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Outside of the main cities, drivers in New Zealand are treated to an experience like no other with beautiful vistas, pristine lakes, rolling farmland, and scenic coastal drives.
There can also be challenging mountainous conditions, winding roads, snow, and ice, so let’s look at some top-rated hybrid SUVs for adapting to the varied landscapes in this country.
Here are some of our best hybrid model SUV picks for driving in New Zealand:
1. GWM HAVAL H6
2. Ford Escape
3. Kia Sportage Hybrid
4. Hyundai Tucson
5. Toyota Rav4
6. Kia Niro
7. Lexus NX
1. GWM HAVAL H6
The progressive GWM HAVAL H6 is smart, safe, and stylish. Combining the best of European engineering and Asian technology, this SUV performed beautifully in urban areas and off-road.
Fuel economy is prioritised, resulting in an SUV that is better for the planet. Sophisticated and sporty, The GWM H6 is our top pick for New Zealand new car buyers. Powered by a 2.0L turbo petrol engine, the H6 delivers 179kW of combined power with fuel consumption of 5.2L/100km on the hybrid variant.
Features we appreciated include an easy-to-read 10.25” colour instrument cluster, multimedia touchscreen, blind spot monitoring, reversing camera, and lane keep assist.
GWM is so confident of the GWM HAVAL H6 capability that it comes with a five year warranty, five year roadside assistance, and a five star ANCAP safety rating.
2. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape PHEV continues the tradition of this iconic manufacturer. The Ford Escape is making genuine inroads into the hybrid vehicle market as a serious competitor to the Toyota RAV4 hybrid and Honda CR-V.
The Escape can cruise for up to 56km on battery power alone, producing zero emissions. We believe this SUV offers the best of both worlds for commuting around the city and taking in the scenery on longer journeys. The total charge time (240V) is just over three hours - not bad for a small SUV with high-tech features and versatile performance. The Ford Escape Hybrid SUV is definitely worth a test drive.
3. Kia Sportage Hybrid
This hybrid SUV delivers 227 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque, and economical miles-per-gallon (MPG), but there is so much more to explore.
Big families are sure to appreciate the spacious second row legroom and cargo space, while the driver can remain focussed using the 12.3’’ dual panoramic displays with navigation, Kia Connect, and SiriusXM® radio.
Additional interior comforts we appreciate in NZ conditions include the heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, remote start, and climate control. The Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige comes with a powerful turbo hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive for those who want to see the best of New Zealand.
4. Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai SUVs are improving with every new model, and the latest Hyundai Tucson is turning heads all around New Zealand.
We love the cutting-edge design, styling, safety features, and user-friendly technology. As soon as we stepped inside, the Tucson felt open and roomy, perfect for taller people. This SUV quickly captivates the attention with premium high-tech features such as the innovative multi-air mode system for gentle air conditioning diffusing. The Tucson is the latest in Hyundai design.
5. Toyota Rav4
A guaranteed entry on any worthy hybrid SUV list, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the perfect match for adventurous Kiwi car owners.
We like the specs, including 131kW at 5700rpm maximum power and 221Nm at 3600-5200rpm torque. With comfy seating for five and 1,500kg braked towing capacity, the Toyota RAV4 hybrid version is shaping the New Zealand driving landscape.
Hit the high country with all-wheel drive (AWD) performance, electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, and impressive fuel economy. Highly recommended.
6. Kia Niro
Another Kia model deserving a shout-out is the all-new Kia Niro. This hybrid SUV has streamlined rugged appeal, plus an impressive electric range courtesy of the innovative battery pack and responsive six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
We felt in tune with the car as it delivered responsive torque and smooth acceleration. The curved high-definition dashboard display is easy on the eye and can be conveniently managed with touch commands for personalising the driver experience.
The Niro PHEV felt good on winding roads and had plenty of power on the open highway. The Niro plug-in Hybrid is quiet, comfortable, and always responsive, even at highway speeds.
7. Lexus NX
The NX 450h+, the plug-in hybrid version of the NX SUV, is very comfortable, exceptionally fuel-efficient, and loaded with the latest technology.
Its 37 miles of all-electric range also means you will save quite a bit at the pump. The Lexus NX has a 2.5L hybrid electric engine, 179kW total system output, and fuel consumption of 5.5 L/100km.
We like the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission that offers a smooth, quiet ride on even the most challenging New Zealand roads.
What makes hybrid SUVs special?
New car buyers are choosing SUVs for lots of reasons. Fuel efficiency is obviously a major consideration, as is the convenient interior cargo space and high driving position that offers better all-around visibility. The best hybrid SUVs have all-wheel drive and 4WD options, plus powertrain efficiency like no other.
Long-term savings with a hybrid SUV
The upfront cost of a hybrid SUV is offset in the long run with ongoing savings. Hybrid cars get more range out of a tank and offer improved economic drivetrain performance by switching from electric to petrol power according to the road and traffic conditions. A hybrid system SUV will reduce your carbon footprint, with fewer CO2 emissions. Hybrid SUVs are a win-win for Kiwi drivers.
Some honourable electric car inclusions to this list of premium SUVs include the BMW X5, Ford Explorer, Lexus RX, Toyota Highlander hybrid, Toyota Venza compact crossover SUV, Volvo XC90, Mitsubishi Outlander, plus Mazda, Jeep, Range Rover, and Subaru SUV models.
