Buying a hybrid checklist

1. Your driving

• Your usual week's kilometres and how much is stop-start city driving: that's where a hybrid saves the most fuel.
• Plug-in hybrid? Where you'd charge it at home, and how much of your daily driving its electric range covers.
• The fuel it needs: some models need premium unleaded. Check the fuel flap or the owner's manual.
• How often you tow, take long trips or carry a full load: check the braked towing capacity.
• Run your numbers at evpick.com.au to see what it costs to run.

2. On the test drive

• Drive in traffic and on the highway: notice how smoothly the engine starts and stops.
• Plug-in hybrid? Try it on electric only, and see what range the car shows when charged.
• Check the boot with your actual gear: the battery can raise the floor or take the spare tyre's place.
• Test the driver-assist features and use the screen while parked.
• Check rear visibility and the reversing camera

3. Costs to compare

• The drive-away price in writing
• Real-world fuel use: owners often see more than the official figure, especially on the highway.
• Servicing costs and intervals: capped-price servicing, and whether it's yearly or by kilometres.
• Insurance quotes
• Plug-in hybrid? Home charging cost: a power point may be enough, or price a wall charger.
• Novated lease quote: plug-in hybrids lost the FBT exemption for new leases from 1 April 2025.

4. Warranty and the battery

• Hybrid battery warranty: years, kilometres and any conditions, like servicing on time.
• Who services it near you
• Roadside assistance
• Check for recalls at vehiclerecalls.gov.au.

5. Before you sign

• Confirm the exact variant and colour
• Delivery date and what happens if it's late
• Trade-in value in writing
• Plug-in hybrid? Which charging cable comes with it

Notes