AA Buyer's Guide: Affordable models that already meet the Clean Car Standard

The Government has announced a new Clean Car Standard which will take effect next year, requiring car importers to meet progressively lower emissions targets, falling to 105 grams of C02/km average by 2025. If they don’t, they could face fines from 2023.

Europe and Japan have arguably met this target already, albeit with very different fleet profiles (for example, the Japan target includes 660cc minicars which make up a third of the fleet). But New Zealand is way behind with an average rating of 171g/km.

The move is designed to further push the demand for electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicle technology. There are currently no new cars with conventional internal combustion engines that meet the 105 grams per kilometre target. The closest is the 1.2-litre manual Suzuki Swift, which is 106 grams per kilometre.

“The proposed emissions target for 2025 is an aspirational target that may not be achievable in that tight timeframe,” says AA spokesperson Mark Stockdale.

“We understand the intentions behind it and our members want to see more low-emissions vehicles available here, but the risk is that this target could simply result in higher prices for new cars that still don’t meet the emissions standard. That could even result in people holding onto their older, higher emissions car for longer.”

Here are some new hybrids available today that already meet the standard.

Kia Niro HEV (from $39,990)

The entry level Kia Niro HEV SUV offers decent space without being overly large. It is well-equipped with safety features like Lane Keep Assist and Driver Attention Alert, and for added comfort there’s also smart cruise control which is excellent tech for an entry level model.

To view all Kia Niro models currently listed on DRIVEN, click here

The fuel consumption for the Kia Niro HEV is only 3.8l/100km, or 88g/km.

Lexus UX 250h (from $59,900)

The Lexus UX 250h is a striking compact crossover and features an opulent cabin with all the amenities you would expect from the premium car maker. The standard model includes 18-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, smart key entry and push button start, as well as a powerful eight speaker sound system.

To view all Lexus UX models currently listed on DRIVEN, click here

The Lexus UX 250h drinks just 4.7l/100km, or 94g/km.

Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid (from $46,990)

The Ioniq was launched back in 2017 and has been popular with Kiwi drivers ever since. It has an ace up its sleeve with its Australian-specific chassis tune, which has been developed over thousands of kilometres of driving on a variety of road surfaces, from urban roads to highways, freeways, mountain passes and country roads.

To view all Hyundai Ioniq models currently listed on DRIVEN, click here

While the conditions might not be identical to New Zealand, there are many similarities and this results in a great ride. The range-opening Ioniq Hybrid boasts an exceptional fuel rating of just 3.4l/100km, or 102g/km.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (from $52,490)

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was the bestselling plug-in hybrid model last year and has dominated this segment for some time. The battery tops out with around a 55km range, and can be filled easily by plugging the SUV into the mains overnight.

To view all Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV models currently listed on DRIVEN, click here

It’s a car suited to many lifestyles – some might even be able to do the daily work or school run purely on electricity. Fuel consumption is a measly 1.9l/100km, or 46g/km.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid (from $27,990)

The entry level fourth-gen Yaris Hatch GX has a sporty and bubbly look, and benefits from more than two decades of hybrid vehicle research. It comes with Toyota’s legendary high voltage hybrid warranty that covers the battery for up to 160,000km or eight years (whichever comes first) to offer buyers some added peace of mind.

Toyota has taken all it’s learned in the past and distilled it into an affordable, safe package. The Yaris will get you from A to B with a fuel consumption of just 3.3l/100km, or 76g/km.

To view all Toyota Yaris hybrid models currently listed on DRIVEN, click here

One thing’s for sure - if the proposed plan is implemented it will increase interest in electrified models. Hybrid models have already proven their popularity, with hybrid sales at an all-time high in 2020.