Say Hi to Hybrid: 14 Best Hybrid Cars in the Philippines

With the constantly rising fuel prices, everyone scrambles to save money on gas. Some even consider selling their cars—and understandably so, because how can anyone afford to drive around with such exorbitant fuel prices? 

Still, owning a car has its undeniable upsides. If you want to have enough budget for fuel, consider hybrid cars in the Philippines. 

You read that right—locally purchasing a hybrid vehicle isn’t a far-fetched dream anymore. Hybrid cars entered the Philippine automotive market in 2009 when Toyota first introduced the iconic Toyota Prius.^[1]

Find out why hybrid cars are great alternatives in this extensive beginner’s guide.

💸 Get Your Dream Car with a Security Bank Car Loan

Fund your dream hybrid car with a Security Bank Car Loan. Borrow up to 80% of the car’s price and enjoy competitive interest rates and payment terms for up to five years. 

Processing and approval time take between three to five days. If you get approved, you also get free car insurance for one year.

What is a Hybrid Car?

A hybrid car is a vehicle with at least one electric motor paired with a gasoline engine. Since it has two power sources, a hybrid car can choose which is more efficient in a given driving condition. 

When you’re driving slow, most hybrid cars are programmed to use the electric motor to move the car. At higher speeds, the regular engine is arguably the better choice. 

But how does a vehicle run using electricity? 

A hybrid car comes with a high-voltage battery separate from the car’s conventional battery. Power is generated by capturing energy from the deceleration usually lost to the heat generated by the brakes—a process known as regenerative braking. A hybrid car also uses its gasoline engine to charge and maintain the power of the battery.

You can choose to drive solely using the electric motor. Just switch to the gasoline engine when the battery is low. This can go the other way around as well. 

Ran out of fuel? Switch to the electric motor before you reach the next gas station. 

From there, you can deduce the advantages of owning a hybrid car.

Types of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid cars also have subcategories.^[2] Familiarize yourself with these types so you can better sift through the long list of hybrid cars in the Philippines. 

• Parallel hybrids are the most common vehicles you’ll find. In a parallel hybrid, the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the transmission, effectively blending the two power sources. 
• Series hybrids are the opposites of parallels, as the electric motor does the legwork and there’s no physical connection between the engine and the wheels. The gasoline engine is simply there to recharge the electric motor. A series hybrid operates like an electric vehicle, only with a gasoline engine.
• Plug-in hybrids have a larger battery pack compared to other hybrids, and they must be fully recharged using an external electricity source. If you run out of battery, this vehicle will revert to a conventional parallel hybrid.
• Mild hybrids can’t run on electricity alone, but their electric motor still assists the gasoline engine. This results in reduced fuel consumption, although not as efficient as their hybrid counterparts.

What is the Difference Between Hybrid Cars vs Electric Vehicles?

Before you plug in an extension cord that will stretch to your garage, let’s make one thing clear: a hybrid car isn’t exactly the same as an electric vehicle.

As explained above, hybrid cars for sale in the Philippines still come with a gasoline engine that helps them to accelerate. They have the option to choose whatever power source fits.

Meanwhile, electric vehicles, commonly referred to as EVs, run purely on electricity with little to no assistance from a gasoline engine. EVs are usually powered by large battery packs that allow them to run at least 400 kilometers non-stop. As convenient as they sound, they come with high price tags—they’ll probably blow up your Meralco bill every month.

While electric vehicles have long been available in the market, most establishments have yet to add accommodations for EV car owners. For example, you probably won’t find an EV charging station in far-flung provinces, but you’ll surely find a gas station if you drive long enough. 

That’s why it’s better to invest in hybrid cars in the Philippines for now.

Pros and Cons of Using a Hybrid Car

Owning a hybrid car sounds good and all, but just like with any other purchase, you should always consider the pros and cons. Review the most common advantages and disadvantages before going to the nearest car dealership.

👍 Pro: Better Fuel Economy

Probably the biggest upside is the fuel consumption of a hybrid car. Because it comes with an electric motor that can take over or assist the gasoline engine, hybrid cars tend to rank among the top fuel-efficient cars compared to traditional vehicles. 

While hybrids tend to be more expensive, they can be more cost-effective in the long run. 

👍 Pro: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly

Because hybrid cars have electric motors, their gas engines tend to consume less fuel, leading to reduced carbon dioxide emissions. If you’re a green-conscious person looking to contribute to the numerous efforts that address the global climate crisis, consider owning a hybrid car. 

👍 Pro: Smoother Ride and Quieter Engine

An electric motor provides higher torque compared to a traditional gasoline engine. This allows a hybrid car to accelerate faster, with less vibrations. 

An electric motor also makes little to no noise. You can enjoy your travel playlists or conversations with your passengers better without being distracted by angry car noises. 

👎 Con: More Expensive Upfront 

There’s a reason why hybrid and electric vehicles still aren’t too popular despite being in the market for a while now. It’s because they come with price tags that will make your wallet cry. 

Try to compare the roster of hybrids below to our list of cheapest cars in the Philippines, and see if you still prefer a hybrid car over a cheaper alternative.

👎 Con: Poorer Handling

Another con of hybrid cars is that they have poorer handling compared to traditional cars. Because hybrid cars are packed with innovative technologies, they tend to be heavier and therefore more difficult to handle. The extra weight also reduces their fuel efficiency, so keep this in mind when choosing a brand-new or second-hand car. 

Read more: Buying a New Car? What to Remember Before Visiting a Car Dealer

👎 High-Voltage Batteries 

Because hybrid cars are powered by high-voltage battery packs, there’s a risk that you, your passengers, and potential rescuers can get electrocuted if an accident occurs. If you plan to drive a hybrid car, brush up on your defensive driving and focus all your attention on the road.

Read more: Car Safety Features: Does Your Vehicle Have Them All?

14 Best Hybrid Cars in the Philippines in 2024

Now that you’ve decided to go hybrid, here comes the fun part: exploring and comparing your options! To help you make the right choice, here’s an extensive list of hybrid cars available in the Philippines, arranged according to fuel efficiency. 

🚗 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid

• Body type: MPV 
• Transmission: Manual or automatic 
• Performance: 103 Hp at 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm at 4,400 rpm
• Seating capacity: Seven 
• Price: Starts at ₱954,000

If you’re looking for the cheapest hybrid car in the Philippines, take a look at the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid. This MPV screams elegance, from its modern-looking front side to its 15-inch alloy wheels. 

Its beauty is complemented by its fuel-saving features. Its hybrid engine responds immediately to the driver’s input, which results in fuel efficiency. Through its streamlined and aerodynamic body, the car enjoys a low drag coefficient for improved fuel economy. 

🚗 Suzuki XL7 Hybrid 

• Body type: Crossover 
• Transmission: Automatic 
• Performance: 103 Hp at 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm at 4,400 rpm
• Seating capacity: Seven 
• Price: Starts at ₱1,252,000

The XL7 is another beautiful hybrid car from Suzuki. Its modern aesthetics is coupled with practical features, such as generous space and reliable creature comforts. 

But its fuel-saving features make it more appealing. For one, its 1.5L petrol engine responds quickly to the driver’s command, which saves gas in the long run. It also underwent wind tunnel testing for superb aerodynamics and fuel economy. 

If you’re looking for an affordable hybrid crossover, this one’s a good pick.

🚗 Geely Okavango

• Body type: Crossover
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 187 Hp at 6,000 rpm and 300 Nm @ 1,500 rpm
• Seating capacity: Seven
• Price: Starts at ₱1,363,000

The Geely Okavango is a relatively affordable crossover that suits families or those who usually travel with a group of friends, all thanks to its generous space that can seat up to seven people.

The Okavango features a 48V Electric Motor Synergy (EMS) that helps lower fuel consumption level while giving you a pleasant ride. 

🚗 Toyota Corolla Cross

• Body type: Crossover
• Transmission: CVT
• Performance: 97 Hp at 5,200 rpm and 142 Nm at 3,600 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: Starts at ₱1,498,000

Want a crossover version of the Toyota Corolla Altis? Check out the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid V. With a fuel economy of 22.2 km/L, this vehicle proves to be a capable hybrid that can match the efficiency of its sedan counterparts.

The Toyota Corolla Cross is powered by a capable 97-horsepower, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine, and an equally efficient electric motor. 

🚗 Mazda3 Hybrid

• Body type: Hatchback
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 162 Hp at 6,000 rpm and 213 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: ₱1,790,000

Included on this list of top hybrid cars in the Philippines is the Mazda3 Hybrid. This hatchback is powered by the Mazda Hybrid Technology, whose engine uses the captured energy typically wasted during braking. The captured energy is then converted into electric energy and used to move the vehicle. 

And since the system moves the car independently from its combustion system, the engine doesn’t get loaded with work. This results in fuel efficiency and lower carbon dioxide emissions.

🚗 Toyota Corolla Altis Hybrid

• Body type: Sedan
• Transmission: CVT
• Performance: 97 Hp at 5,200 rpm and 142 Nm @ 3,600 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: Starts at ₱1,730,000

When talking about the best sedans in the Philippines, the Toyota Corolla Altis Hybrid V is never out of the conversation. Its hybrid system uses a self-charging motor for fuel efficiency. 

The Corolla Altis Hybrid is a thing of beauty, perfectly matching those who put a premium on aesthetics. It can also double as a family car, as it can seat up to five passengers. 

The Corolla Altis is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of safety features including Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. 

🚗 Geely Azkarra

• Body type: Crossover
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 190 Hp at 5,500 rpm and 300 Nm at up to 4,000 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: ₱1,808,000 

Looking for a hybrid all-wheel-drive SUV that’s relatively cheap? Chinese car manufacturer Geely has you covered with the Geely Azkarra. 

First introduced in 2020, the Geely Azkarra is a mild hybrid vehicle powered by a 48V Electric Motor Synergy battery and a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine. This stylish crossover generates a power output of 190 Hp and a torque of 300 Nm, allowing you to take both city roads and freeways. 

🚗 Toyota Camry Hybrid

• Body type: Sedan
• Transmission: CVT
• Performance: 176 Hp at 5,700 rpm and 221 Nm at 5,200 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: Starts at ₱2,442,000

The Toyota Camry is pretty much the Corolla Altis’ big brother. It’s a bigger vehicle that can seat up to five people, making it a good choice for families. It has a beefier 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder engine, ensuring power and reliability. 

One unique feature of the Camry Hybrid is its EV mode, which allows you to drive your vehicle using only electric power. This driving option is perfect for short trips. 

With its current vehicle lineup, there’s no wonder Toyota is a go-to for hybrid cars in the Philippines for 2024.  

🚗 GAC Emkoo Hybrid 

• Body type: SUV 
• Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission
• Performance: 138 Hp at 6,000 rpm and 180 Nm at 4,500 rpm 
• Seating capacity: Five 
• Price: Expected price at ₱2,498,000

One of the upcoming hybrid cars in the Philippines, the GAC Emkoo Hybrid marries style and functionality in one unit. This SUV is one of the strongest candidates if you want an alternative to mainstream nameplates like the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Montero Sport. 

The Emkoo Hybrid is outfitted with a dedicated hybrid transmission, allowing you to use your gasoline engine and electric motor at once. As a result, you use less fuel and ultimately reduce car ownership costs.   

🚗 Honda CR-V e:HEV

• Body type: Crossover 
• Transmission: CVT 
• Performance: 146 Hp at 6,100 rpm and 183 Nm at 4,500 rpm
• Seating capacity:
• Price: Starts at ₱2,590,000

The CR-V is one of Honda’s best-selling cars, thanks to its luxury-driven design and utility. It also comes in a hybrid variant built for those who want to upgrade their driving experience and simultaneously save money on fuel. 

Honda’s hybrid system uses a combination of two electric motors, namely the traction motor and the generator motor. These motors are paired with a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter Direct Injection Atkinson Cycle engine, delivering a power output of 146 Hp and a torque of 183 Nm. With such a strong car, you can carry heavy loads with ease.

🚗 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

• Body type: SUV
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 126 Hp at 4,500 rpm and 199 Nm at 4,500 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: Starts at ₱2,998,000

Mitsubishi claims the Outlander PHEV is the world’s best-selling hybrid SUV. And there are a couple of reasons behind that. 

For one, the Outlander PHEV has twin electric drive motors on the car’s front and rear axles. This makes for a silent and smooth drive. 

As an SUV, the Outlander PHEV can take on off-road duties. It comes with various driving modes to help your car adapt to different road conditions.  

This hybrid is a great choice if you’re looking for the best SUV in the Philippines.

🚗 Mazda CX-90

• Body type: Crossover 
• Transmission: Automatic 
• Performance: 280 Hp at up to 6000 rpm and 450 Nm at up to 3500 rpm
• Seating capacity: Eight 
• Price: Starts at ₱3,680,000

The CX-90, one of Mazda’s latest cars, is easily a head-turner with its premium and elegant aesthetics. But it goes beyond beauty with its hybrid system.  

The CX-90’s 3.3-liter e-SKYACTIV-G engine features Mazda’s 48-volt hybrid system, which makes for reliable output and fuel economy. The impeccable Japanese engineering also manifests in the car’s all-wheel drive, providing a stable ride that responds well to various road conditions. 

🚗 Volvo XC90

• Body type: SUV
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 313 Hp and 460 Nm
• Seating capacity: Seven
• Price: ₱5,890,000

If you’re looking for the ultimate flex, the Volvo XC90 mild hybrid should be your next hybrid car. This car has a smart energy recovery system, allowing you to save money on fuel. This works by recovering the energy produced when braking and storing it in its 48V battery. 

The Volvo XC90 also comes with advanced features that make driving safe and comfortable. These include an air purifier, blind spot information system, and driver assistance technology. 

🚗 Lexus LS 500h Premier

• Body type: Sedan
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 295 Hp at 6,600 rpm and 350 Nm at 5,100 rpm
• Seating capacity: Five
• Price: Starts at ₱9,938,000

As if the average hybrid car price in the Philippines can’t get any higher, here comes Lexus with its line of hybrid standouts. 

What do you get for a car worth almost ₱10 million? A powerful V6 3.5L direct injection engine paired with two self-charging electric motors, a premium-feeling interior and exterior, and a 14-airbag collision safety feature. Fuel efficiency could be better though, but that’s what a power-hungry engine gets you.

Tips When Buying a Hybrid Car in the Philippines

To land the best hybrid car, take a look at these tips: 

✔️ Make Sure to Get the Most Out of Your Buck

Even some of the most affordable hybrid cars in the Philippines can still cost you more than ₱1 million. So if the goal of going hybrid is to save more in the long run, get yourself a car that efficiently conserves fuel down to the last drop. 

✔️ Choose Your Hybrid Car Type Carefully

The type of hybrid car you choose will affect your overall hybrid car experience. So before you search where to buy a car with a hybrid system, make sure to pinpoint a type that fits your lifestyle.

A parallel or series hybrid should be perfect if you prioritize fuel efficiency and want the full hybrid experience. A plug-in hybrid is best if you prefer to drive using your car’s electric power and don’t mind charging your car at home. A mild hybrid is usually cheaper than other hybrid types, so you can save more money upfront.

✔️ Choose a Hybrid with a Lighter, More Compact Body

If you’re looking to save more on fuel and don’t have a large family, it’s probably best to get yourself a smaller, more compact sedan. This will help your hybrid engine consume less fuel, further optimizing its efficiency.

Hybrid Cars in the Philippines: FAQs

1. How much do hybrid cars in the Philippines cost in 2024?

The price range of hybrid cars varies wildly, but it’s generally expensive and can reach up to ₱9 million (at least as far as this list goes)—and that’s not even the most expensive one out there! 

It’s possible to get a car of this type for less. For instance, Suzuki offers relatively inexpensive hybrid cars in the Philippines for a little over ₱950,000.^[3] 

If you’re looking to save more on a hybrid car, start figuring out where to buy second-hand cars. 

2. Why are hybrid cars expensive in the Philippines?

Hybrid cars are more expensive than traditional cars because they’re usually packed with innovative features that aid fuel efficiency, smooth handling, and low carbon emission, among many other perks. They may be expensive upfront, but they’re relatively more cost-effective in the long run, considering how they require less fuel and maintenance.

3. How long does a hybrid car battery last?

A hybrid car battery has a pretty long life. It usually matches the life of a car's regular battery, mainly because the electric motor of a hybrid car usually gets its power from the gas engine. Plus, the hybrid’s computer system monitors the charge of the electric motor, preventing it from overcharging and undercharging.

4. How do I charge a hybrid car battery?

Unless you have a plug-in hybrid, you don’t have to worry about recharging your hybrid car’s electric motor. Most hybrids feature self-charging batteries powered by their gasoline engine’s regenerative braking. 

For plug-in hybrids, they need to be plugged into an external source to recharge, which usually takes four to eight hours.

5. Is a hybrid car more expensive to service?

Concerned about hybrid cars’ maintenance costs? You shouldn’t worry too much. 

Unlike traditional vehicles, hybrid cars are easier to maintain since their gasoline engines don’t experience too much stress. Their motors also have minimal moving parts and take longer to wear out. Aside from saving on gas money, you’ll also save on trips to the mechanic. 

Final Thoughts

The concept of hybrid cars in the Philippines might sound futuristic, but these vehicle types are as good as reality in this modern age. Anyone can have a taste of the future now, so if you can afford one, make sure to maximize every million you spend on a hybrid. 

Also, just like with any other vehicle, it’s always best to insure your million-peso purchase. Get a free car insurance quote from the country’s top insurance providers!

Car Insurance Company	Maximum Total Sum Insured	CTPL Coverage	Own Damage & Theft Coverage	Acts of Nature Coverage	Death / Disablement Coverage
FPG Insurance	₱4 million	✔️	✔️	✔️
Malayan Insurance	₱7.5 million	✔️	✔️	✔️
The Mercantile Insurance Corporation	₱5 million		✔️	✔️
OONA Insurance (formerly MAPFRE)	₱5 million	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️
PGA Insurance	₱3 million				✔️
SGI Philippines	₱5 million	✔️		✔️	✔️
Standard Insurance	₱5 million	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️
Stronghold Insurance	₱3 million		✔️

 

Sources:

• ^[1] Pioneer of hybrid electrification in the Philippines (Manilla Bulletin, 2019)
• ^[2] Yes, you can now buy a hybrid or electric car locally (Manila Bulletin, 2022)
• ^[3] Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid