---
title: What's The Difference Between A Hybrid and A Plug-In Hybrid?
description: Car Pro Show Host Jerry Reynolds explains the difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid.
---

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# [What's The Difference Between A Hybrid and A Plug-In Hybrid?](https://www.carpro.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-hybrid-and-a-plug-in-hybrid)

 Written by [Jerry Reynolds](https://www.carpro.com/blog/author/jerry-reynolds) | Jul 10, 2026 1:41:10 PM

 

Q:  What's the difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid? 

A traditional hybrid combines a gas engine with an electric motor and a modest battery pack. The result is significantly improved fuel economy, especially in city driving, along with savings at the pump. A plug-in hybrid upgrades to a larger battery and adds a charging port used to plug-ins to the electric grid. Plug-ins offer pure all-electric range suitable for short commutes.  For example, the 2026 Toyota Prius PHEV Nightshade shown above delivers up to 44-Miles of Manufacturer-Estimated all-electric driving range.  

[For everything you need to know about hybrids, check out my in-depth special report here →](https://www.carpro.com/blog/special-report-hybrids-everything-you-need-to-know)

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2026 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid Nightshade. Credit: Toyota.

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