What Is the Difference Between Hybrid and Electric Vehicles?

How Subaru EVs and Hybrids Compare

If you are comparing hybrid cars vs electric cars, the most important thing to understand is how the vehicle is powered and how that fits your daily driving. Electric vehicles run only on electricity. Hybrid vehicles combine gas and electric power. Plug-in hybrids sit between the two.

Subaru offers options across this spectrum, so once you understand the difference between EV, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid, choosing the right model becomes straightforward.

Hybrid vs Electric Cars Explained Simply

What Is a Hybrid Electric Vehicle?

A hybrid electric vehicle uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The vehicle automatically switches between them to improve fuel efficiency.

Key things to know:

• You do not plug in a standard hybrid

• The battery charges while driving and braking

• You fuel up at a normal gas station

This matters because you get better MPG without changing your routine.

What Is an Electric Vehicle?

An electric vehicle uses only electricity. There is no gas engine.

Key things to know:

• You must charge it

• Charging can happen at home or public stations

• Driving range depends on battery size and charging habits

Electric vehicles eliminate fuel costs but require planning around charging.

Plug-In Hybrid vs Hybrid vs EV

Here is how the three compare:

Hybrid

• Gas plus electric

• No charging required

• Best for drivers who want better MPG without lifestyle changes

Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)

• Gas plus electric

• Can be charged but does not require it

• Short electric-only driving range

• Gas engine acts as backup

Electric Vehicle

• Electric only

• Requires charging

• Zero gas usage

Hybrid Cars vs Electric Cars

Which Is Better for Minnesota Driving?

For Twin Cities drivers, the decision often comes down to charging access and winter reliability.

Hybrid vehicles perform consistently in cold weather and refuel anywhere. Electric vehicles offer quiet driving and lower operating costs but depend on charging availability and winter range considerations.

Subaru designs all electrified models with all-wheel drive in mind, which sets them apart from many competitors.

Subaru Hybrid Models Explained

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and Subaru Forester Hybrid

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and Subaru Forester Hybrid use the same self-charging hybrid system. You never plug them in. The gas engine and electric motors work together automatically to improve fuel efficiency, especially in city driving.

Why they fit this category:

• No plug-in charging required

• Gas engine and electric motors operate seamlessly

• Battery charges through driving and regenerative braking

• Improved fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic

• Standard all-wheel drive

Best for drivers who want better MPG without changing habits, installing chargers, or planning trips around charging availability.

Subaru Electric Vehicle Models Explained

Subaru Solterra

The Solterra is Subaru’s fully electric SUV.

Why it fits this category:

• Electric-only powertrain

• All-wheel drive

• Designed specifically as an EV platform

Best for drivers who are ready to commit to charging and want an electric SUV with Subaru capability.

Subaru Uncharted

The Subaru Uncharted is an upcoming electric SUV designed to expand Subaru’s EV lineup.

What it represents:

• Compact electric SUV direction

• Urban and suburban focus

• Electric-first design

Best for drivers interested in future Subaru EV options in a smaller footprint.

Subaru Trailseeker

The Subaru Trailseeker represents Subaru’s electric adventure-focused direction.

What it represents:

• Electric SUV built for outdoor lifestyles

• Emphasis on capability and traction

• EV performance paired with Subaru durability

Best for drivers who want an electric vehicle that aligns with outdoor use and rugged driving.

Hybrid vs Electric

Which Subaru Fits Your Lifestyle?

Choose a Subaru Hybrid if you:

• Want better fuel efficiency

• Do not want to charge

• Drive frequently in city traffic

• Value simplicity and flexibility

Choose a Subaru Electric Vehicle if you:

• Can charge at home or work

• Want to eliminate gas

• Are comfortable planning charging stops

Test Drive and Learn More at Walser Subaru Burnsville

The best way to decide between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle is to drive them back to back.

At Walser Subaru Burnsville, you can explore Subaru hybrid and electric models in person, compare features side by side, and get straightforward answers from a team that understands Minnesota driving, winter conditions, and daily commutes.

View Inventory 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hybrid electric vehicle?

A vehicle that uses both gas and electric power to improve efficiency without charging.

What is the difference between hybrid and electric cars?

Hybrids use gas and electricity. Electric cars use only electricity.

Do hybrid cars need to be charged?

Standard hybrids do not. Plug-in hybrids can be charged but do not require it.

Are electric vehicles better than hybrids?

Neither is better for everyone. The best choice depends on driving habits, charging access, and climate.