Independent comparison highlights why plug-in hybrid SUVs are becoming one of Australia's smartest new car choices.

Plug-in hybrid SUVs (PHEVs) are rapidly becoming one of Australia's most popular vehicle choices, offering the benefits of electric driving with the convenience of a petrol engine for longer trips.

But with more manufacturers entering the market, which plug-in hybrid SUV offers the best combination of efficiency, value and everyday usability?

A recent independent comparison by Wheels magazine put four of Australia's newest plug-in hybrid SUVs through a demanding 700km real-world highway test:

• Geely Starray EM-i
• Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid
• BYD Sealion 5
• GWM Haval H6 PHEV

Rather than relying solely on official fuel economy figures, the test measured how each vehicle performed once its battery was depleted—one of the biggest questions buyers ask when considering a plug-in hybrid.

Why This Plug-in Hybrid SUV Comparison Matters

Many plug-in hybrid vehicles advertise fuel consumption figures around 1.0–1.5L/100km, but these are achieved under controlled laboratory testing with a fully charged battery.

To better reflect real Australian driving, Wheels began the comparison with every SUV fully charged before immediately tackling more than 700 kilometres of predominantly highway driving, allowing the reviewers to assess:

• Real-world electric driving range
• Fuel economy after the battery was depleted
• Ride comfort
• Interior quality
• Technology
• Overall value

The result was one of Australia's most comprehensive real-world PHEV comparisons.

Meet the Four Plug-in Hybrid SUVs

Geely Starray EM-i

The Geely Starray EM-i entered the comparison with the largest battery and the longest claimed electric driving range.

Highlights included:

• 29.8kWh battery
• Claimed WLTP electric range of 136km
• 193kW combined power
• Modern minimalist interior
• Large cargo capacity

During testing, the Starray impressed by travelling an outstanding 102km on electric power alone, comfortably the best result of the four vehicles. It also returned an impressive 5.3L/100km over the full 700km drive.

The reviewers praised the Geely's build quality, spacious cabin and responsive infotainment system, while noting its firm ride and overly sensitive safety systems.

Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid

The Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid focused on delivering exceptional value while still offering strong performance and efficiency.

Highlights included:

• 255kW combined power
• 90km claimed WLTP electric range
• Competitive drive-away pricing
• Comprehensive equipment list

Although it recorded a shorter electric-only distance than the Geely (69km), the Tiggo 7 produced the lowest fuel consumption of the comparison, averaging just 5.2L/100km over the demanding highway test.

Reviewers also praised its excellent touring range, helped by its efficient hybrid system and larger fuel tank.

BYD Sealion 5

The BYD Sealion 5 impressed with its premium presentation and comfortable road manners.

Key highlights included:

• Premium-feeling interior
• Comfortable ride quality
• 85km claimed electric range
• 156kW combined output

During testing it achieved 72km of electric driving before returning 6.3L/100km overall.

The reviewers considered it the most premium cabin in the comparison while praising its refinement on longer drives.

GWM Haval H6 PHEV

The only all-wheel-drive vehicle in the comparison, the GWM Haval H6 PHEV focused on performance.

Highlights included:

• AWD drivetrain
• 268kW combined power
• Australian-tuned steering
• Strong driving dynamics

The Haval covered 73km on electric power and returned 6.2L/100km during the 700km test. Reviewers described it as the most engaging SUV to drive thanks to its Australian suspension and steering tuning.

Real-World Results

Results from the independent Wheels 700km comparison test.

The Verdict: Which Plug-in Hybrid SUV Is Best?

After more than 700 kilometres of real-world testing, Wheels concluded that all four plug-in hybrid SUVs delivered impressive efficiency, technology and value, noting there was "precious little to split them."

However, each vehicle excelled in different areas.

🏆 Overall Winner – Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid

The Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid was named the overall winner thanks to its outstanding value, lowest real-world fuel consumption (5.2L/100km) and excellent long-distance touring ability.

According to the reviewers, if value and running costs are your priority, the Tiggo 7 is difficult to ignore.

⚡ Best Electric Driving Range – Geely Starray EM-i

The Geely Starray EM-i delivered the longest electric-only driving distance by a considerable margin.

Travelling 102km before the petrol engine engaged, it demonstrated why buyers looking to maximise electric commuting should have the Starray high on their shortlist.

⭐ Most Premium Interior – BYD Sealion 5

The BYD Sealion 5 earned praise for its premium cabin, refined ride quality and comfortable touring ability, making it one of the most polished SUVs in the group.

🚗 Most Enjoyable to Drive – GWM Haval H6 PHEV

Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and Australian-developed chassis tuning, the Haval H6 PHEV stood out as the driver's choice, offering the strongest performance and handling of the comparison.

Should You Buy a Geely Starray EM-i or Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid?

For buyers comparing plug-in hybrid SUVs in Sydney and the Illawarra, the independent comparison highlighted why both the Geely Starray EM-i and Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid deserve serious consideration.

Choose the Geely Starray EM-i if you:

• Want maximum electric driving range
• Have access to home charging
• Commute regularly
• Enjoy modern technology and a premium cabin

Choose the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid if you:

• Want exceptional value for money
• Prioritise low fuel consumption
• Need an efficient family SUV
• Regularly travel longer distances

Experience Australia's Standout Plug-in Hybrid SUVs at Tynan Motors

Independent testing continues to show just how competitive the latest generation of plug-in hybrid SUVs has become.

Whether you're looking for the class-leading electric range of the Geely Starray EM-i or the award-winning value and efficiency of the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, Tynan Motors has you covered.

Visit:

• Tynan Geely Miranda to explore the Geely Starray EM-i.
• Tynan Chery Wollongong to discover the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid.

Book a test drive today and experience two of Australia's most talked-about plug-in hybrid SUVs for yourself.