What Cars Are Hybrid?

Hybrid Vehicles In Australia

Hybrid vehicles are continuously becoming a priority for many automakers as they seek to phase out cars that use internal-combustion engines only. Furthermore, many nations are beginning to implement the use of green energy vehicles, with some setting a target for the year 2030. Most of the green energy vehicles in the Australian auto market are hybrids.

For car owners who love the environment, eco-friendly and efficient vehicles have become the primary option. According to JP Morgan, hybrid cars are expected to constitute a massive 23% of all vehicles sold globally. The thing about a hybrid car is that it offers you a reliable combination of both an internal-combustion engine and an electric motor.

The combination remedies the shortcomings of their more conventional counterparts. And for car owners who want electric vehicles but are worried about their range capability, hybrid cars are the solution. This article will provide all the necessary information you need to know about hybrids and some of the best hybrid vehicles in Australia.

How Does A Hybrid Vehicle Work?

Hybrid vehicles are referred to as 'hybrid' because they are fitted with an electric motor and an internal-combustion engine. When driving a hybrid car, you won't feel much difference because the systems are more independent, and the vehicle moves just like the more conventional ones. Additionally, its wheels can be powered by an internal-combustion engine, electric motor, or both.

The best thing about it is that energy is generated and stored by the electric motor when using the internal-combustion engine. Ideally, hybrid vehicles also help you save on fuel consumption, thus saving on money used to buy fuel. With the hybrid's regenerative braking feature, you won't have to worry about plugging in your car to charge the electric motor.

Are you looking to join the green energy revolution? Well, the truth is that it is an awesome idea, especially for environmental conservation. But that's not the only reason you should consider going 'green.' Over the years, gas prices have continuously increased, primarily due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic recently.

In addition, the effects of inflation on the economy have also led to a sharp increase in gas prices. You have to reflect on how much you spend on fuel every month. Are you spending more to fuel your car than on other expenses? Well, the fact is that the effect of a hybrid vehicle on your electricity bill (for plug-in hybrids) is quite negligible compared to what you spend on buying fuel.

What Is A Plug-In Hybrid?

A PHEV, also known as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, is a car solely powered by a large battery electric motor which is primarily recharged by plugging the car into a source of electricity. Basically, a PHEV works the same way a hybrid electric vehicle does, except that they have larger batteries. This means that PHEVs can rely solely on the electric motor, which can go up to 60 kilometres.

However, if the motor is completely depleted, PHES can fall back to the internal-combustion engine. Since PHEVs rarely rely on the internal-combustion engine, they are more eco-friendly than their HEV counterparts. The catch, however, is that you will pay more for a PHEV than an HEV.

What Are The Pros Of Owning A Hybrid Vehicle?

Eco-friendly

Hybrid vehicles are more eco-friendly. Switching to the hybrid version of your current car model (if it has gone green) guarantees lower CO2 emissions, greater fuel efficiency, and better gas mileage. The regenerative braking feature in most hybrid vehicles also significantly reduces fuel consumption, thus helping you save money.

Flexibility

You don't have to worry about the range capability of a hybrid car. Since the car has both an electric motor and an internal-combustion engine, you can switch to the latter when the electric motor is depleted. Additionally, the motor is recharged as you use the internal-combustion engine. This has tremendously compensated for the existence of few charging stations for electric vehicles.

Less maintenance

Hybrid cars require less maintenance compared to the standard gas car. Internal-combustion engines are pretty prone to wear and tear, thus requiring you to constantly maintain them. On the other hand, hybrid vehicles are propelled by an electric motor and a large battery pack that does not require a lot of maintenance routines or costs.

High resale value

A critical factor in owning a car is the resale value. Hybrid vehicles are gaining a lot of popularity in the auto industry because of the sharp increase in gas prices. Many people are opting for more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly cars because of that. This means that if you think about selling or trading your hybrid vehicle, you could get a higher return on investment.

What Are The Cons Of Hybrid Vehicles?

• The repair costs of hybrid vehicles are very high, even though it requires less maintenance. For instance, replacing a high-voltage battery can cost quite a fortune, depending on your car model. Additionally, hybrid cars consist of complex systems that require trained or expert mechanics who can fix them properly. Eventually, you'll spend thousands of dollars fixing a hybrid vehicle.

• Since hybrid vehicles are designed to be eco-friendlier and more fuel-efficient rather than fast, they have less power compared to their conventional counterparts.

• Even with the on-road cost included, the initial cost is higher than the standard internal-combustion engine vehicles. The running costs and fuel costs might be cheaper, but you'll pay a higher upfront cost to get a hybrid car.

Which Are The Best Hybrid Vehicles In Australia?

Toyota Rav4

The Toyota Rav4 is the best-selling mid-size SUV in Australia and should be among the first options if you are looking for a hybrid SUV. The car offers excellent safety features, formidable performance, a high level of comfort, and up-to-date tech that gives it an edge over many hybrid vehicles.

The Rav4 also features the AWD (All-Wheel Drive) option that has an extra generator on top of the two featured in the FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) format. The extra generator is responsible for roughly 80% of the torque in the rear axle. As a result, you'll be able to comfortably navigate through mud, sand, and other unstable surfaces. The Rav4 might not be as cheap as you'd want, but it is an excellent choice that will serve you well for both long and short trips. Its price starts from approximately $36,900.

Ford Escape

The Ford Escape was recently updated to compete successfully with other hybrids, such as the Toyota Rav4. It is a popular car that many Australians love. According to different reviews, the Ford Escape can be described as agile, dynamic, powerful, and versatile. The car features quite an impressive series of Driver Assist Technologies, such as:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

• Intelligent Speed Assist

• Pre-Collision Assist, which detects pedestrians and cyclists

The impressive safety features and advanced technologies make driving effortless and seamless on the road. Consumers love it because it combines convenience, comfort, and safety. The Ford Escape also features a decent space, making it a good option for families. The price of the Ford Escape starts from approximately $35,990, excluding on-road costs.

Toyota Kluger

There are few large hybrid SUVs; thus, the Toyota Kluger serves as an excellent choice for larger families looking for a hybrid electric SUV. The 7-seater hybrid SUV was among the best-selling large SUVs in 2021.

The car uses about 5.6 litres of fuel per 100km, thus making it a very fuel-efficient hybrid SUV. You can depend on the Toyota Kluger to carry your family and luggage when going on any type of trip (whether short or long).

The car also features an entertainment package on the rear seat that improves passenger experience during trips. Kluger's technology is quite standard compared to other SUVs in the same class. However, the car's safety rating by ANCAP (The Australasian New Car Assessment Program) stands at 5-star. Its price ranges from approximately $47,650 to $75,700.

Lexus NX 450h+

Lexus is not a new name when we talk about hybrid electric vehicles. The NX 450h+ features auto-levelling tri-beam LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, smart keyless entry/start, and many more impressive attributes. The hybrid also comes with an expanded connected services technology from Lexus, which includes a smartphone app.

The app comes with impressive technology, such as SOS emergency calls, automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle tracking, and the ability to remotely control the car. The NX 450h+'s steering wheel has buttons that help you operate smart functions such as lane-keeping and active cruise control.

The Lexus NX 450h+ also features electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and excellent pedal response that ensure you have an exceptional driving experience. Its price starts from approximately $89,900 without on-road costs.

Kia Niro

Niro was the first fully electric car to be launched by Kia in Australia last year. This followed a 3-year wait since its release overseas. Kia Niro is, however, much more expensive in Australia than a Tesla Model 3 long-range. But what features make it this expensive?

The mid-size, eco-friendly SUV has a simple exterior design that might not impress you if you prefer more luxurious and posh designs. One of the Kia Niro's main benefits is that it is stable and comfortable both off-road and on-road. The interior is quite comfortable and spacious.

The aesthetics and the design might not impress you, but you will have a comfortable driving experience. As you might have already predicted, the car's technology is at a basic standard. However, the Kia Niro has a 5-star safety rating on ANCAP. Its price ranges from roughly $41,990 to $70,990.

Toyota Corolla Hybrid

For more than 50 years, over 1.5 million Toyota Corolla cars have been sold in Australia and over 50 million globally. That makes Toyota Corolla the most popular car model in the world. The Corolla has been topping the charts in Australia consistently; however, it falls behind the Rav4 and Hilux.

But then Toyota Corolla Hybrid offers Aussies a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain at a seemingly affordable cost that overshadows its competitors. Another plus is that the car has a 5-start safety rating from ANCAP. Some of the car's safety features include:

• Adaptive cruise control

• AEB that detects pedestrians and cyclists

• Driver's knee airbag

• Lane departure warning

• Lane Trace Assist

• Lane-keeping assist

• Reversing camera

• Traffic sign recognition

The hybrid car costs less than $35,000 without on-road costs making it affordable and more efficient than its competitors.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Toyota Camry hybrid continues to soldier on in a competitive market that is dominated by dual-cab Utes and SUVs. The Camry bests its rivals like Mazda 6 and many more in the passenger car segment. When you get into a Toyota Camry, you'll meet interior features and equipment that resemble a Lexus. The Camry hybrid features alloy wheels, LED lights, and a rear-view camera. From a safety perspective, the Camry features:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Autonomous emergency braking

• Lane-departure warning

• Rear cross-traffic alert

• Road sign detection

The Camry hybrid also has two electric motors and an Atkinson cycle petrol engine that powers its front wheels. In terms of space, the Camry doesn't lack. It has enormous boot space as well as cabin space. To get a Toyota Camry, you'll have to pay at least $46,990 (not including on-road costs).

Honda Accord Hybrid

The Honda Accord hybrid is a medium-sized Japanese car launched in the Australian auto market in 2021. Even though it has fallen behind its Civic, CR-V, and HR-V counterparts, the Accord is directly positioned as a competitor to other hybrids, such as the Toyota Camry.

The car has a fuel economy of about 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The Accord has impressive safety packages comprising adaptive cruise control, AEB, and lane-keeping assistance. The Accord has a 5-star ANCAP rating. Its price ranges from roughly $57,400 to $61,900, plus on-road costs.

Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is a 7-seater hybrid car with a fuel economy of about 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The hybrid vehicle features a lithium-ion battery that powers its electric motor and a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine. The car features safety controls such as ABS, downhill brake control, hill start assist, multi-collision braking, front and rear parking sensors, trailer assist, and stability control.

One of Sorento's coolest features is blind spot detection, which helps you on the road, especially when changing lanes. The car, however, isn't perfect if you plan to tow a trailer or caravan while on a trip off-road. But it is a good family car with plenty of room. Its price ranges from approximately $66,750 to $80,330 without on-road costs.

Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid

Even though the Yaris Cross is Toyota's smallest hybrid SUV, it offers a lot more than you can imagine. Toyota just added the suffix 'Cross' to its well-known model Yaris so that it could quickly compete with rivals. The Yaris saw a sharp decline in sales, but its Yaris Cross counterpart just picked up from where it left off. The Yaris Cross hybrid features safety tech like:

• Adaptive radar cruise control

• Autonomous emergency braking

• Blind-spot monitoring

• Daytime intersection turn assist

• Emergency steering assist

• Lane-departure alert

• Lane-trace assist

• Rear cross-traffic light

• Road sign assist

On top of that, it also has smart features like emergency call functions, automatic collision notifications, satellite navigation, stolen vehicle tracking, and LED headlights. Its price starts from about $31,990 inclusive of on-road costs.

Hyundai Ioniq

The Hyundai Ioniq recently got some upgrades, meaning there are new variants with higher prices. The hybrid comes in two variants: AWD Techniq and rear-drive Dynamiq, which cost $77,500 and $69,900, respectively (including on-road costs). The car features safety systems like:

• A 360-degree camera

• Adaptive cruise control

• Autonomous emergency braking with junction support

• Blind-spot monitoring

• Hyundai's blind-spot view monitor system

• Lane-following assist

• Rear cross-traffic alert

• Remote parking from the key fob

Both variants feature standard equipment, including:

• 12.3-inch (31.2 cm) screens

• 20-inch alloy wheels

• Bose audio

• Eco-friendly leather trim

• Glass roof

• Heated rear seats and steering wheel

• Led headlights

• Power tailgate

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV features a larger battery meaning that it has more powerful electric motors, more range, and massive safety and technology upgrades. The 7-seater PHEV is powered by an electric motor paired with a 2.4-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine.

The latest upgrade to the hybrid car is bi-directional charging, which enables the transfer of energy to your home's electrical grid from the car's battery pack. In a nutshell, the feature allows you to power your home using your car. The standard features for all variants include: a 9.0-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, climate control, eight airbags, and LED headlights.

The car's safety system features adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Its price ranges from approximately $54,590 to $68,490 (excluding on-road costs).

BMW 330e

The BMW 330e is a luxurious hybrid priced at a massive $97,400 before on-road costs. The car features a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. The vehicle also features an extra eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission that delivers power to its rear wheels.

The car also received a significant update of the BMW curved display that runs the latest BMW operating system. This new system features an intelligent personal assistant and can also run software updates. The hybrid car also features a tri-zone climate control which you can operate using either the control display or voice commands. The safety features include:

• Autonomous emergency braking

• Lane change warning

• Lane departure warning

• Rear cross-traffic alert

• Semi-autonomous parking assist

• Surround-view camera and dash-cam

Volvo XC90 Hybrid

The Volvo XC90 is a luxury hybrid SUV that comes in three powertrain configurations to match your needs. The 7-seater SUV price starts from $92,990, including on-road costs. The new model received minor upgrades but with higher price tags.

The critical upgrade to the Volvo XC90 is the latest infotainment software. The car also features Android Automotive tech, Google Assistant, and Google Maps. Additionally, the vehicle is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a mild-hybrid system. Its safety features include:

• 360-degree camera

• Adaptive cruise control

• All parking sensors

• Autonomous emergency braking

• Blind-spot monitoring

• Lane centering

• Lane-keep assist

• Rear cross-traffic alert

• Traffic sign recognition

What Should I Look For In A Hybrid Vehicle?

When it comes to hybrid cars, you don't just walk into any car dealership and examine them as if you are buying an internal-combustion engine vehicle. You have to go beyond the routine test of how stable or comfortable the car is on the road. Here are some of the things to look for:

• Check for the flexibility of the regenerative braking strength. Hybrid cars like Hyundai Ioniq have strength levels of between zero to three, which you can adjust depending on your needs.

• Does the car jolt you when you step on the brake pedal? Check for how naturally the pedals operate since the car is not supposed to jolt you when it shifts from regenerative to mechanical braking.

• The hybrid powertrain transition between the EV and hybrid modes should not be rough. Even if it is not very seamless, it should not be easily noticeable.

• Go through the Eco gauges and menus to learn how to maximise fuel efficiency when you drive. Does the hybrid car have an Eco-only setting? This increases the efficiency of the powertrain.

• Confirm that the battery does not eat into the cargo space too much. If you are looking to get a plug-in hybrid, this should be a crucial factor.

Where To Look For Your Hybrid Car

Now that you have a good idea of what hybrid cars are and some of the best hybrid cars available in Australia, your next move may be to get one that suits your taste and needs. You can start by checking online car buying and selling dealerships or car sales platforms to get a sense of the variety of hybrid cars available on the market.