What is the cheapest hybrid car?
South Africans are warming up to the idea of full-electric vehicles but since they're still quite pricey, the next best thing, ie. hybrid cars, will have to do. At least hybrids are becoming more affordable, as big names like Toyota are all making the move towards greener motoring, and our list contains no hybrid vehicle over R600 000. Check out our list of SA's most affordable hybrid cars of 2021.
1. Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XS, R413 000
The highly-anticipated Corolla Cross launched in November 2021, and media were smitten with the two hybrid models in the line-up. If you need a family-friendly crossover, the affordable (for a hybrid!) Corolla Cross makes plenty of sense.
Watch: Toyota Corolla Cross - Pre-launch hybrid test drive video
2. Toyota Corolla 1.8 Hybrid XS sedan, R419 900
After spending a week with this super spacious, frugal, practical sedan, Martin was reluctant to hand the keys back. The Corolla sedan in hybrid guise is highly underrated and deserves your attention, especially if you need a car with a massive boot.
Read: Toyota Corolla Hybrid review: A real-world economy champion
3. Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XR, R448 300
The XR model has a few more bells and whistles but is still well-priced. We love the blue accents that set it apart from the entry-level hybrid model.
Read: Which Toyota Corolla Cross is better - petrol or hybrid?
4. Honda Fit Hybrid, R484 000
The Honda Jazz, which is now the Honda Fit, had a hybrid in the line-up which is now available once again as the Honda Fit Hybrid, equipped with Honda's 1.5-litre MMD e-CVT hybrid system.
With features like collision mitigation Braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and automatic high-beam headlamps, its rather steep price is almost justified. It's as practical as always, thanks to Honda's Magic Seat system.
Read our Honda Fit first drive impression here.
5. Toyota RAV4 2.5 Hybrid GX, R555 300
One of the best cars for families in SA, the RAV4 hybrid will delight you and everyone on board, not to mention how you'll be smiling at the petrol pumps (which you won't be visiting all that often).
Read: Which Toyota RAV4 is better - petrol or hybrid?
6. Toyota Prius Hybrid, R577 800
The 2021 Prius looks more enticing than ever, but will local buyers take the bait? Well, the Corolla sedan hybrid is decidedly more affordable, but it's more trendy to drive a Prius, just as celebs like Cameron Diaz, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jessica Alba do.
Read: New vs. used Prius, what are the top 3 differences?
Buying used? Check out our list of the most affordable hybrid cars of 2019, here.
