Honda plans to release more budget-friendly hybrids in Australia

In today's fast-changing world, technological advancements play a crucial role in our efforts to achieve financial savings and promote environmental sustainability.



So in the spirit of savings and sustainability, we're thrilled to bring you some refreshing news—it's all about the rise of hybrid cars!

But wait, what's a hybrid car? The concept of hybrid vehicles revolves around their dual nature, as they draw from both conventional and electric power sources.


compressed-civic.jpeg
The Civic e:HEV offers a dynamic and self-charging full hybrid hatchback experience. This electrified vehicle perfectly complements the Civic's impressive design and advanced technology, providing an exhilarating driving experience. Source: Honda



Over the past century, this technology has evolved, flaunting greater efficiency, enhanced performance and reduced emissions.

Hybrids harness both a traditional combustion engine and an electric motor. This makes them incredibly fuel-efficient while drastically reducing harmful emissions—great for your wallet and the environment.



Now, let's talk about the latest exciting news! Honda Australia is waving its green flag to bring more affordable petrol-electric hybrid vehicles to our shores.

Carolyn McMahon, Director of Honda Australia, said that the brand is enthusiastic about introducing more affordable hybrid options to its lineup.

However, the strategy entails initially launching a highly-specified e:HEV hybrid variant, followed by the introduction of additional petrol-electric variants.


compressed-hr-v.jpeg
The Honda HR-V has an innovative e:HEV powertrain. This hybrid vehicle offers a clever and distinctive approach to delivering invigorating performance. Source: Honda



'So, we started the expansion of hybrids from Civic Hybrid and then HR-V, and now ZR-V. And our hybrid strategy is all about introducing hybrid with each new full model launch.’ she explained.



She went on to add, ‘Once we’ve done that, then the next step is then to introduce more variants within each model—so with Honda ZR-V, and of course then with CR-V, there will be a hybrid top-grade spec in those models.'

Belinda Cusworth, the GM of Customer Experience for Honda Australia, has confirmed that the hybrid powertrain of the ZR-V model has generated notable interest.


compressed-zr-v.jpeg
The ZR-V full hybrid SUV is equipped with an innovative e:HEV powertrain, offering a seamless blend of power and efficiency. Source: Honda Global



Executives have shared that the numbers are showing promising results. When asked about the number of ZR-V orders placed so far, Cusworth mentioned that it is well over 1000.

As she puts it, ‘The hybrid has been really strong, too. It’s pretty significant, and we’re looking to grow that over the next three to five years. It’s part of our long-term strategy. We haven’t committed to the model variants at this point in time, but it’s more ensuring we’ve got the volume to meet demand.’



Here is an overview of the hybrid models currently offered by Honda:

  • Honda Civic e:HEV LX small hatchback – $55,000 drive-away
  • Honda HR-V e:HEV LX small SUV – $47,000 drive-away
  • Honda ZR-V e:HEV LX medium SUV – $54,900 drive-away
Key Takeaways
  • Honda Australia has announced plans to introduce more affordable petrol-electric hybrid variants of its models.
  • The brand confirmed that despite recently launching the new ZR-V midsize SUV with a high-priced flagship e:HEV LX hybrid model, it will continue to expand its hybrid lineup with a focus on affordability.
  • Honda Australia director, Carolyn McMahon, described the overall strategy as launching with a highly-specified e:HEV hybrid variant first and following up with additional petrol-electric variants.
  • Belinda Cusworth, GM customer experience for Honda Australia, revealed a significant interest in the hybrid version of the ZR-V model, anticipating growth over the next three to five years, illustrating the brand's long-term commitment to hybrid technology.

Honda is one of many brands looking to expand its hybrid presence in the Australian market.

In recent months, Kia Australia announced its intentions to introduce hybrid versions of its Sportage midsize SUV. Hyundai, its sibling company, also plans to launch several electrified versions of the Tucson medium SUV.

The emergence of more budget-friendly hybrids represents a leap forward in affordability and access for all Australians.



With these companies leading the way, we can't wait to see everybody cruising in their eco-friendly vehicles soon!

What are your thoughts on Honda's plan to release more budget-friendly hybrids in Australia? Do you believe the availability of affordable hybrid cars will encourage more people to choose eco-friendly transportation options? Share your opinions with us in the comments section below!
 
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This is good news. However they will need to sharpen their pencil to beat the opposition currently it is possible to buy a Mitsubishi ecipse cross PHEV (plug in hybrid) for a similar price but with a much better warranty 10 years,(i bought mine for $54400.00 they may have gone up since then 10 months later) also there is no mention of plug in charging we will wait and see. Plug in charging I believe is necessary even at todays inflated electricity prices its only 40% on the price of fuel and if you have solar it only the price of the feed in tariff you don't get. My running cost have dropped from approx $350/month to about $60/month and I'm doing the same kilometers. food for thought.
 
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This is good news. However they will need to sharpen their pencil to beat the opposition currently it is possible to buy a Mitsubishi ecipse cross PHEV (plug in hybrid) for a similar price but with a much better warranty 10 years,(i bought mine for $54400.00 they may have gone up since then 10 months later) also there is no mention of plug in charging we will wait and see. Plug in charging I believe is necessary even at todays inflated electricity prices its only 40% on the price of fuel and if you have solar it only the price of the feed in tariff you don't get. My running cost have dropped from approx $350/month to about $60/month and I'm doing the same kilometers. food for thought.
That's good. My neighbour has put a deposit on a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid with a 2 year wait!
 
I think the prices will need to become quite a lot cheaper before the average family can even consider buying one of these cars. With today’s cost of living most people will be hanging onto their older cars, especially if they own them. Until the fuel savings add up to the repayments on a loan to buy one of these cars, and charging points become much more available in country areas people won’t buy them. For people saving for a house the cost of these cars is a large chunk of house deposit money.
 
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We have a Toyota Yaris Cross. Hybrid (non-plug in).
It cost us around $31,000 at the time (less trade in). It has the same footprint as the little Yaris sedan. We got it because we needed more room to put mobility aids in. The Corolla Hybrid Hatch we traded wasn't quite right. That too was a good car.
Our Yaris only gets fuelled once every 5 weeks (occasionally 6), and, that's not a full tank. I keep a spread sheet and it says we are averaging $6 a week on fuel.
The thing about Hybrid or Electric driving, I found, was the smoother you drive, the more efficient the Hybrid system is. They don't like rev heads.
We did consider full electric, however, they are more expensive and it's not so easy to find charging stations if you are out and about.
I am not one to make recommendations, but, we haven't looked back since going Hybrid. Also, we have had nothing but exceptional after sales service.
 
We have a Toyota Yaris Cross. Hybrid (non-plug in).
It cost us around $31,000 at the time (less trade in). It has the same footprint as the little Yaris sedan. We got it because we needed more room to put mobility aids in. The Corolla Hybrid Hatch we traded wasn't quite right. That too was a good car.
Our Yaris only gets fuelled once every 5 weeks (occasionally 6), and, that's not a full tank. I keep a spread sheet and it says we are averaging $6 a week on fuel.
The thing about Hybrid or Electric driving, I found, was the smoother you drive, the more efficient the Hybrid system is. They don't like rev heads.
We did consider full electric, however, they are more expensive and it's not so easy to find charging stations if you are out and about.
I am not one to make recommendations, but, we haven't looked back since going Hybrid. Also, we have had nothing but exceptional after sales service.
What are they like to drive? I've heard that electric cars are like a lounge chair to drive.
 
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That's good. My neighbour has put a deposit on a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid with a 2 year wait!
Hi Penny get them to have a look at the Mitsubishi range in SA they are available on the showroom floor immediate delivery.
 
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In today's fast-changing world, technological advancements play a crucial role in our efforts to achieve financial savings and promote environmental sustainability.



So in the spirit of savings and sustainability, we're thrilled to bring you some refreshing news—it's all about the rise of hybrid cars!

But wait, what's a hybrid car? The concept of hybrid vehicles revolves around their dual nature, as they draw from both conventional and electric power sources.


View attachment 25276
The Civic e:HEV offers a dynamic and self-charging full hybrid hatchback experience. This electrified vehicle perfectly complements the Civic's impressive design and advanced technology, providing an exhilarating driving experience. Source: Honda



Over the past century, this technology has evolved, flaunting greater efficiency, enhanced performance and reduced emissions.

Hybrids harness both a traditional combustion engine and an electric motor. This makes them incredibly fuel-efficient while drastically reducing harmful emissions—great for your wallet and the environment.



Now, let's talk about the latest exciting news! Honda Australia is waving its green flag to bring more affordable petrol-electric hybrid vehicles to our shores.

Carolyn McMahon, Director of Honda Australia, said that the brand is enthusiastic about introducing more affordable hybrid options to its lineup.

However, the strategy entails initially launching a highly-specified e:HEV hybrid variant, followed by the introduction of additional petrol-electric variants.


View attachment 25277
The Honda HR-V has an innovative e:HEV powertrain. This hybrid vehicle offers a clever and distinctive approach to delivering invigorating performance. Source: Honda



'So, we started the expansion of hybrids from Civic Hybrid and then HR-V, and now ZR-V. And our hybrid strategy is all about introducing hybrid with each new full model launch.’ she explained.



She went on to add, ‘Once we’ve done that, then the next step is then to introduce more variants within each model—so with Honda ZR-V, and of course then with CR-V, there will be a hybrid top-grade spec in those models.'

Belinda Cusworth, the GM of Customer Experience for Honda Australia, has confirmed that the hybrid powertrain of the ZR-V model has generated notable interest.


View attachment 25278
The ZR-V full hybrid SUV is equipped with an innovative e:HEV powertrain, offering a seamless blend of power and efficiency. Source: Honda Global



Executives have shared that the numbers are showing promising results. When asked about the number of ZR-V orders placed so far, Cusworth mentioned that it is well over 1000.

As she puts it, ‘The hybrid has been really strong, too. It’s pretty significant, and we’re looking to grow that over the next three to five years. It’s part of our long-term strategy. We haven’t committed to the model variants at this point in time, but it’s more ensuring we’ve got the volume to meet demand.’



Here is an overview of the hybrid models currently offered by Honda:

  • Honda Civic e:HEV LX small hatchback – $55,000 drive-away
  • Honda HR-V e:HEV LX small SUV – $47,000 drive-away
  • Honda ZR-V e:HEV LX medium SUV – $54,900 drive-away
Key Takeaways

  • Honda Australia has announced plans to introduce more affordable petrol-electric hybrid variants of its models.
  • The brand confirmed that despite recently launching the new ZR-V midsize SUV with a high-priced flagship e:HEV LX hybrid model, it will continue to expand its hybrid lineup with a focus on affordability.
  • Honda Australia director, Carolyn McMahon, described the overall strategy as launching with a highly-specified e:HEV hybrid variant first and following up with additional petrol-electric variants.
  • Belinda Cusworth, GM customer experience for Honda Australia, revealed a significant interest in the hybrid version of the ZR-V model, anticipating growth over the next three to five years, illustrating the brand's long-term commitment to hybrid technology.

Honda is one of many brands looking to expand its hybrid presence in the Australian market.

In recent months, Kia Australia announced its intentions to introduce hybrid versions of its Sportage midsize SUV. Hyundai, its sibling company, also plans to launch several electrified versions of the Tucson medium SUV.

The emergence of more budget-friendly hybrids represents a leap forward in affordability and access for all Australians.



With these companies leading the way, we can't wait to see everybody cruising in their eco-friendly vehicles soon!

What are your thoughts on Honda's plan to release more budget-friendly hybrids in Australia? Do you believe the availability of affordable hybrid cars will encourage more people to choose eco-friendly transportation options? Share your opinions with us in the comments section below!
 

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