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Top 10 Best Hybrid Cars in Australia
18 July 2024
AutoMarket, Tips & Advice
Looking to save some cash and cruise with a cleaner conscience? Then buckle up, because the best hybrid cars in Australia are here!
These beauties combine a petrol engine's power with an electric motor's efficiency, giving you the best of both worlds– excellent fuel economy and the freedom to hit the road without stressing about finding a charging station.
We've compiled a list of the top ten hybrid contenders to suit your Aussie driving style and budget. Whether you're a city slicker or a weekend warrior, a hybrid hero is waiting to join your adventures.
What’s Inside?
How Do Hybrid Cars Work?
In a nutshell, hybrid cars combine two power sources–a gasoline engine and an electric motor. They also have a battery pack that stores electricity. Here's a breakdown of how it works.
First, the gasoline engine runs like a traditional car engine, but it's often smaller and more efficient. The electric car, on the other hand, gets its juice from the battery pack.
Hybrid cars also have a clever on-board computer that decides which power source to use, or even a combination of both, depending on the driving situation.
Hybrids are particularly good at utilising regenerative braking. When you slow down or brake, the electric motor converts that braking energy into electricity, which is then stored back in the battery for later use.
Thankfully, the transition between electric and gasoline power is usually very smooth, and you won't feel any jerking or hesitation.
Types of Hybrid Cars
Hybrid cars can come in many shapes and forms, but they all fall into two categories.
Regular Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
These hybrids cannot be plugged into an external power source. The battery is charged by the gasoline engine and through regenerative braking.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Contrary to the first one, PHEVs can be plugged in to charge the battery from an external source, allowing for longer electric-only driving ranges. However, they still have a gasoline engine for backup power when the battery gets depleted.
How To Choose The Best Hybrid Cars in Australia?
The best hybrid cars in Australia can underwhelm you if you don’t have a clear grasp of your driving needs. That's why we made this rundown of how you can choose the best hybrid cars in Australia that fully solve your road desires.
Your Daily Commute
How long do your car trips take? This question exactly addresses your daily commute, which will factor in on your hybrid choice.
If your commute is mostly short trips around town, a hybrid with a strong electric motor and good city fuel economy might be ideal.
For longer highway commutes, prioritise fuel efficiency for both electric and gasoline power. Look for hybrids with good combined MPG ratings, like the Toyota Camry Hybrid or Ford Escape Hybrid.
Cargo and Passenger Needs
Much like your previous car options, cargo space is also a top priority when looking for hybrids.
If you need space for passengers and cargo, a hybrid SUV like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, or Kia Niro could be perfect.
For a smaller, more fuel-efficient option, consider a hybrid hatchback or sedan.
Budget
Your car budget is a huge consideration when searching for the best hybrid cars in Australia. Are you willing to spend on a new one or opt for a used hybrid?
New hybrids typically come with higher price tags, but they offer the latest features and warranties. Used hybrids can be a good value option, but to begin, research their battery health and maintenance history.
Fuel savings and upfront costs can also dictate what hybrid you should purchase. While hybrids cost more upfront than gasoline cars, the fuel savings over time can outweigh the initial investment.
Plug-in Hybrid Vs. Regular Hybrid
Now that we’ve brought into question the types of hybrids available on the market, it’s time for you to make a call.
What can PHEVs offer? It can drive on electric power for shorter commutes, but it also requires charging and might have a smaller gasoline engine for longer trips.
As for regular hybrids, they don't require plugging in and offer good fuel economy with a gasoline engine for backup.
The 10 Best Hybrid Cars in Australia
Now that you know what to find on an ideal hybrid, let's test it out and find the best hybrid cars in Australia in this comprehensive list. Who knows, one of these cars could be your driving partner soon.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
First, let's meet the Toyota Corolla Hybrid, one of Australia's best-sellers. It stands out as a compelling choice in the sea of hybrid cars in Australia.
It consistently ranks among the most fuel-efficient hybrids in its class, boasting excellent city and highway mileage at 4.2 L per 100 km travelled. This translates to significant gas savings, especially with fluctuating fuel prices in Australia.
Coming from a reliable Toyota carmaker, it is renowned for its reliable vehicles, and this Corolla is no exception. The Corolla Hybrid inherits this reputation, giving you peace of mind on the road and potentially lower maintenance costs in the long run.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Next on our list, the well-known Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It's always in the conversations for the best hybrid cars in Australia, and for great reasons.
The RAV4's accolades speak for themselves. It secured the coveted CarsGuide Car of the Year award in 2019, solidifying its position as one of the best hybrid SUVs and most value-driven hybrids available.
Prices start at $42,260 (excluding on-road costs) for the base GX Hybrid with two-wheel drive. This version boasts impressive fuel efficiency figures as low as 4.7L/100km. For drivers seeking extra power, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive ‘eFour’ option is also available.
Toyota Kluger Hybrid
Toyota has another one in the best hybrid cars in Australia list, and here comes the Kluger.
To offer a more family-oriented hybrid option, Toyota introduced the Kluger Hybrid as a successor to the Prius V. This SUV boasts a 2.5-litre gasoline engine paired with a dual-motor electric system, delivering an impressive fuel efficiency rating of 5.6L/100km.
Safety? Kluger gives you that peace of mind too. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, ensuring a secure and protected driving experience.
Nissan X-Trail e-Power Hybrid
Nissan has finally entered the chat, bringing its beloved X-Trail e-Power to the best hybrid cars in Australia conversation.
This hybrid is making a strong comeback with a complete overhaul. Boasting sharp new styling, cutting-edge technology, and a unique hybrid powertrain, the X-Trail e-Power sets its sights on dethroning the popular Toyota RAV4.
Nissan takes a different approach with its e-Power technology compared to Toyota's established hybrid system. In contrast to Toyota's system, which can use both electric and gasoline power to drive the wheels, the X-Trail e-Power relies solely on electric motors for propulsion.
Kia Sorento Hybrid
Kia Sorento is always mentioned as one of the best hybrid cars in Australia for families, and we figured out why.
It offers a compelling hybrid option for eco-conscious drivers who don't want to compromise on features. Available in both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and self-charging hybrid versions, the Sorento comes in a single, well-equipped GT-Line trim that boasts all the latest safety technologies and creature comforts that modern car buyers demand.
The self-charging hybrid delivers impressive fuel efficiency, even surpassing the Toyota Kluger. The front-wheel-drive model achieves a remarkable 5.5L/100km fuel consumption rating. This efficient powertrain combines a 1.6-litre gasoline engine with an electric motor working seamlessly together through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Hyundai Kona Hybrid
Hyundai Kona also makes it here among the best hybrid cars in Australia, as the second-generation Hyundai lineup expands to include a hybrid electric option.
Unlike the continuously variable transmissions (e-CVT) found in Toyota hybrids or the single-speed reduction gear used in the Nissan X-Trail e-Power, the Kona Hybrid takes a different approach. It utilises a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) with the electric motor cleverly positioned between the transmission and the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine.
Another noteworthy change is the availability of the Kona Hybrid in more basic and affordable trim levels. This move by Hyundai caters to a wider range of budgets, making hybrid technology more accessible to drivers.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Mitsubishi Outlander's PHEV also deserves a spot on this list. Marking a significant comeback for Mitsubishi, the all-new Outlander PHEV arrives as a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment.
This second-generation plug-in hybrid stands out for its affordability compared to some competitors, while offering unique features like available seven-seater seating and the ability to utilize fast public charging stations for quicker top-ups.
Under the hood, the Outlander PHEV combines a 2.5-litre gasoline engine with an electric motor working through a sophisticated hybrid transmission system.
Lexus NX Hybrid
Move beyond the idea of a gussied-up Toyota RAV4. The Lexus NX Hybrid offers a distinct experience that goes far beyond a premium price tag and luxurious appointments. As a core member of Lexus' new design language, the NX showcases styling cues that will shape the future of the brand.
The NX Hybrid boasts a powerful yet efficient powertrain that combines a 2.5-litre gasoline engine with an electric motor. This system achieves an impressive fuel consumption rating of as low as 5.0L/100km, making it a compelling choice for eco-conscious luxury car buyers.
Furthermore, the NX Hybrid starts at around $70,000, positioning it as one of the most affordable luxury hybrid SUVs available.
Honda CR-V Hybrid
Honda makes a splash with the next-generation CR-V, earning its spot here in the best hybrid cars in Australia, and aiming to reclaim its position as a leader in the SUV market.
This all-new CR-V boasts a larger and more stylish design, along with the much-anticipated introduction of Honda's impressive hybrid powertrain.
At launch, the CR-V e: HEV takes centre stage. This hybrid system pairs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, operating similarly to Toyota's well-established hybrid technology.
While the initial offering is limited to the top-of-the-line RS trim, Honda plans to expand the CR-V e: HEV lineup with more grades throughout 2024 and beyond.
Haval Jolion HEV
An unusual name in this rundown, Haval Julion HEV emerges as a strong contender in the small SUV segment, offering a compelling alternative to established players like the Toyota Corolla Cross. This Chinese-made hybrid stands out for its attractive price point, making hybrid technology more accessible to a wider range of Australian drivers.
Beyond affordability, the Jolion HEV impresses with exceptional fuel efficiency. Its powerful hybrid system seamlessly integrates with a smooth-shifting hybrid transaxle, which feels like a traditional CVT to the driver.
Your New Hybrid Cars On Us!
There you have it - our top ten picks for the best hybrid cars cruising Australian roads. Remember, this is just a taste of the fantastic hybrid options available. Whether you're after a spacious SUV for the family or a sleek sedan for city commutes, there's a hybrid out there waiting to meet your needs.
Ready to rev up your green driving journey? Motor Matcher, Australia's favourite online car classifieds platform, is the place for that! We have a massive selection of new and used hybrid cars from all the top brands, and trusted sellers.
Visit Motor Matcher today here and experience the future of driving!