PHEV Archives - Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews

2026 Lexus RX: Tech Upgrades and Affordable PHEV Option

6Dec

By S.MartinezNo Comments

2026 Lexus RX: Tech Upgrades and Affordable PHEV Option

The all-new 2026 Lexus RX is here, packing a punch with its latest tech upgrades and an enticing new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant that won't break the bank. It's time to take a closer look at what this luxury SUV has in store for us.Key TakeawaysThe 2026 RX boasts advanced driver assistance systems and an improved infotainment system.A new PHEV variant offers a longer electric-only range, making it more practical for daily driving.Lexus has managed to keep the price of this eco-friendly option competitive with its gas counterparts.One of the biggest highlights of the 2026 RX is its updated infotainment system. The new touchscreen display is bigger, clearer, and easier to use than ever before. It's like having a giant smartphone in your car!The RX also comes with an array ...

BYD’s ‘Baby Shark’ Ute Spotted in South America

5Dec

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, Reviews

BYD’s ‘Baby Shark’ Ute Spotted in South America

South American roads are getting a splash of pink with the recent spotting of BYD's new PHEV utility vehicle, affectionately dubbed the 'Baby Shark.' This pint-sized version is set to follow its big brother and could be just what families need for weekend adventures or daily errands.Key TakeawaysThe BYD Baby Shark ute slots in below the larger Shark 6, offering a smaller form factor without sacrificing features.This monocoque PHEV vehicle aims to attract young families and urban dwellers with its compact size and eco-friendly credentials.BYD hopes that catchy branding will boost visibility among potential buyers who might not otherwise consider an electric or hybrid option.The BYD Baby Shark ute isn't just a smaller version of the Shark 6; it's designed to appeal specifically to those look...

Audi A3 PHEV Remains Unavailable in Australia Amid Uncertainty Over Petrol Price Parity for Hybrids

4Dec

By M.ChenNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, Guides & Maintenance, News

Audi A3 PHEV Remains Unavailable in Australia Amid Uncertainty Over Petrol Price Parity for Hybrids

The Audi A3 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) remains under evaluation by the brand's Australian division, with no immediate plans to bring it to local showrooms. This decision comes despite ongoing discussions about a range of upcoming models.Key TakeawaysThe A3 PHEV is still under consideration for Australia more than 12 months after initial talks began.Petrol price parity isn't guaranteed for future Audi hybrid models, as seen with the recent launch of the A5 and Q5 variants.Audi continues to evaluate a range of upcoming models including PHEV options.According to Audi Australia product manager Peter Strudwicke, discussions about bringing more plug-in hybrids to market remain ongoing. However, there's no update on the A3 PHEV at this time. The model is offered in Europe with two different hybrid sys...

Nissan Launches Frontier Pro and PHEV Models in China

3Dec

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, Pickup Trucks

Nissan Launches Frontier Pro and PHEV Models in China

Nissan's Chinese arm, Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile, has just dropped two new models for the local market: the diesel-powered Frontier Pro and its plug-in hybrid sibling. This marks a significant step as it’s Nissan’s first-ever pickup with an electric twist.Key TakeawaysNissan introduces the all-new Frontier Pro PHEV, their first plug-in hybrid truck globallyThe diesel version starts at CN¥169,900 while the PHEV variant ranges from CN¥189,900 to CN¥249,900Both models are built for export and will be shipped internationally by mid-2026The Frontier Pro PHEV stands out with its 300 kW output from a turbo engine coupled with an electric motor. It has up to 135 km of EV range, making it perfect for camping trips or as a portable power source at home.For those who prefer the classic diesel route,...

Toyota Ditches ‘Prime’ for Prius PHEV, Simplifies Naming

3Dec

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Toyota Ditches ‘Prime’ for Prius PHEV, Simplifies Naming

Toyota has made a significant change to the naming convention of its popular Prius Plug-in Hybrid model. Starting with the 2025 model year, Toyota is dropping the 'Prime' moniker and referring to it as simply the Prius PHEV. This move aims to make it easier for customers to understand what they're buying.Key TakeawaysThe new name, Prius PHEV, is more straightforward and helps avoid confusion with pure electric vehicles.The powertrain remains the same as in the previous model, offering 220 total horsepower and an impressive all-electric range of 44 miles.Standard features include cloth seats, automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, and advanced connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.The change in naming convention is more than just cosmetic. Toyota wants to mak...

Lotus Reverses Course with High-Performance PHEV SUVs

3Dec

By J.CarterNo Comments

Industry & Business, News, SUV & Crossovers

Lotus Reverses Course with High-Performance PHEV SUVs

Lotus, the storied British marque known for lightweight sports cars and a commitment to electrification, has unveiled plans for an ambitious lineup of plug-in hybrid SUVs. CEO Feng Qingfeng announced during an earnings call that the first model will debut in January 2026 with a staggering 710kW output, placing it firmly in the realm of supercars.Key TakeawaysThe Lotus PHEV SUV lineup will include three models, starting with an Eletre-based variant and followed by a smaller Vision X model.The first PHEV model is expected to achieve 0-100km/h acceleration in under three seconds, thanks to its powerful hybrid powertrain.Lotus aims to expand into markets like Italy, Spain, and Saudi Arabia with these new PHEVs, where EV adoption rates are slower compared to other regions.The upcoming Lotus PHE...

Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV MPV Launches in Thailand for $73,000

29Nov

By J.CarterNo Comments

Industry & Business, News

Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV MPV Launches in Thailand for $73,000

Great Wall Motor’s premium brand Wey has unveiled the right-hand drive version of its Gaoshan MPV in Thailand, now known as the Wey G9 Hi4. This luxury plug-in hybrid vehicle is priced at a hefty 2.349 million Thai Baht (approximately $73,000 USD), marking Wey’s strategic move into Southeast Asia.Key TakeawaysThe Wey G9 Hi4 is priced at 2.349 million Thai Baht ($73,000).It features a plug-in hybrid system with a 1.5T engine and dual electric motors.The vehicle offers advanced features like LED headlights, HUD, and second-row zero-gravity seats.The Wey G9 Hi4 is the latest in Great Wall Motor’s ambitious push into international markets, following the acquisition of GM's plant in Rayong, Thailand. The car’s dimensions closely match those of its domestic counterpart, the Gaoshan 7, with a sli...

Lotus Eletre PHEV Set to Debut in China and Europe

29Nov

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Lotus Eletre PHEV Set to Debut in China and Europe

Lotus, the British sports car maker now owned by Geely, is set to make a significant move into the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) market. The company’s CEO, Qingfeng Feng, announced that the Lotus Eletre PHEV will debut in China in January 2026 and launch in Europe later that year.Key TakeawaysThe Lotus Eletre PHEV will be introduced in China in early 2026, followed by a European release in the second half of the same year.This model is expected to help Lotus recover from its recent sales dip, which saw deliveries drop by 40% this year.The Eletre PHEV will be an SUV with advanced features like a 900V high-voltage system and a mixed range of around 1,100 km.Lotus is making a strategic shift towards plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) to boost sales after experiencing significant declines this year. The ...

28Nov

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Jaecoo J7 PHEV Undercuts BYD Sealion, Targets Chery and Geely in Australia

The 2026 Jaecoo J7 SHS Track has arrived in Australia priced at $43,990 drive-away, making it one of the most affordable plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. This new variant undercuts its closest rival, the BYD Sealion 6 ($42,990 before on-road costs), by $1,000.Key TakeawaysThe Jaecoo J7 SHS Track starts at $43,990 drive-away in Australia.It undercuts the BYD Sealion 6 by $1,000 and targets Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid and Geely Starray EM-i.The new variant offers a smaller infotainment system compared to higher-end models but retains wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.Equipped with the same powertrain as other J7 SHS variants, the Track version features a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine producing 105kW/215Nm paired with an electric motor of 150kW/310Nm and a one-speed Dedicated H...

BYD Seal 6 Saloon Review: Affordable PHEV with Ride Issues

28Nov

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, Reviews

BYD Seal 6 Saloon Review: Affordable PHEV with Ride Issues

The BYD Seal 6 Saloon, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model launched in the UK market, offers an attractive price point and efficient performance but faces criticism for its unsettled ride quality. The car's basic Boost trim level limits its appeal despite strong pricing.Key TakeawaysThe BYD Seal 6 Saloon is priced competitively at under £416 per month in leasing deals, undercutting premium PHEV competitors by over £10,000.Ride quality on UK roads is poor, limiting the car's overall appeal despite its affordability and space efficiency.The estate version of the Seal 6 offers better usability with more battery range and equipment compared to the saloon model.BYD continues its aggressive expansion in the UK market with the launch of the Seal 6 Saloon, marking its eighth new model introduction since...