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The 10 cheapest hybrids in Australia
Want to save money at the dealership and the pump? These are the 10 cheapest hybrids you can buy in Australia.
Josh Nevett
About the Honda HR-V
Last updated Dec 18, 2024The 2025 Honda HR-V e:HEV hybrid has become more affordable in Australia. Having launched in October 2024, the updated HR-V range now includes a new e:HEV X variant, priced at $39,900 drive-away—$3000 less than the e:HEV L model. The base Vi X model, powered by a petrol engine, has its promotional pricing made permanent, starting at $34,900 drive-away. The updated e:HEV L model is now $1000 cheaper than the previous runout pricing.
The refreshed HR-V features a redesigned grille with a more squared-off appearance and an updated full-width LED lighting assembly at the rear. Hybrid models come equipped with adaptive LED headlights.
Inside, the centre console has been revised with an extended upper tray to accommodate larger smartphones, and both USB-A and USB-C outlets are available at the front.
Honda has enhanced cabin quietness with additional soundproofing. Mechanically, the power steering has been refined for improved high-speed stability and more predictable handling. The e:HEV models also benefit from revised suspension tuning for enhanced ride comfort and control.
Hybrid variants now feature refined Power Control Unit (PCU) software, which improves the transition between electric and hybrid modes, enhancing EV throttle response. Honda has also adjusted the PCU software to minimise sudden RPM increases from the petrol engine in hybrid mode, further improving refinement.
The HR-V's suite of safety features has been expanded to include Traffic Jam Assist and low-speed braking control.
Pros
- Impressive refinement
- Magic Seats bring real practicality gains
- Spacious, attractive cabin
Cons
- Lack of a centre rear seatbelt is a copout
- No spare wheel
- Not the cheapest small hybrid SUV
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2024 Honda HR-V Dimensions
1590mm
1790mm
4335mm
The dimensions shown above are for the base model.
See all 2024 Honda HR-V Dimensions2025 Honda HR-V Boot Space
Rear seats position | Size |
|---|---|
Rear seats up | 304L |
Rear seats folded | 956L (measured to window) |
rear seats folded, measured to roof | 1274L (rear seats folded, measured to roof) |
2025 Honda HR-V Gallery
CarExpert High Resolution Photos of the Honda HR-V
2025 Honda HR-V Interior
The Honda HR-V may not feel as premium inside as its larger sibling, the ZR-V, but it still manages to avoid a bargain-basement impression. Its interior features a simple and elegant dashboard design, complemented by some refined touches. The climate controls, similar to those in the ZR-V, feature beautifully knurled dials that light up in red or blue when adjusting the temperature.
The instrument cluster seamlessly integrates analogue and digital elements, offering a sophisticated look. It retains Honda's signature chunky warning lights but with a more refined execution than past models. It also includes turn-by-turn navigation instructions from smartphone mirroring.
Leatherette padding on the sides of the centre console adds a touch of luxury, though the dashboard and rear doors feature hard plastics. However, these materials are well-finished with attractive graining and are carefully assembled, avoiding the cheap, scratchy feel seen in other affordable SUVs. One notable drawback is the centre of the dash, which flexes slightly when pressed, though this is unlikely to be a frequent concern.
While the HR-V lacks the distinctive honeycomb mesh trim found in other Honda models like the Civic, it does incorporate slim metal-look elements on the dash and doors for contrast. Upholstered in black fabric with leatherette bolsters, the seats feature a stylish diamond pattern and speckled effect, adding visual interest and avoiding a bland or overly sombre appearance. Despite the absence of leather, the seats are comfortable and visually appealing.
The driver’s seat, however, may feel a bit high for some, with limited adjustment options and no power adjustments available. The front seats are heated and warm up quickly, and the vehicle remembers heated seat settings upon restart.
Due to compliance issues with Australian Design Rules, the HR-V is officially a four-seater, as the rear centre seatbelt did not meet regulations. While specific rules can be frustrating for manufacturers, offering a four-seater in a competitive segment is disappointing and inconvenient for those needing to carry five passengers.
The HR-V’s rear seats offer generous space, with ample headroom, legroom, and a mostly flat floor. Although seating three across may not be as comfortable as in larger vehicles, the rear also includes two USB outlets, a small storage cubby, and a fold-down armrest.
The HR-V’s load-carrying capability is impressive for its size. The boot offers 304 litres of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 956 litres when the seats are folded flat, thanks to Honda’s Magic Seats, which slide forward for a completely flat load bay. This expands further to 1274 litres when measured to the roof. Under the boot floor, a storage compartment is provided, though only a tyre repair kit is included rather than a spare wheel.
The Honda HR-V delivers a well-rounded package with a practical and thoughtfully designed interior despite some minor drawbacks.
2025 Honda HR-V Infotainment
The infotainment system shares a similar user interface style with older Honda models but appears sharper and more responsive. A minor lag was noted with Android Auto, though overall performance remains satisfactory. The reversing camera provides average clarity, falling short of competitors like the GWM Haval Jolion, with footage appearing almost monochrome at night.
Clever features include air-conditioning that adjusts when voice prompts are used and uniquely designed air vents with tactile knobs allowing air to be directed ahead or split into multiple directions. This thoughtful design touch adds to the HR-V’s appeal.
2025 Honda HR-V Fuel Economy
Cost of ownership
What is the running and servicing costs of a Honda HR-V?
The Honda HR-V is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, five years of roadside assist, and is offered with five years of capped-price servicing.
Honda hasn’t announced any changes to service pricing, which suggests each service will continue to be capped at $199. Servicing is required every 12 months or 10,000km, whichever comes first.
How does the 2025 Honda HR-V drive?
Our expert take on Honda HR-V drivability.
Starting the HR-V reveals a brief grumbling sound from its hybrid powertrain, reminiscent of an overheated refrigerator. This noise quickly subsides, and at low speeds, the car runs quietly on electric power, creating a serene cabin environment. When the accelerator is pressed further, the distinctive sound of Honda's four-cylinder engine becomes apparent.
The engine delivers a pleasant note, paired with a transmission that simulates gear ratios, unlike conventional CVTs and e-CVTs, thereby avoiding the typical droning or rev-flaring sensations. The HR-V feels punchy and responsive around town, with the petrol engine and electric motors working harmoniously together.
However, the HR-V can feel somewhat underpowered in hillier terrain, especially on steeper grades. Even when pushed hard, the HR-V remains relatively quiet, thanks to effective noise suppression for the class. Wind noise is minimal at highway speeds, with only some tyre roar present, which is standard for this segment.
The ride quality is refined, effectively absorbing impacts from road imperfections like expansion joints, resulting in a comfortable driving experience. Despite having a torsion beam rear suspension, the HR-V remains composed chiefly, even on unsealed roads, though it may occasionally feel slightly unsettled.
While it doesn't handle quite as car-like as the larger ZR-V and exhibits some body roll in corners, the HR-V is still competitive within its segment. The steering offers a good amount of feedback, though the brake pedal lacks the same level of feel.
The HR-V has two different lane support systems, operating at between 72km/h and 180km/h. One system, activated by pressing a button on the steering wheel, provides more active intervention to keep the vehicle within its lane. This system performs better than the equivalent in the ZR-V, while the standard lane-keep assist is well-tuned and unobtrusive.
Including active cornering lights enhances visibility when turning or navigating winding roads, and the vehicle conveniently remembers the auto hold setting if activated. As with many hybrids, the HR-V features an energy flow meter that displays whether the petrol engine or electric motors are currently in operation.