Hybrid cars are gaining traction in Kenya, driven by rising fuel prices and a growing awareness of environmental issues.
These vehicles combine an electric motor with a traditional internal combustion engine, offering improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to conventional cars.
With models like the Toyota Prius and Toyota Corolla Fielder leading the market, buyers are increasingly opting for hybrids as a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.
In this article, WoK will explore the best hybrid cars available in Kenya, focusing on their features, fuel efficiency and suitability for various driving needs.
1. Lexus RX450 Hybrid
The Lexus RX 450h is a luxury hybrid SUV that combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor to deliver impressive power and fuel efficiency.
Key features include smooth and quiet hybrid powertrain with 308 horsepower, available in base, F Sport and Black Line Special Edition trims and standard all-wheel drive and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The impeccably crafted interior offers generous passenger space and a quiet cabin, along with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite of advanced safety features.
Estimated fuel consumption starts from 5.7L/100km. The 2022 model has a price range of $48,720 – $54,520 in the US.
2. Toyota Noah Hybrid
The Toyota Noah Hybrid is a minivan launched in January 2022, built on the TNGA (GA-C) platform.
It features a hybrid powertrain combining a 1.8L engine with an electric motor, achieving fuel efficiency of approximately 23 km/L.
The Noah is designed for family use, offering spacious interiors with sliding doors for easy access.
It is available in various trim levels, including hybrid options, and emphasizes comfort and safety with features like Toyota Safety Sense.
3. Nissan Note e-Power
The Nissan Note e-Power is a compact hybrid vehicle featuring a unique e-Power system, where a gasoline engine generates electricity to power the electric motor, rather than directly driving the wheels.
This setup allows for instant torque and smooth acceleration, achieving impressive fuel economy of 26 to 37.2 km/l.
The Note e-Power also boasts a spacious interior and advanced safety features like Intelligent Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning, making it suitable for urban driving and short errands.
4. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid SUV featuring a 2.4L engine paired with twin electric motors, delivering a combined output of 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.
It offers an electric-only range of approximately 38 miles and a total range of up to 420 miles with gasoline.
The vehicle includes seven drive modes for enhanced efficiency and performance, and it supports fast charging, achieving 80% in about 38 minutes.
5. Toyota Corolla Fielder Hybrid
The Toyota Corolla Fielder Hybrid is a compact wagon known for its fuel efficiency and practicality.
It features a 1.5L engine (1496 cc) paired with an electric motor, producing 74 hp and 111 Nm of torque.
The vehicle offers a spacious interior with a trunk capacity of 872 liters and includes safety features like airbags and ABS.
Released in 2013, it has become popular in markets, especially Kenya.
6. Honda Insight
The Honda Insight is a hybrid electric vehicle produced by Honda.
It debuted in 1999 as a two-door liftback and evolved through several generations, with the latest being a four-door sedan from 2018 to 2022.
The Insight was notable for its fuel efficiency and affordability, becoming the least expensive hybrid in the U.S. market.
It features a 1.5-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, providing a combined output of 151 horsepower and impressive fuel economy ratings of up to 55 mpg city.
Production ended in June 2022, replaced by the Civic Hybrid.
7. Honda Fit Hybrid
The Honda Fit Hybrid is a compact car known for its fuel efficiency and practicality.
Launched in 2010, it features a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine combined with an electric motor, achieving up to 36.4 km/L fuel consumption.
Yhe latest models offer a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for improved performance and driving experience. latest models offer a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for improved performance and driving experience.
The Fit Hybrid is designed for urban driving, providing ample cargo space and modern technology while maintaining affordability.
8. Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is a pioneering hybrid vehicle, first launched in Japan in 1997 and globally in 2000.
Known for its exceptional fuel efficiency, the latest 2024 model features a 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor, producing 194 horsepower, with an optional all-wheel-drive variant increasing output to 196 horsepower.
The Prius offers advanced safety features and modern infotainment systems, with an EPA rating of up to 57 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway.
The 2024 model continues the fifth generation introduced in 2023, maintaining its reputation for eco-friendliness and reliability.
