Want a new barbecue but can’t choose between the convenience of gas and the flavour of charcoal? The Char-Broil® Gas2Coal Hybrid Grill delivers both options in one unit. Read my review below.
For years our barbecues were cheap, charcoal-only models that rarely survived a single season. Ash would collect, covers failed to keep out the rain, and rust would take over by winter. Eventually we gave up owning a barbecue altogether and went without for several summers.
That changed when we tested the Char-Broil® Gas2Coal Hybrid Grill. As the name implies, this is a gas grill that converts easily to charcoal by placing briquettes into a specially designed tray. The gas burners ignite the charcoal and bring it up to cooking temperature without lighter fluid or fuss, so you get charcoal flavour without the usual mess and delay. All you need is a standard propane tank to power the burner.
Some assembly required
The grill arrives flat-packed and does require assembly. Expect to spend a couple of hours putting it together while carefully following the instructions. If, like me, you’re not keen on instruction manuals, enlist some help—assembly is straightforward but benefits from an extra pair of hands for positioning parts and tightening fittings. Once assembled, the unit rolls easily into position on the patio or garden.
Extra features
Beyond its hybrid capability, the Char-Broil Gas2Coal offers several useful features. The cooking grates are porcelain-coated, which helps resist rust and makes cleaning simpler. A side burner provides a space to warm sauces or side dishes while you grill. The lid-mounted temperature gauge lets you monitor internal heat for lower-temperature cooking or roasting. There is also provision for an optional rotisserie attachment for whole birds or roasts, which expands the range of meals you can prepare.
Putting the Gas2Coal Hybrid Grill to the test
Once assembled, the grill is fast to reach cooking temperature. Using gas only, it can be ready in under ten minutes; using the gas-assisted charcoal mode takes around 15 minutes. That removes the long wait for coals to ash over and the need for lighter fluid. Heat distributes evenly across the cooking surface, and closing the lid helps maintain stable temperatures for searing, roasting, or slow cooking. The reduced smoke output compared with conventional charcoal-only grills is a real benefit for those with neighbours close by or smaller outdoor spaces.
We used the grill several times the first weekend it was set up. It performed well for a range of dishes: chicken skewers, burgers, grilled aubergine, corn on the cob, and jacket potatoes all cooked quickly and evenly. The gas setting is perfect for quick weeknight meals, while the charcoal mode adds that sought-after smoky character for weekend cooking. Since the initial trial we’ve used it repeatedly; the only limiting factor has been the British weather.
What’s the verdict?
What’s the verdict?The Char-Broil Gas2Coal Hybrid Grill is a versatile and user-friendly barbecue that suits a wide range of cooks. It combines the convenience and speed of gas with the scent and flavour boost of charcoal, while avoiding much of the mess associated with traditional charcoal grills. The build quality, porcelain-coated grates, side burner and lid thermometer are practical touches that improve the overall cooking experience. For anyone who wants flexibility, reliability and faster cooking times, this hybrid model is a compelling choice.
Some barbecue recipes to inspire you
• Greek souvlaki: use the coal mode to get authentic smoky char and flavour for skewered pork or chicken.
• Burgers: the grill cooks burgers quickly and keeps them juicy. Toast the buns on the grates for added texture. Try classic beef patties or mix beef with sausage for extra richness.
• Butterflied leg of lamb: the even heat and lid thermometer help roast larger cuts efficiently while keeping them succulent.
• Dry-rubbed ribs with barbecue sauce: low-and-slow over the coals adds depth to rubs and sauces—this grill handles both searing and gentler cooking well.
The Char-Broil® Gas2Coal Hybrid Grill typically retails from £369.99 and is sold through various retailers. It’s a good option for anyone seeking a reliable, flexible barbecue that brings charcoal flavour without the usual hassle.