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Toyota Australia was one of the first brands with a petrol-electric model more than two decades ago in the form of the Prius, but its dominance in the hybrid space might soon come under threat from fresh competition.
Many people still have lingering doubts about the safety of Chinese cars partly as a result of the hangover of some pretty terrible early crash test results in the early 2000s and even some more recent results like the MG 5 gaining a 0 rating in the Australian ANCAP test. However, results just out of a study by Compare the Market Australia rank the BYD Seal and Dolphin as the safest cars available globally with the Seal taking first place and the Dolphin taking second.
The current Kia Sportage has proven itself to be one of the most compelling options in its class and the Australian range has just grown with the addition of the new hybrid variant, known as the HEV.Powering the Sportage HEV is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 132 kW (177 hp) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. This engine works alongside an electric motor with 44 kW (59 hp) and 264 Nm (195 lb-ft), resulting in a combined 169 kW (227 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft).
The 2024 Kia EV5 has been spotted testing in Australia ahead of first showroom arrivals due from the middle of this year.
It is currently limited to Hyundai’s domestic market with no export plans for the Staria Hybrid confirmed at this stage.
The most anticipated month for dealerships is right around the corner as drivers get ready to trade in their keys for a new ride. If you’re not sure what is hot on the market, Hippo Leasing released new data showing the most searched for vehicles in the U.S. and U.K.
BYD introduced three models to the UK market in its first year, and isn’t looking to let off any time soon. The brand has presented the European-ready BYD Seal U at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show, before order books open in the next few months.
Kia Australia has announced pricing for the two-variant Sportage Hybrid line-up, which will start from $45,590 before on-road costs – or around $50,000 drive-away – for the SX variant.