Hybrid Vehicle – 2021 Toyota Yaris Cross GXL By Kim

Building a new home in Skenes Creek in 2016 significantly increased my travel frequency to Melbourne, often navigating the serpentine and wildlife-rich Forrest-Apollo Bay Road. Concerned for my safety, my children urged me to upgrade to a vehicle equipped with modern safety features, fearing the design of my Honda Jazz posed a risk in wildlife encounters—particularly with kangaroos.
This concern dovetailed with my growing interest in eco-friendly transportation. I explored options ranging from hybrids to fully electric vehicles. However, the high costs, limited range, and sparse charging infrastructure for electric cars, coupled with the uncertainty of renewable energy sourcing, made me hesitant. Similarly, plug-in hybrids were cost-prohibitive, and without solar panels at home, I would still be dependent on fossil fuels.
Ultimately, I decided on a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). Despite its limitations—such as being more beneficial for city driving than highway travel—I believed it was a progressive choice over traditional cars.

The Environmental and Hybrids

Research, including a comprehensive study by the Argonne National Laboratory, indicates that hybrids are the more environmentally responsible choice over their lifespan. They require less energy per mile and produce fewer greenhouse gases compared to conventional vehicles. A European study echoed these findings, showing that HEVs are a viable alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles, striking a balance between global warming impact and emissions.

The decision – Hyundai Kona vs. Toyota Yaris Cross: The Decision

I compared the Hyundai Kona hybrid and the Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid, seeking the smallest SUV to meet my preference for compact cars while addressing my children’s safety concerns. Toyota’s established reputation in hybrid technology—and my sister’s endorsement of her Prius—swayed my decision toward the Yaris Cross.

The Transition Experience

Switching to a hybrid was seamless. The vehicle’s onboard computer intelligently manages the balance between electric and petrol power. Observing the dynamic between the dual engines and the battery’s charge level through the dashboard’s display is both intriguing and reassuring.

Fuel Efficiency and Future Outlook

My Yaris Cross boasts impressive fuel efficiency, averaging between 3.8 to 3.9L/100km—a notable improvement from the Honda Jazz’s 6L/100km. As technology advances, I remain optimistic about the prospects of electric vehicles. While I’m content with my hybrid for now, I’m open to considering a fully electric model in the future when it becomes a more viable option.