies in the level of danger and the urgency of action needed. Don’t take advisories too lightly, though. You must still get these checked out quickly.

Yes, MOT advisories are an important element of maintaining your vehicle’s safety and overall performance. 

While they’re not as urgent as MOT failures, they highlight potential danger in the future and may worsen over time if you don’t address them. 

and don’t fix it, the rust may spread to other parts of the car and weaken its structure. This will lead to a future MOT failure.

Ignoring MOT advisories won’t just lead to a bad MOT test. It can also result in breakdowns, higher repair costs, or even road accidents. So, it’s vital that you make repairs as needed.

Alongside preventing future issues, keeping on top of MOT advisories improves your car’s performance. 

When your car is in good condition, it delivers a smoother drive, 

 and less wear and tear from daily usage.

Plus, a well-maintained car has a higher resale value. So, if you plan to sell your car in the future, you should keep it in tip-top condition.

How long do I have to fix an MOT advisory?

MOT advisories don’t come with strict deadlines. They offer guidance on what to fix rather than safety concerns with deadlines.

However, it’s best practice to fix them as soon as possible. This will make your car safer and less likely to get worse.

Leaving an MOT advisory can lead to higher repair costs, future MOT failures, and an unsafe car. 

Most will worsen over time, so you should address them quickly while there’s no specific repair deadline. This is vital for your safety and will save you time and money in the long run.

Some MOT advisories are more common than others. Here are the ones UK drivers are most likely to see:

with MOT advisories can be a reasonable idea, but only if you know what to look for. 

Advisories show that the vehicle has problems that may become major issues. This can cost you time, money, and safety.

Don’t assume that a car is road-safe just because someone’s selling it. Always ask to see the car’s log book, check MOT details and ask for a professional opinion before you buy.

Other tips for buying a car with MOT advisories include:

Checking a car's MOT history helps uncover past issues, such as failed tests or recurring advisories. 

It can also verify the car's maintenance and repair history, ensuring you're making an informed decision and avoiding unexpected costs or safety risks.

Here's a quick step-by-step guide to checking a car's MOT history:

As long as you address them in good time, MOT advisories aren’t anything to worry about! 

However, this is your reminder not to put them off. Leaving them can lead to safety and performance issues, and you’ll have to spend a chunk of cash fixing larger problems. 

MOT advisory repairs and failure costs can set you back. However, Bumper’s here to help you navigate these frustrating expenses.

split the cost of MOT advisories and failure costs

 into manageable, interest-free monthly payments with Bumper.

Everything You Need to About MOT Advisories

Sniffling, sneezing and suffering from a nasty cold? If you’re like most people, you’ll probably reach for some over-the-counter relief. 

While those tiny pills and syrups might soothe your symptoms, they could also steer you straight into legal trouble if you get behind the wheel.

Experts warned that certain cold and flu medicines can turn you from a responsible driver into an offender.

Certain medications for flu or cold can cause drowsiness, slower reaction times, or even dizziness. But even if they don’t impair your ability to drive, it is illegal to drive with certain drugs in your system in the UK.

The consequences for dangerous driving are very serious: you can face an unlimited fine, a year-long driving ban, up to six months in prison and a criminal record.

If you feel drowsy or anything different from normal, read the side effects of the medicine you’ve taken and avoid driving.

Experts urged drivers to be careful and take the medicine you’ve been prescribed, follow the doctor’s advice on how to take the medicine, and stick to the prescribed dosage.

We all lead busy lives, and sometimes it may seem inconvenient to be unwell. However, driving under the influence of drugs is extremely serious and can have life-altering consequences.

Even if you are used to taking a particular medication and believe it doesn't impact your driving, if you are stopped by the police or involved in an accident, and the medication carries a warning against driving, you could still face charges.

Drivers warned to check bottle of popular cold and flu medication

You can say goodbye to frozen car locks and doors with this simple solution.

As winter tightens its icy grip, frozen car door locks and door seals can quickly become a frustrating issue. Water can seep into the key slot or weather stripping around your door, freezing solid and making it impossible to gain entry. 

While brute force or warm water may seem like quick fixes, these methods risk damaging your car's mechanisms or worsening the problem.

Fortunately, there is a simple solution that can keep you from being caught out in the cold.

For those without electronic key fobs, experts suggest water-resistant silicone lubricant inside the key slot where the mechanical key is placed to unlock the car.

Water-resistant silicone lubricant creates a protective, non-stick barrier. It is designed to repel moisture and prevent water from seeping into small spaces and freezing.

When sprayed into a car door lock, the lubricant coats the inner mechanisms, creating a waterproof shield that stops ice from forming and ensuring that your lock remains operational even when in serious cold.

Applying this magical spray is incredibly simple.

First of all you need to make sure that the product you’re using is labelled as ‘water-resistant silicone lubricant’ and is safe for use on metal and rubber components.

Then, insert the straw nozzle of the lubricant spray into the lock’s keyhole. Don’t over-spray! A brief two-second spray is usually sufficient.

Slide your car key in and out of the lock several times to ensure the lubricant spreads evenly across the internal mechanisms.

Use a clean cloth to remove any overspray around the lock to prevent mess or residue.

Beyond the locks, another common winter woe is finding the entire car door frozen shut. This occurs when water enters the weather stripping (the rubber seal lining the inside edge of your car door) and freezes.

The expert said that the spray can help with that, too, and here’s what you should do.

Lightly spray the silicone onto a clean cloth or directly onto the weather stripping.

If using a cloth, wipe it around the entire weather-stripping area to cover it entirely. However, if you’re spraying directly, spray a thin, even layer directly onto the rubber, but be careful not to overspray onto glass or paint.

This should be enough to protect the weather stripping for the season, but you may need to reapply after heavy cleaning or exposure to harsh conditions.

Lastly, the expert warned about the weather conditions when applying the lubricant.

If you decide to try this, make sure to do it on a dry day when temperatures are above freezing to allow the lubricant to adhere effectively.

Revealed: Hack to prevent frozen car doors and locks this winter

Many UK drivers don’t consider common MOT scams when booking their car for the annual test. However, knowing the signs is critical for saving time and money. 

In this blog, we’re gathered the top seven MOT scams and strategies to avoid them to ensure your next test goes without a hitch. Let’s get into it.

7 Common MOT Scams UK Drivers Should Know

 a few bad actors use common MOT scams to take advantage of unsuspecting drivers. 

The best way to avoid MOT scams is to know the signs of deception. Here are seven tricks you should be aware of.

1. Not Performing the Test Well (Or At All)

First, we’ll start with an outright criminal scam — not performing the test correctly or at all.

Some garages charge ‘bargain’ MOT prices much lower than the standard cost. This might seem great initially, but low costs mean the mechanics will either rush the test, miss out on checks, or, in some cases, not perform the MOT.

Remember, MOTs are there to ensure your car's safety—not just for a certificate. Plus, if the garage is caught, 

, and you might face a fine or points on your licence.

So, if the fee looks too good to be true, it might be a sign to stay away!

Next is unfair failure, one of the most common MOT scams. This happens when the

For example, an untrustworthy garage might replace your bulbs with broken ones or damage your wipers. Experienced mechanics know how to do this quickly and subtly. 

They’ll then charge you for these repairs, even if you know they weren’t broken before arriving at the garage.

Fake MOT certificates are one of the worst frauds on the list, as these are easy to fake and can land you in trouble if you don't realise the garage has handed you an unofficial document. 

Since 2011, MOT certificates are no longer official documents but simple papers (VT20/VT30) that are easy to fake. The real MOT record is stored online on a government database. 

 or getting a test, never rely on a paper 'certificate' provided by the seller. 

Instead, get the vehicle identification number (VIN) and test number from the VT20/VT30 document, and then use the official MOT checker to verify it. This ensures the MOT is genuine and avoids potential fraud.

While there are legitimate costs for parts and labour, some garages exploit this by inflating prices or exaggerating the time needed for repairs.

Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, compare quotes from multiple garages, and consider getting a second opinion if a price seems unusually high.

test meters to show falsely high pollution levels, pressuring you into paying for unnecessary repairs. This scam often targets drivers who may not be familiar with vehicle emissions standards.

and engine. Use a trusted garage with good reviews, and if you suspect bad behaviour, get a second opinion or retest elsewhere.

Poor garages may also exaggerate small issues as serious faults, leading to you paying more for repairs you don’t need. A key example of this is 

To confirm accuracy, check your advisory notes carefully and compare them with MOT test standards. It’s also helpful to know whether your car has any minor faults before arriving at the garage, this way, you have a better understanding of any

If you leave the vehicle at a test centre for repairs and it’s retested within ten working days,

Some garages do not tell you about the free retest option, which can lead to paying unnecessarily for another full MOT test.

To avoid this, know your rights—drivers are entitled to a free partial retest at the same garage for most failed items. Always ask for this retest if your car fails, and ensure repairs are completed promptly to meet the 10-day window.

Alongside knowing the common MOT scams, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to ensure high-quality service. These include:

as soon as possible. This will save other drivers from falling for scams.

Avoiding MOT scams comes down to staying informed and vigilant. Hopefully, this blog has given you a helpful starting point to protect yourself and your vehicle when your next test rolls around. 

Split the cost of MOT payments with Bumper

MOT costs and last-minute repairs can set you back. But that’s where Bumper comes in. 

You can split the cost of MOTs and service plans into manageable, interest-free monthly payments with Bumper.

Find out more about our MOT service plans here 

How to Avoid MOT Scams in the UK

Small cars aren’t your only option if you’re ready to go green. Electric SUVs are here to provide ample space and a more powerful driving experience without the extra emissions!

However, don’t just pick the first car you see. Make sure you select an SUV that meets your (and your passengers’) needs. 

In this blog, you’ll find the thirteen best electric SUV cars, their key features, and approximate prices. Ready? Scroll down to get the lowdown 

Grab your notepad! From sleek SUVs to family-friendly vehicles, here are the best electric SUV cars you need to know. 

We used Auto Trader for the most up-to-date prices, this article was last updated on November 12, 2024. 

First on the list is the Volvo EX30. This electric SUV is a top pick, offering an 

 swift performance, and easy, comfortable driving, starting at £32,850. 

On the inside, you’re met with a modern minimalist design. Plus, most controls are accessible through the touchscreen, making it easy to navigate.

While the rear seats and boot aren’t the largest, the EX30’s overall quality makes it a fantastic choice. If you know you need lots of space, consider viewing this model in person to get a realistic scope of the car.

 However, if you’re looking for classic BMW-style luxury and a spacious drive, it’s worth considering the investment. 

This vehicle has one of the most sophisticated interiors on the list. With luxurious materials, impeccable build quality, and tech-rich dual curved screens, it’s a delight to drive and experience. 

Alongside a swanky interior, the iX offers up to 380 miles of range and is ideal for long trips. And for power seekers, the iX M60’s 619 hp can hit 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, delivering a thrilling drive.

The Korean brand Genesis is slowly gaining more popularity within the UK, especially with the Genesis GV60 electric SUV car. 

This extremely quiet vehicle has a generous range of approximately 321 miles, allowing you to drive for hours without stress. It also boasts fast charging, as a 10 to 80% top-up takes as little as 20 minutes. 

To top it all off, the car has an attractive interior and an impressive infotainment system. The only drawback is that the boot and rear space are smaller than other options on this list.

If you like the look of the famous Tesla Model 3 but want more space and an SUV-like drive, the Tesla Model Y could be a match for you.

This spacious five-door, five-seat model boasts a tech-filled, minimalist interior with extra rear headroom and a light, airy feel thanks to its panoramic roof. 

Want more speed? The top Performance version thrills, hitting 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, while even the Long Range model completes the sprint in under five seconds. 

With a range of up to 315 miles, it’s both practical and exciting—a perfect blend of style and performance. 

Everything you’d expect from a Tesla vehicle!

The Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t the largest electric SUV, coming in at around 4.4 metres in length. But don’t scroll away! This model is surprisingly spacious and has an impressive electric range. 

Other highlights of the Kona Electric include plenty of legroom for occupants and luggage, a 466-litre boot space, a user-friendly dashboard, and light steering. 

However, some drivers may not find the drive as enjoyable as others on the list. So, if drive feel is your priority, it might not be the SUV for you.

Calling anyone looking for a family car! The Electric Renault Scenic is here to transform the school run into a stylish affair.

With 545 litres of boot space, a five-star Euro NCAP 

 and a range of up to 379m miles (with the largest battery size), the Scenic can assist on all occasions. Plus, drivers boast that the Scenic is comfortable over bumps, which is ideal if you’re transporting little ones. 

The only drawbacks include poor rear visibility and a more basic interior style.

Experience a modern fusion of sports performance, sleek estate car aesthetics, and SUV-level functionality with the Kia EV6. 

The base models of this car aren’t the fastest, but they make up for their speed with a 328-mile range and lots of high-tech features, such as an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear door storage, and rain-sensing front wipers.

This car is spacious and feels undoubtedly modern. The downsides? It has smaller boot space than other options.

Like the look of the Kia EV6, but aren’t sure if it’s for you? Well, take a moment to check out the Kia EV9 — a larger, three-row electric SUV car designed for families. 

 five doors, and a battery range of up to 349 miles, it’s worth the investment if you want more space and practicality. 

Other features include a modern interior, fast charging, touchscreen navigation, eCall system, and wireless mobile phone chargers.

However, some drivers complain that the car is too loud at motorway speeds.

When you think of Smart cars, does the image of a small, city car pop into your mind? Smart is known for their pint-sized vehicles, but the Smart #1 offers an SUV-sized alternative!

Like other Smart cars, the #1 has an undeniably cool look and a modern interior. It also boasts space for four passengers and a battery range of up to 273 miles. It's not the longest, but it's nothing to scoff at, either!

The boot sits at 313 litres, which is enough for luggage and daily drives, but if your priority is an SUV with ample space, you might need a larger model.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the second electric SUV car from the brand on this page, and for good reason! 

The Ioniq 5 has a battery range of up to 354 miles, two large high-resolution screens, and an attractive futuristic design. Overall, the exterior and interior are made from high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and 

 However, a few buttons and switches on the interior feel cheap.

Want the frills of the Ioniq 5 with extra speed? There’s also a ballistic 641hp N high-performance 

The Audi Q4 e-tron offers up to 330 miles of range, a comfortable ride, plenty of rear seat room, and a 

However, its interior is solid but not particularly exciting. Not ideal if you’re imagining a swanky cabin experience.

You should also note that not all models have parking and reversing sensors. If these are non-negotiable, make sure you look at the specification before buying!

 Enyaq may not be the most well-known electric SUV car. Still, it offers a comfortable and smooth ride with a spacious interior that stands out, especially compared to more basic competitors.

The cabin features high-quality materials, 

. Its sleek and understated design, with sharp lines and slim headlights, steers clear of the over-the-top futuristic look found in some rivals. 

With a range of up to 345 miles in the Coupe version, it’s an excellent option for long-distance travel. Road trip, anyone?

The Ford Mustang Mach-E ushers legendary Mustang performance into the electric era, offering a practical yet stylish interior and a solid driving range of up to 372 miles—a respectable number for any EV. 

Inside, you can expect a large vertical touchscreen, with intuitive menus and sharp graphics. The cabin is spacious, featuring ample front storage and decent rear headroom, despite the sloping roofline. 

Although the ride can feel a bit firm over bumps, the Mach-E compensates with thrilling handling, making it one of the most fun electric SUVs on the market. 

Electric SUV cars offer a perfect blend of practicality, sustainability, and performance, with long driving ranges, spacious interiors, and lower running costs. So, if you’re interested in these eco-friendly picks, this is your sign to go for it!

 offers zero-interest financing on car repairs — including the best electric SUV cars!

 who provide expert electric SUV car repairs to ensure your car is road-safe and ready to go. 

Or get the lowdown on the latest news and other car guides. 

Your Guide To The Best Electric SUV Cars

The ability to charge your hybrid vehicle has been a transformative but relatively new concept in the world of hybrids, with the first plug-in hybrid sold in Europe being the Opel Ampera in 2011, over a decade after the first mass produced hybrid, the Toyota Prius was released. 

Since then, plug-in hybrids have carved out a significant segment of not only the electric vehicle market, but the market for new vehicles as a whole, offering better MPG than internal combustion engines, and more usability than electric only ones. Here are some of the best PHEVs currently available.

Volvo were almost a very early adopter of the PHEV powertrain, developing a working V70 plug-in hybrid in 2009. Whilst that model didn't get put into production, the 

 certainly did, and is now one of Volvo's highest selling models.

The XC60 is the sweet spot for SUVs, especially to be driven in the UK. It’s large enough to give the road presence and higher driving position of a traditional SUV, but is easier to park than the huge XC90. It also comes with a ridiculous 455hp powertrain.

Toyota are usually a safe bet, and they certainly know their stuff when it comes to hybrids.

 is a good example of the PHEV format, offering a respectable 46 miles of EV-only range, perfect for a short commute, with a high-tech but not underpowered 2.5-litre petrol engine to take over. 

 spec is quite good value, with a usable 218hp and a 10.5” touchscreen for nav, entertainment and various vehicle controls.

Its exterior styling might not be to everyone's taste, with the front grille looking a little too angular, the inside is functional and stylish.

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