With wait times of upwards of nine months, the Hyundai Kona Hybrid is maybe one of the vital in-demand electrified small SUVs in Australia right away.
The brand new-generation Kona Hybrid has been lauded for its efficient electrified powertrain, which is a component of the rationale why there’s such a protracted queue to get one – together with its price tag of $36,000 to $46,500 before on-road costs.
In the event you’ve got itchy feet and may’t wait that long, there are a number of alternatives in Australia at around the identical price and size.
Listed below are the CarExpert team’s picks on what you must consider buying when you don’t wish to hold out for a Hyundai Kona Hybrid.
James Wong: Kia Niro HEV ($44,930 to $50,580 before on-road costs)
In the event you’re set on a Kona Hybrid (HEV) but can’t wait for a brand new one, then the Kia Niro Hybrid is effectively the identical automotive from one other showroom.
Compact Toyota hybrids are likewise in hot demand, and Kia’s boxy electrified crossover tends to be missed – largely on account of its premium RRP positioning.
The Niro could also be just a little dearer, but shop around and you would possibly end up a deal. It offers similar levels of space and tech to the Kona in GT-Line trim, and arguably has more premium finishes.
My essential gripe in regards to the Kia, nonetheless, is the lofty service costs. Otherwise, it’s a cool and efficient crossover that’s well sized for city use and capable on the open road.
Jordan Mulach: Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid ($36,480 to $50,030 before on-road costs)
In each size and capability, considered one of the Hyundai’s rivals needs to be the Corolla Cross, given the best-selling RAV4 is barely too large for a direct comparison.
Hyundai has well and truly closed the gap to Toyota when it comes to how efficient its hybrid systems will be, reflected within the fuel consumption claims between the Kona and Corolla Cross hybrids that are split by just tenths of a litre per 100km.
While Toyota’s cabins can sometimes feel a bit outdated, the Corolla Cross is considered one of its newest models on sale, and offers features to rival the Hyundai in its flagship Atmos AWD guise.
Perhaps one thing to think about is that this grade slots between the RAV4 Cruiser AWD Hybrid and Edge AWD Hybrid in price, which each offer extra space.
Scott Collie: Honda ZR-V e:HEV ($54,900 drive-away)
Australians have an attachment to the Honda HR-V, and the CR-V. But what in regards to the ZR-V?
This in-between SUV is neither as small because the four-seat HR-V, nor as chunky because the CR-V. As a substitute, it’s aimed toward filling the Goldilocks zone in between.
With ample interior space, it’s still a practical option for small families. However it’s not difficult to park in tight spaces, and drives even higher than the already nimble CR-V.
Throw in a punchy, efficient hybrid drivetrain that’s more fun than what Toyota, Hyundai, or Kia has to supply, and also you’re onto a winner.
William Stopford: Honda HR-V ($43,900 drive-away)
Taking a look at rivals to the Kona Hybrid, I’m reminded just how compelling a package the Hyundai is.
Toyota’s C-HR has similarly funky styling to the Kona but can also be quite a bit dearer, while the Nissan Qashqai e-Power is unfortunately available only in top-spec Ti trim.
The smart money is on the Toyota Corolla Cross, but I’d suggest trying out the Honda HR-V as well.
It’s frustrating that it has only 4 seats, because otherwise that is one sweetly packaged vehicle – spacious and versatile, yet with a small exterior footprint. The hybrid powertrain can also be nice, though it does feel just a little out of breath on steeper grades.
Max Davies: Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid ($36,480 to $50,030 before on-road costs)
At just about the identical price point, the Toyota is certainly value a glance as a Kona alternative.
It has more power (albeit a rather worse claimed fuel efficiency), a spacious interior, solid driving dynamics, smooth acceleration, and a way of familiarity which means you’ll know what to anticipate whenever you get in – even whether it is a hybrid.
The Corolla Cross’ improved GXL variant still matches the higher-spec N-Line hybrid for price, but unlike Hyundai, Toyota does offer an all-wheel drive hybrid in case it’s essential do a spot of sunshine off-roading. All for lower than $45,000 before on-roads, too.
This Article First Appeared At www.carexpert.com.au
