Chinese hybrids heading to SA: Can these 10 new contenders steal some of Toyota’s thunder?

Very few South Africans are ready to take the plunge with a fully electric vehicle, but the latest statistics show that sales of hybrid vehicles are booming.

According to Naamsa, sales of fully electric vehicles sank to just 276 units in the first quarter of 2025, down 16% from the same period in 2024, while sales of traditional hybrid vehicles rose by 14.8%, from 2587 units to 2970.

Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales grew by 71%, albeit off a very small base from 141 to 241 sales.

But will 2025 be the year that PHEVs rise to prominence?

Featuring larger batteries than conventional hybrids, these vehicles claim to offer the best of both worlds, typically offering fully electric coverage of between 50km and 100km, depending on the vehicle. And there are plenty of new entrants on the way to South Africa, as we’ll get to shortly.

But PHEVs tend to be on the pricey side, with BYD’s recently introduced Sealion 6 currently being the least expensive option at R639,900.

Toyota’s Corolla Cross, a conventional hybrid, dominates the new energy vehicle market by a wide margin, and that is largely due to its combination of affordability and practicality, with prices starting at R494,400. Toyota also sells a Rav4 hybrid, and numerous Lexus models.

The Corolla Cross is Mzansi’s most affordable hybrid vehicle at present, but that could change in the not-too-distant future, with a number of compact Chinese offerings heading our way.

MG3 and ZS Hybrids

With its sporty looks and compact dimensions, the MG3 hatchback will be a refreshing addition to the local market, and our sources indicate that it will be offered with hybrid power.

The newcomer promises feisty performance, with its combination of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor offering a total output of 155kW, while combined fuel consumption is a mere 4.3 litres per 100km .

Also pencilled in for South Africa is a hybrid version of the popular HS midsize SUV. Combining a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, customers can look forward to outputs of 165kW and 340Nm, as well as combined consumption of 5.5 l/100km.

While these two MG hybrids are believed to be “on the books” for South Africa, exact launch timing as well as pricing and local specifications have yet to be confirmed.

Chery Tiggo Cross HEV

Joining the petrol-powered Chery Tiggo Cross that was launched in South Africa in late 2024, the hybrid version is set to reach our shores in July.

Specifics have yet to be confirmed, but it is believed the new HEV model is powered by a normally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine that pairs with two electric motors. Claimed fuel consumption amounts to 5.4 l/100km.

Although it will command a premium over its ICE sibling, which is priced from R399,900 to R449,900, the Tiggo Cross HEV could still emerge as one of South Africa’s most affordable hybrid vehicles.

RISE OF THE PLUG-IN HYBRID

Jaecoo J7 SHS

You won’t have to wait long to get your hands on the new Jaecoo J7 SHS plug-in hybrid SUV, which is set to officially launch later this week.

According to Cars.co.za, the new PHEV model will be priced at R689,900, making it marginally more expensive than its BYD rival.

But the stats are certainly impressive, with a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine pairing up with a powerful hybrid system to deliver combined outputs of 255kW and 525Nm.

Thanks to its 18.3 kWh LFP battery, with DC charging capabilities, the J7 SHS can manage a claimed range of up to 90km between charges.

Haval H6 GT PHEV

Certainly one of the most electrifying hybrids to reach local shores this year, Haval’s H6 GT PHEV is set to launch imminently.

A true performance SUV, the new plug-in model boasts combined outputs of 321kW and 762Nm, allowing for a 4.9 second 0-100km/h sprint, while the carmaker claims a pure electric range of up to 180km.

Omoda C9 PHEV

The luxurious Omoda C9 will be joined by a supremely powerful plug-in hybrid variant in 2025, pairing the familiar 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine with four electric motors for combined outputs of 440kW and 915Nm.

Scheduled for launch in July, the new C9’s is also said to be capable of covering up to 150km on electric power alone, thanks to a 34.5 kWh battery with DC fast charging capability.

Locally the C9 PHEV will be available exclusively with the Explore specification level, which means 20-inch wheels, Nappa leather interior, with seat heating for front and rear occupants, and a panoramic sunroof.

Chery Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 9 PHEVs

Chery will welcome a stylish new flagship SUV to its fold around September. Meet the new Tiggo 9.

Featuring a 1.5T petrol engine and three electric motors, the combined output is an impressive 230kW, while an all-electric range of up to 100km is said to be possible.

For the cabin, designers aimed to create a “warm and tech savvy” space. Highlights include a 15.6-inch HD screen and integrated multifunctional console. Specially crafted 3D stitched seats, meanwhile, add an upmarket touch.

While the Tiggo 9 represents the zenith of the local Chery line-up, the Chinese brand will also be introducing a pair of more affordable plug-in hybrids, with the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEVs due in July and August, respectively. More details on these models will be released in due course.

GAC M8 PHEV

GAC Motor, known for its sporty Emzoom and Emkoo crossover models, will be introducing something even more audacious in 2025.

The bold new M8 luxury MPV is set to reach our shores this year, featuring a huge ‘waterfall’ grille and luxurious interior.

Set to go up against the Mercedes V-Class, the M8 features a large panoramic sunroof, 14.6-inch infotainment system, ventilated seats and powered sliding doors.

The plug-in hybrid version delivers 274kW and 630Nm, while the 26 kWh battery pack allows a claimed range of up to 120km.

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