Hybrid SUVs have truly come of age in Australia. No longer are they a niche option or seen as a compromise. In 2025, hybrid SUVs offer Aussie drivers a compelling combination of lower running costs, reduced environmental impact, modern driving dynamics, and family practicality. Whether you’re an urban commuter looking to cut down on fuel bills or an outback adventurer needing space and capability, there’s a hybrid SUV ready for your lifestyle.
The hybrid market in 2025 has grown significantly, with nearly every major manufacturer offering hybrid SUV options—some as full hybrids (HEVs), others as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). In this comprehensive guide, we break down the best hybrid SUVs in Australia this year, compare their specs, highlight their pros and cons, and help you find the right one for your budget and needs.
What Makes a Great Hybrid SUV in 2025?
Before diving into individual models, let’s outline the key criteria we’ve considered to determine the best hybrid SUVs in Australia for 2025:
- Fuel Efficiency: Combined L/100km or electric-only range for PHEVs
- Value for Money: Pricing versus features and real-world efficiency
- Interior Comfort & Space: Especially for families
- Safety Features & ANCAP Ratings: Must-have tech like AEB, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring
- Technology & Connectivity: Infotainment, connectivity, driver aids
- Practicality: Boot space, rear seat room, hybrid battery placement
- Warranty & After-Sales Support: Manufacturer support matters
Top 10 Best Hybrid SUVs in Australia 2025
1. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2025)
Price: From $42,260 drive-away
Fuel Economy: 4.7L/100km
ANCAP Safety Rating: 5 stars
Powertrain: 2.5L petrol with electric motor (HEV)
Why It’s Great:
The Toyota RAV4 remains the king of hybrid SUVs in Australia. The 2025 model gets refined tech, improved cabin materials, and standard Toyota Safety Sense across all trims. With its stellar fuel economy and bulletproof reliability, it’s a no-brainer for families and long-distance drivers alike.
Pros:
✔ Excellent fuel economy
✔ High resale value
✔ Loads of safety tech
Cons:
✖ Long wait times on some variants
✖ Not a plug-in hybrid
2. Kia Sportage Hybrid (2025)
Price: From $46,000 (estimated)
Fuel Economy: ~5.2L/100km
ANCAP Safety Rating: Likely 5 stars
Powertrain: 1.6L turbo petrol + electric motor (HEV)
Why It’s Great:
Finally available in hybrid form in Australia, the 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a feature-packed, tech-rich, midsize SUV. With bold design and an intuitive dual-screen cockpit, it's a stylish choice for younger buyers who still want efficiency.
Pros:
✔ Modern infotainment
✔ Competitive fuel economy
✔ 7-year warranty
Cons:
✖ Higher entry price
✖ PHEV option not yet confirmed
3. Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Price: From $56,490 drive-away
Fuel Economy: 1.5L/100km (combined)
EV Range: Up to 84km
ANCAP Rating: 5 stars
Powertrain: 2.4L petrol engine + dual motors (PHEV)
Why It’s Great:
If you want electric capability without full EV range anxiety, the Outlander PHEV delivers. It has real EV-only range for most commutes and retains traditional SUV space. Great for families who charge at home.
Pros:
✔ Long EV range
✔ Seven seats available
✔ Very quiet in EV mode
Cons:
✖ Expensive compared to HEVs
✖ Slower charging than a BEV
4. Honda CR-V e:HEV (Hybrid)
Price: From $53,000 (approx)
Fuel Economy: ~5.5L/100km
ANCAP Rating: Pending
Powertrain: 2.0L Atkinson-cycle + dual-motor hybrid
Why It’s Great:
Newly redesigned for 2025, the Honda CR-V hybrid is finally available in Australia. It blends smooth driving with smart packaging, making it an efficient, premium-feel midsize SUV.
Pros:
✔ Spacious interior
✔ Refined hybrid system
✔ Good tech integration
Cons:
✖ Pricey for the segment
✖ No PHEV option
5. Haval H6 Hybrid
Price: From $43,990 drive-away
Fuel Economy: 5.2L/100km
ANCAP Rating: 5 stars
Powertrain: 1.5L turbo petrol + electric motor (HEV)
Why It’s Great:
Haval’s value-packed H6 Hybrid offers impressive tech, a roomy cabin, and decent fuel savings at a great price point. A strong alternative to Japanese competitors.
Pros:
✔ Value for money
✔ Loaded with tech
✔ Comfortable ride
Cons:
✖ Smaller brand dealer network
✖ Less proven reliability
6. Lexus NX 350h
Price: From $63,400 + ORC
Fuel Economy: 5.0L/100km
ANCAP Rating: 5 stars
Powertrain: 2.5L HEV
Why It’s Great:
Luxury and efficiency in one package. The Lexus NX 350h uses the same hybrid system as the Toyota RAV4 but adds plush interior appointments, a smooth ride, and class-leading quietness.
Pros:
✔ Luxurious and quiet
✔ Advanced driver aids
✔ Outstanding build quality
Cons:
✖ Expensive for hybrid-only
✖ Smaller boot space
7. Subaru Forester Hybrid
Price: From $48,690 drive-away
Fuel Economy: 6.7L/100km
ANCAP Rating: 5 stars
Powertrain: 2.0L petrol + hybrid motor
Why It’s Great:
With symmetrical AWD and decent hybrid fuel savings, the Forester is ideal for those living regionally or taking weekend camping trips. It’s rugged yet safe.
Pros:
✔ Standard AWD
✔ Great visibility
✔ Practical interior
Cons:
✖ Modest EV support
✖ Less efficient than rivals
8. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (Coming in 2025)
Price: TBA (expected $45K+)
Fuel Economy: Estimated ~5.5L/100km
Powertrain: 1.6L turbo petrol hybrid (HEV)
Why It’s Great:
Expected to land in Australia mid-2025, the Tucson Hybrid will expand Hyundai’s hybrid SUV lineup and go head-to-head with the RAV4 and Sportage.
Pros:
✔ Strong hybrid system (shared with Kia)
✔ Advanced cabin tech
✔ Australian tuning
Cons:
✖ Availability might be limited
✖ No plug-in version
9. Mazda CX-90 PHEV
Price: From $85,000+
Fuel Economy: 2.5L/100km
EV Range: ~50km
Powertrain: 2.5L PHEV
Why It’s Great:
A large SUV with luxury appeal and plug-in hybrid power, the CX-90 is Mazda’s green flagship in 2025. Seven-seat family buyers wanting low emissions and upmarket feel will love it.
Pros:
✔ Refined design
✔ Strong PHEV drivetrain
✔ Premium finishes
Cons:
✖ High price
✖ EV-only range could be better
10. Ford Escape ST-Line PHEV
Price: From $53,440
Fuel Economy: 1.5L/100km
EV Range: 56km
Powertrain: 2.5L PHEV
Why It’s Great:
One of the first PHEVs in its class, the Escape PHEV is a smart, responsive drive with decent electric range. A practical family SUV with sporty looks.
Pros:
✔ EV mode suits daily use
✔ Nimble handling
✔ Attractive design
Cons:
✖ Small boot
✖ Supply chain delays
Hybrid vs Plug-In Hybrid – What’s Better for You in 2025?
| Feature | HEV (Hybrid) | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|
| Needs Charging? | No | Yes (home or public charger) |
| EV Range | Very limited (if any) | 40–90 km (real-world) |
| Fuel Efficiency | Good | Excellent if charged regularly |
| Purchase Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Ideal For | City & mixed driving | Daily short commutes with charging |
Choose a HEV if you want simplicity and low running costs, or a PHEV if you have home charging access and want to use EV mode most of the time.
Are Hybrid SUVs Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely. Here’s why:
- Lower Running Costs: Especially with today’s petrol prices, hybrids can cut your fuel bill dramatically.
- Government Incentives: Some states still offer rebates or rego discounts for hybrids.
- Future-Proofing: While EV infrastructure grows, hybrids provide an easy bridge.
- Low Emissions: A great step toward greener driving.
- Resale Value: Especially for Toyota and Kia models, hybrids hold their value well.
Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Buy?
If you want the best all-rounder, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid still leads the pack with reliability and value.
Need something premium? Check out the Lexus NX 350h or Mazda CX-90 PHEV.
On a tighter budget but want good tech? The Haval H6 Hybrid is a sleeper hit.
Want real EV driving but aren’t ready to ditch petrol? The Outlander PHEV is the top pick.
Whatever your budget or need, 2025 is the best year yet to go hybrid.
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