If you want a versatile, spacious, and efficient SUV, consider the Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid. This model combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 14.4 kWh battery pack, delivering a total of 225 horsepower and an impressive fuel economy of 201 mpg (combined cycle).
The Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid can run on electric power alone for up to 35 miles, which is enough for most daily commutes and errands. You can charge the battery at home or at a public charging station, and it takes about 3.5 hours to recharge using a 230-volt outlet. Alternatively, you can use the regenerative braking system to recapture some of the energy lost during deceleration and coasting.
The Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid also offers a range of driving modes to suit different road conditions and preferences. You can choose from Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later, and EV Charge modes, which let you decide how much you want to rely on the electric motor or the gasoline engine. For example, you can select EV Now mode to drive emissions-free in the city or EV Later mode to save some battery power for later use.
One of the advantages of choosing a plug-in hybrid over a conventional hybrid is that you can benefit from lower taxes and incentives in some countries. For instance, in Denmark, the Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid qualifies for a reduced registration tax of 20%, compared to 65% for regular hybrids and 85% for gasoline or diesel cars. This means that you can save up to $18,000 on the purchase price of the Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid, depending on the trim level and options.
Another perk of owning a plug-in hybrid is that you can access some restricted zones and parking spaces that are reserved for low-emission vehicles. For example, in some European cities, you can enter low-emission zones without paying a fee or obtaining a permit if you drive a plug-in hybrid that meets certain criteria. You can also park for free or at a discounted rate in some areas that encourage eco-friendly driving.