If you’re thinking about buying a hybrid car for your next vehicle, what choices do you have? Canstar examines the top hybrid cars in New Zealand.
For those who aren’t ready to fully switch to electric vehicles like EVs or BEVs (battery electric vehicles), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) offer a good compromise.
PHEVs provide excellent fuel efficiency and lower emissions, while still offering the convenience of quick refueling and longer range similar to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This article highlights the most popular PHEV cars available in New Zealand:
Top-selling PHEVs in New Zealand
It is worth mentioning that this year, sales of PHEVs and EVs have significantly decreased. In December 2022, there was a surge in EV sales before the Clean Car Discount deadline, with 3361 EVs sold, compared to only 2212 in the first half of the year. Similarly, PHEV sales were at 986 in December 2023 and 1177 for the whole year.
On the other hand, sales of petrol hybrid cars, which do not require charging and are exempt from Road User Charges, have remained steady. They have averaged around 2235 new cars per month this year, totaling 13,408, compared to an average of 2445 in 2023.
Here is a list of the most popular PHEVs in New Zealand in 2023. Prices listed are exclusive of on-road expenses and should be used as a reference only.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross – from $52,990
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was the top-selling PHEV of 2023 by a significant amount. Its main competition came from the Outlander, another model from the same brand. The Eclipse Cross is equipped with typical modern SUV features like advanced driver assistance systems such as forward collision warning and pedestrian detection alerts. Additionally, it is available in a 4WD version for those who want to fully utilize its SUV capabilities. The Eclipse Cross PHEV provides an electric range of up to 55km and can be fast-charged in just 25 minutes.
Alt: Girl talking on the phone near the car
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV– from $62,990
The Mitsubishi Outlander ranked second on the list of best-selling cars in 2023. Therefore, it’s not surprising that the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is also a popular choice among plug-in hybrid vehicles. The Outlander is ideal for those seeking more than what the Eclipse Cross offers, whether it’s more space, power, or electric range (84km EV range compared to 55km). Similar to the Eclipse Cross, the Outlander PHEV includes modern amenities, safety features, 4WD, a 25-minute fast charging option, and the trusted Mitsubishi brand name.
Kia Sorento PHEV – from $79,990
The Kias Sorento is a large seven-seater vehicle available in various models, including petrol, diesel, petrol-electric hybrids, and two plug-in hybrids: the AWD EX and the AWD Premium. Both versions are equipped with a 1.6L T-GDi Turbo petrol engine, but due to their plug-in hybrid technology, they achieve an impressive fuel efficiency of 1 liter per 100 kilometers. When operating in electric mode, these vehicles can travel up to 57 kilometers on a single charge. Additionally, they are packed with luxurious amenities and advanced safety features typically found in high-end vehicles due to their premium pricing.
Ford Escape PHEV – from $68,990
The Escape PHEV marks Ford’s debut in the plug-in hybrid SUV market. With a 56km electric range and an impressive fuel efficiency of 1.6L/100km, this vehicle is a great choice for eco-conscious drivers. Additionally, there is an upgraded ST-Line X version available starting at $68,990, which includes advanced technology features, luxurious amenities, and sporty design elements.
MG HS PHEV – from $50,990
The MG ZS PHEV is among the most affordable plug-in hybrid cars available and is highly sought after. It is offered in two versions: Excite and Essence. While both have the same engine, the Essence includes additional safety features and luxurious details like 360° cameras, a sunroof, heated mirrors, and leather seats. Safety is a top priority for both models, with MG Pilot offering various safety features such as forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, and lane change assist. The MG HS Plus EV also impresses with a remarkable 63km range on electric power alone.
KIA NIRO PHEV – $55,690-$69,690
Niro is Kia’s medium-sized SUV that is only available in electrified versions. The Korean manufacturer offers a petrol-electric hybrid without a plug, an all-electric BEV, and the PHEV model discussed here.
The latest version of the Niro has been significantly updated and redesigned. It shares the same 1.6-liter petrol engine with the hybrid model but now comes with an 11kWh plug-in battery that allows for an estimated 59km electric-only range. The powertrain consists of a 1.6-liter petrol four-cylinder engine paired with an 11kWh battery, delivering a total power output of 134kW/265Nm (combined) and an electric range of 58km.
VOLKSWAGEN MULTIVAN T7 – $78,800-$106,000
Volkswagen’s Transporter series is now branching out into different model lines, with the new Multivan T7 specifically designed as a passenger vehicle. It shares the same MBQ platform as the Golf and Skoda Octavia.
The Multivan T7’s PHEV powertrain is borrowed from the Skoda Octavia iV, featuring a 1.4-liter petrol engine paired with a 13kWh battery for an electric range of 50km. Volkswagen New Zealand put effort into pricing the base Multivan below $80k to qualify for the $5750 Clean Car Discount. Additionally, there are mid-range Life and limited-edition flagship Energetic versions available, with the latter boasting a stylish two-tone paint job. The powertrain consists of a 1.4-liter turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine with a 14kWh battery, offering AWD and a combined power output of 160kW/350Nm, along with an electric range of 50km.
Alt: Girl charging car
VOLVO XC90 RECHARGE – $149,900
The XC90 was the first to introduce Volvo’s Twin Engine PHEV technology and is continuously improving. The XC90 Recharge offers a luxurious seven-seat family SUV with plug-in hybrid power. The front wheels are powered by the petrol engine, while the electric motor drives the back wheels, allowing for FWD, RWD (in EV mode), or AWD operation. An update has recently increased the battery capacity, resulting in a 77km electric range. The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 19kWh battery, providing a total output of 233kW/400Nm (engine) and 107kW/400Nm (electric). The SUV can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds.
JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE SUMMIT RESERVE 4xe – $154,990
Jeep’s popular SUV, the Grand Cherokee, has finally been introduced in New Zealand with a 4xe PHEV version. This plug-in hybrid powertrain is only offered in the five-seat model and specifically in the top-of-the-line Summit Reserve trim, not in the seven-seat variant that was initially launched with the latest generation.
While it belongs to the same 4xe PHEV family as the Renegade and Compass, the Grand Cherokee features a unique electric drive system. Instead of a separate electric motor for the rear axle, it is integrated into the transmission. This setup provides a more traditional driving feel and enhances the vehicle’s off-road capabilities, whether it is running on electric power or not. The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine paired with a 17kWh battery, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. It delivers a total output of 280kW and 637Nm of torque, with an electric range of 52km (AER).
LAND ROVER DEFENDER P400e – $156,900
Yes, even the Land Rover’s highly practical 4×4 champion is now available with PHEV power. Similar to many plug-in models from Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), it combines a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine with an electric battery pack and offers DC fast-charging capability. This technology can also be found in the Range Rover Velar and Jaguar F-Pace.
Land Rover ensures that its PHEVs are just as capable off-road as their traditional counterparts and they offer impressive speed. The P400e model closely resembles any other Defender, but there are a few compromises with the electric power option: the P400e is not available as a short-wheelbase 90, lacks third-row seating space, and has a reduced towing capacity of 500kg compared to conventional models. However, it can still tow an impressive 3000kg. The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter petrol engine paired with a 15kWh battery, delivering a combined output of 297kW/640Nm. The EV range is 44km, and it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds.
PORSCHE CAYENNE E-HYBRID – $182,500-187,200
Although the latest Porsche Cayenne facelift may not appear drastically different, it represents a significant technological advancement compared to the previous model. The update includes major changes to the chassis and introduces a new Porsche Driver Experience cabin inspired by the Taycan, featuring a combination of digital and analog controls.
The E-Hybrid PHEV has been upgraded with a new V6 engine, a more powerful electric motor, and a larger battery, resulting in an increased maximum EV range of 90km. This plug-in hybrid powertrain is offered in both SUV and coupe models, with the possibility of even higher-performance variants in line with Porsche’s tradition. The powertrain consists of a 3.0-liter turbo-petrol V6 paired with a 26kWh battery, delivering a total output of 346kW/650Nm (combined) and an EV range of 90km.
MERCEDES-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE – $199,900
Farewell V8, welcome impressive hybrid power in the Mercedes-AMG C 63. The new 2.0-liter engine, handcrafted, matches the previous eight-cylinder in power, but with the addition of a plug-in hybrid system, it surpasses it.
The battery is small, providing only a 15km electric range. Its purpose is to deliver maximum power rather than turning this AMG into an eco-friendly commuter (although it can serve that function to some extent). You won’t have to worry much about charging it frequently, as the turbo engine efficiently recharges the battery when needed. Powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 26kWh battery, all-wheel drive. It generates 500kW/1020Nm of combined power and has an electric range of 15km, accelerating from 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds.
Alt: The girl takes things out of the car
RANGE ROVER SPORT P440e/P510e – $214,900-$244,900
The new Range Rover Sport, which is smaller than the full-sized Range Rover, has now incorporated electric power more extensively than ever before. The Range Rover Sport PHEV is available in New Zealand with a choice of two hybrid powertrains, both featuring Land Rover’s Ingenium six-cylinder petrol engine. Similar to its larger counterpart, both options come with a substantial 32kWh battery, providing an estimated 88km of real-world driving or an official 113km range according to Land Rover. DC fast charging comes as standard. The powertrain consists of a 3.0-liter turbo-petrol six engine paired with the 32kWh battery and all-wheel drive, delivering either 324kW/620Nm or 375kW/700Nm (combined) of power. The electric vehicle range is 113km, and acceleration from 0-100km/h takes between 5.5-5.2 seconds.
PORSCHE PANAMERA E-HYBRID – $234,700-$392,400
Porsche’s high-end five-seater has always been a supporter of hybrid and plug-in technology. In the current lineup, there are 4 and 4S models available in sedan or Sport Turismo (wagon) versions.
It’s not just about fuel efficiency. The E-Hybrid series includes the powerful Turbo S model, which can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 315km/h. However, it’s worth noting that the latest Panamera is slightly behind the recently updated Cayenne (both share a platform). If you’re considering the V6 option, it might be wise to explore the Cayenne first. The powertrain options include a 2.9-liter turbo-petrol V6 or a 4.0-liter turbo-petrol V8 with a 14kWh battery, all-wheel drive, and power outputs ranging from 340kW/700Nm to 515kW/870Nm (combined). The electric range is between 53-56km.
RANGE ROVER P510e – $274,900-$364,900
The brand-new fifth-generation Range Rover is introducing innovative features, such as incorporating electric power into its powertrain options for the first time. This is being done across various models including short and long-wheelbase versions like HSE, Autobiography, and SV.
The new plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a six-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine with a large 38.2kWh battery, providing an estimated electric range of 100km or 80km in real-world conditions. This range is sufficient to cover 75% of all typical Range Rover journeys, based on data from the previous model. To provide a comparison, the Mini Electric has a 35kWh battery despite being a fully electric vehicle. Additionally, the PHEV battery is compatible with DC charging. The powertrain consists of a 3.0-liter turbo-petrol six engine paired with a 38kWh battery, delivering a total output of 375kW/700Nm (combined) and an electric range of 100km.
Hybrid options: petrol hybrid vs plug-in hybrid
Petrol hybrid (FHEV/HEV)
Petrol hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius which was the first hybrid car to be mass-produced, have a battery that gets charged while driving instead of using an external power supply. The electric motor in these cars is mainly used for city driving with frequent stops and starts, while the petrol engine handles more demanding tasks. Due to the petrol hybrid’s dependence on its traditional engine, the amount of fuel saved is restricted.
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
A plug-in hybrid vehicle is equipped with a sizable battery and a strong electric motor that work together to enable extended driving at high speeds, covering distances ranging from approximately 40km to 80km, depending on the specific model. Similar to fully electric cars, plug-in hybrids require charging by plugging them in.
For everyday urban driving and short trips, plug-in hybrids provide an eco-friendly driving experience without using gasoline, while also offering the convenience of a petrol engine for longer journeys.
Mild-hybrid (MHEV)
Mild hybrid electric vehicles are not as popular as plug-in or petrol hybrids. They combine a battery-powered electric motor with a traditional petrol engine to enhance fuel efficiency. These vehicles utilize regenerative braking to recharge their batteries while in operation, but they do not rely on an external power supply and cannot operate solely on electric power.
Final Thoughts
Despite a decrease in PHEV and EV sales, petrol hybrid cars have remained steady in the market. Each model offers unique features, impressive electric ranges, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology, catering to different preferences and needs of consumers. Whether it’s luxury SUVs, family-friendly options, or off-road capabilities, there is a diverse range of PHEVs to choose from in the New Zealand market. Overall, PHEVs provide an excellent balance between fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and the convenience of both electric and petrol-powered driving experiences, making them a compelling choice for environmentally conscious drivers looking for versatility in their vehicles.
