All Chinese Hybrid Models Currently on Sale in SA

The term ‘hybrid’ is quite misunderstood in the motoring landscape. For years people thought that hybrids are electric cars. In a way, they are. But as the origins of the term imply, there is an amalgamation of different things. In this case it is two power sources. The most common combination is an electric drivetrain paired with a petrol engine. While Toyota pioneered the genre in SA, there have been a flurry of Chinese hybrid models that have gone on sale in recent months. We take a closer look at what’s on the market and what each has to offer.

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BYD Sealion 6

The BYD Sealion 6, a plug-in hybrid SUV, was quietly introduced locally. It aims to deliver a combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and intelligent features for varied driving needs, from city commutes to longer journeys. Utilising BYD’s Super DM-I technology, the Sealion 6 offers decent power and efficiency. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant provides 238 kW and 550 N.m of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 5,9 seconds.

For those focusing on fuel economy, the front-wheel-drive (FWD) model achieves 4,8 L/100 km. With a full tank, the FWD can cover up to 1 080 km, while the AWD offers 870 km of range. The Sealion 6 integrates smart technology for a connected drive, including a 15,6-inch infotainment touchscreen, smart voice control, and an advanced head-up display, contributing to a user-friendly cabin. The BYD Sealion 6 is positioned as an option in the plug-in hybrid family SUV segment in South Africa.

Power/Torque:
- FWD: 160 kW/300 N.m
- AWD: 238 kW/550 N.m
Range:
- FWD (electric-only): 80 km
- AWD (electric-only): 70 km
Fuel Consumption:
- FWD: 4,8 L/100 km
- AWD: 5,8 L/100 km
Price:
- Comfort FWD: R639 900
- Dynamic FWD: R689 900
- Premium AWD: R789 900

Chery Tiggo7 CSH PHEV

Chery South Africa has just launched the Tiggo7 CSH PHEV, which is based on the existing Tiggo7. This is the brand’s first electrified vehicle offering, which has a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Available in Plus and Ultra trims, this model represents Chery’s commitment to delivering both performance and efficiency. Powering the Tiggo7 CSH PHEV is a 1,5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor, providing a combined output of 265 kW and 530 N.m of torque.

Thanks to its 18,3 kWh battery pack, the vehicle claims an all-electric range of 93 km, ideal for daily commutes with zero tailpipe emissions. The combined driving range is notably impressive, extending up to 1 200 km on a single tank and full charge. Chery claims a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of just 4,9 L/100 km. Charging is convenient, with a DC fast charger capable of replenishing the battery from 30-80% in approximately 20 minutes, while a full AC charge takes between four and eight hours. The interior features a striking 24,6-inch intelligent curved double screen, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and a 50W wireless charging pad. Safety is prioritized with eight airbags and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS).

Power/Torque: 265 kW/530 N.m (combined outputs)
Range:
- Electric-only: Up to 93 km
- Combined: Up to 1 200 km
Fuel Consumption: 4,9 L/100 km
Price:
- Plus: R599 900
- Ultra: R679 000

Haval H6 GT PHEV

GWM South Africa has introduced the Haval H6 GT Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), an evolution of its H6 GT coupé-style SUV. This new model aims to blend performance with hybrid efficiency, offering a stylish option in the family SUV segment. At its core, the H6 GT PHEV features a petrol-electric drivetrain, delivering a combined output of 321 kW and 762 N.m of torque. This allows for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4,9 seconds. Its hybrid architecture provides a driving range of up to 1 000 km on a single charge and full tank. A 35,4 kWh battery pack provides an all-electric range of up to 180 km for daily use.

Visually, the H6 GT PHEV features a bold front grille, LED lighting, and a coupé-inspired silhouette. The cabin aims to combine comfort with driver-focused design, offering heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 12,3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Priced at R799 900, the H6 GT PHEV includes a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and an eight-year/150 000 km battery warranty.

Power/Torque: 321 kW/762 N.m (combined outputs)
Range:
- Electric-only: up to 180 km
- Combined: up to 1 000 km
Fuel Consumption: 5,4 L/100 km
Price: R799 900

Jaecoo J7 SHS

Jaecoo’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, the J7 SHS, has officially made its debut in South Africa, reflecting the brand’s interest in sustainable motoring. This electrified vehicle combines a turbocharged 1,5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 255 kW and 525 N.m of torque for responsive acceleration.

Equipped with an 18,3 kWh battery, the J7 SHS has a 90 km all-electric range, which can be practical for daily commutes. For longer trips, a total driving range of over 1 200 km is available. Charging the battery from 30-80% takes 20 minutes using a compatible 40 kW DC fast charger. Inside, the J7 SHS shares styling with the standard J7, featuring black leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 14,8-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Priced at R689 900, the J7 SHS includes a seven-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and a 10-year/unlimited km power battery pack warranty.

Power/Torque: 255 kW/525 N.m (combined outputs)
Range:
- Electric-only: 90 km
Fuel Consumption: 4,7 L/100 km
Price: R689 900

Omoda C9 PHEV

The new Omoda C9 PHEV has arrived in South Africa, representing a step in the brand’s approach to electrified motoring. Which will continue with pure EVs. The C9 plug-in hybrid SUV aims to offer all-electric capability for urban driving with the extended range of a petrol engine for longer trips. Under the bonnet, the C9 PHEV produces 440 kW of power and 915 N.m of torque from its twin-electric motor and petrol engine setup. This allows for a combined fuel consumption figure as low as a quoted 1,4 L/100 km.

The C9 PHEV offers 150 km electric-only range and a combined range exceeding 1 100 km, suiting both daily use and longer excursions. The Omoda C9 PHEV’s interior includes Nappa leather-trimmed seats, dual digital displays, and a 12-speaker Sony sound system. Its 34,5 kWh battery can charge from 30-80% in 25 minutes. Available in the Explore trim, the C9 PHEV is priced at R999 000.