Looking for a Small to Mid-Sized Hybrid or EV SUV around $30k

immortanwayne on 09/02/2026 - 21:37

Hello OzBargain braintrust,

Welcome to another minimally researched car buying thread. As the title says, I'm looking to buy a brand new small to mid-sized SUV around $30k. After looking around online and around here I've settled on 4 options:

BYD Atto 2
Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid
Haval Jolin Hybrid
MG ZS Hybrid

I've also looked at the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid but that might be too big for me.

Additional info:
I drive around 50km for work everyday, so a maximum of 300km a week. I'm looking to keep the car for a while. No plans to upgrade anytime soon, so looking for the longest warranty possible and a car that will last. I don't have EV charging infrastructure at my apartment but I can charge at work.

I have booked test drives for all of the above this coming weekend. I'm looking for feedback from people who own any of these cars. Any other options or suggestions are very welcome.

Poll Options

50
BYD Atto 2
5
Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid
4
Haval Jolin Hybrid
2
MG ZS Hybrid
3
Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid

Automotive BYD Auto Car Chery Haval Hybrid Vehicle MG SUV Electric Vehicle

Comments

Best

AustriaBargain on 09/02/2026 - 21:59

+10

Wait until you've test driven them all.
- pegaxs on 10/02/2026 - 09:06
  
  +4
  
  ^^ This at a minimum… hell, go and at least sit in a few of them first. You will know right away what ones you like and dont and will knock about 3 or more off that list just sitting in them…
localhost on 09/02/2026 - 22:21

+4

Why hybrid? You are getting worse from both sides.
- boomramada on 10/02/2026 - 09:39
  
  +4
  
  More like best choice for Australia, just look at the new car sales stats.
- Bignudge on 10/02/2026 - 10:57
  
  +1
  
  I can't disagree with you too much for a car without track record… but a 450,000KM Hybrid Toyota Camry used by a Taxi/Uber on the original battery defintiely says something. And it's not just one or two lucky ones either.
  - SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 11:05
    
    -1
    
    The whole cheap charging is a false economy.
    
    "Free solar" - installing PV costs money, and anything not fed in (very low amount) won't get a return FiT.
    
    "Free" few hours of EV electric plans. Those plans are an absolute ripoff with much higher supply fee, peak and off peak rate. (Demand loading on some plans too).
    
    Public charger ranged from 40-65 cents. So for a 60kWh charge, it is $24-40 per charge. Cheaper than a hybrid (app $50 per fill up on our Honda eHEV), but not "free" as some made out to be.
    
    7kws (some goes to 11) to top up 60kWh takes just over 8 hours.
    
    So, really depends on personal circumstances.
    - V2L on 10/02/2026 - 15:02
      
      "Free" few hours of EV electric plans. Those plans are an absolute ripoff with much higher supply fee, peak and off peak rate.
      
      not really, you just have to shop around. the OVO plan has a supply charge of 98c daily, up to 33c per kwh for peak and 3hrs of free window + off peak night time rates 8c per kwh which was cheaper than any non EV plan. I've not paid anything for over 3 months of running the car by charging free window only. If I was lazy and charged at night off peak it's less than $5 for 400km.
      - Bigboomboom on 12/02/2026 - 14:45
        
        @V2L: You pay a daily charge???? I'm with Globird Zero Hero and all I need to do is feed back to grid during peak 2kWh a day to get zero daily charge and zero usage. Most of the time the 2kWh came from grid during free 3 windows. Have continually been in credit since November when I switched to Globird from OVO.
- supersabroso on 12/02/2026 - 00:02
  
  A conventional hybrid car generally in the most cost efficient sweet spot and has the longest range compared to any other type of car. You'll actually never get your money back for most EVs unless you drive about 20,000km+/year and/or get it on a 5 year novated lease plan. So if OP is going through a novated lease the the BYD Atto 2 will win financially.
- immortanwayne on 09/02/2026 - 23:35
  
  -2
  
  Because of the higher fuel efficiency
  - oscargamer on 10/02/2026 - 09:03
    
    +5
    
    False economy when you have access to charging at work
freefall101 on 10/02/2026 - 01:27

+3

If you can get a novated lease, Atto2 becomes a no brainer.

What’s the long term apartment situation look like? Is electric charging on the horizon or at least possible? Is the work charging free/cheap? Paying to charge all the time can get expensive.
- immortanwayne on 10/02/2026 - 05:52
  
  I will be buying outright. I'm renting so the home charging situation is not going to change anytime soon. Work charging is around $0.40c from memory.
  - oscargamer on 10/02/2026 - 09:04
    
    +4
    
    Why buy outright? EV's on a novated lease make a very good deal
    - coffeeinmyveins on 10/02/2026 - 12:37
      
      Because not every employer has this option
- SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 11:06
  
  -2
  
  "Atto2 becomes a no brainer."
  
  It is not. The intrinsic cost is less than one might think. Espcially if you are on a lower bracket and buying a cheaper car.
  - freefall101 on 10/02/2026 - 12:42
    
    True, income matters. For most people looking at a new car I’d hope they’re in the income bracket it makes sense though. Otherwise buy used.
    
    The pricing of the other cars listed isn’t significantly different. Anything significantly cheaper is a worse car.
    - SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 12:44
      
      -1
      
      I was referring more specifically to FBT exemption on EVs. It is not as good of a deal it may look.
      
      Cars selected are reason. OP did not come out with a BMW i4.
      - V2L on 10/02/2026 - 15:06
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: cost of the car is irrelevant when you are looking at % saved apart from the set up cost and admin fee being a bigger $ of the cost which is miniscule and not really going to make a difference
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 15:42
        
        -1
        
        @V2L: "cost of the car is irrelevant … set up cost and admin fee … which is miniscule"
        
        You are kidding. The biggest cost is the financing cost and random add on "premium" insurance policy.
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 15:54
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: you know you can choose your own insurer right?
        
        the interest cost is proportional to the principal ie. the purchase price, so what point are you making?
      - freefall101 on 10/02/2026 - 15:35
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: So was I, you need to be in the income bracket for it to make sense.
        
        If you are it absolutely makes sense though. It’s definitely a good deal. I have one, total cash out of pocket is significantly lower than purchasing outright, let alone had I financed it (which means that cash sits in my offset instead).
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 15:40
        
        @freefall101: Work out the intrinsic cost of the lease
        
        Usually financing cost of the car is the biggest set back.
        
        Benefit of the money (e.g. sitting in an offset account).
        
        Tax savings when paid with pre-tax money.
        
        Other factors - certainty of your job etc.
        
        Likely there will be net benefit, but this case vary. If you are a government employee, the arrange is very subpar as the mandate NL providers that will try to hide 13% interest rate right with some hefty fees + expensive insurance. Net benefit on government mandated NL provide is minimal and not with the effort.
        
        Someone on here made a calculator to work out the intrinsic cost/benefit and worth using it to get some figures if you don't understand NL.
        
        freefall101 on 12/02/2026 - 16:06
        
        +1
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: I made my own spreadsheet, since I'm a chartered accountant but t's not very hard. Plug in the numbers and your tax rate, it's done. Mapped the entire cashflow, compared to cash up front vs standard loan vs NL loan and rates. For me, the car and lease cost is about $40k after tax out of pocket (including NL costs, 9.25% interest, balloon payment) on a $50k car. So $10k ahead. Paying with cash upfront would be $50k but I'd lose having that sitting in my offset saving 5.5%. No brainer on savings.
        
        Then everything else is at cost, just GST free and paid pre-tax. So I save about another $1,500 a year through that. My insurance I picked, maintenance is straight forward since it's just through BYD, rego and tyres.
        
        SG Fleet told me I'd save $36k, which is rubbish, but the savings are very really. Even if it's 13% interest and a 2% NL fee, it's still hard to beat GST free and 30% tax saving (since most people are between $45k-130k income).
        
        They will try hide the rate early on, but they have to clearly state it in the contract you sign (you can also reverse engineer it easily enough). Government mandated NL doesn't force insurance from the ones I can find, although there is no standard government NL provider, it varies. Do you have an example to compare? That said, that seems a very specific scenario that doesn't apply to most people.
        
        Job security - I changed job and redid the NL with a new company. So long as you're in the space of working for large companies, they're common. But if you lose your job you don't lose the savings from earlier on with the lease, just refinance the loan if it's a crap interest rate.
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 12/02/2026 - 16:23
        
        @freefall101: " I made my own spreadsheet, since I'm a chartered accountant but t's not very hard."
        
        Yes. I would agree. That is how I do it too.
        
        "it's still hard to beat GST free" GST will be added back on at the end of the lease.
        
        The general public is far from being capable for working this out.
        
        Whilst some NL provider caters for non full maintenaned lease, some don't. Many government departments (NSW and Vic State government as an example - nsw health and Vic health) panel NL providers insist it must be a full maintained lease.
        
        It works for some, but also won't work for some.
        
        Generally, FBT exemption on EV (not necessarily via NL) will see some savings. The important things are 1. The individual are aware of the actual cost and 2. Weight up against scenarios of terminating the lease early due to change in employment circumstances.
Wiadro on 10/02/2026 - 10:12

+3

BMW m5 wagon
- SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 11:32
  
  +1
  
  911
  - Wiadro on 10/02/2026 - 11:35
    
    Dakar only
JIMB0 on 09/02/2026 - 23:45

+2

Get an EV if you can charge from work, ideally one with vehicle to grid or at least a power outlet.
tasbargains on 10/02/2026 - 09:54

Atto 2 or a larger car like a Geely EX5 on a novated lease, be sure to get a good finance rate. Huge savings on the car, GST, and also running costs.

Any LFP pack EV is a good bet for something to last a long time, the battery degrades extremely slowly, and the car has few moving parts. I would not bet on a new brand mild hybrid to do the same.
SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 11:25

"but I can charge at work."

OP. Is this a standard 240v 10 amp socket? If it is, forget about EV. 240v with a 8-10amp charger will only get you all 2kWh per hour. So 16kWh for a typical 8 hours business day.
- immortanwayne on 10/02/2026 - 11:26
  
  No, it's a proper EV charger. Costs around $.40 per kw
  - SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 11:31
    
    -1
    
    On that basis. 50kWh will cost $20. A hybrid, assuming 30L of fuel @ $1.7 is $50.
    
    Assuming you fuel/top up every week. That's only $20/week or $1000/year difference.
    
    I find hybrids to be 1.cheaper to service until it hits the 5 year mark for some major items, and generally cheaper to buy for the same size EV.
    
    Can't go wrong either way since the chosen vehicles are relatively cheap.
    
    Something out of the box, a 1-2 years old car might be a good option.
    - brifog on 10/02/2026 - 12:57
      
      +5
      
      Cant see how a hybrid would be cheaper to service than an EV.
      - SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 13:03
        
        -3
        
        @brifog: I own both and I can confirm that to properly look after an EV it doesn't cost much less in the first 5 years. Even at the 10th year mark.
        
        Many EV owners are ignorant claiming no check up or service is required. At minimum the fluids, (gear box oil, brake fluid) to replacing various filters as well running a full diagnose on the electronics and battery.
        
        Most ICE manufacturers provide capped price service that is significantly cheaper than their EV equivalent. Tyre wear is far more rapid on the EV. It is on the same rate as the rear tyre (staggered) of a high horsepower RWD.
        
        D grump on 10/02/2026 - 14:59
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: Avoid EVs with gearbox oil, lol
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 15:48
        
        @D grump: "gearbox oil"
        
        How?
        
        D grump on 10/02/2026 - 16:01
        
        +1
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: What is the gearbox for in an ev?
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 17:03
        
        -1
        
        @D grump: "What is the gearbox for in an ev?"
        
        are you serious or acting dumb?
        
        https://www.drive.com.au/caradvice/do-electric-cars-have-gea…
        
        Single reduction gear oil is a mandatory service item for all EVs.
        
        D grump on 10/02/2026 - 17:11
        
        +1
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: So, some EVs have gears and therefore gearbox and some don't. You can drive wheels directly from the electric motor and I would always choose a car with fewer parts and therefore less maintenance.
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 18:44
        
        @D grump: They all do have gears.
        
        Some single and some multiple (Porsche Taycan)
        
        D grump on 12/02/2026 - 15:02
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: You are right. Hopefully they learn from washing machine manufacturers, they used gears intially but realised that direct drive was better.
        
        klaw81 on 11/02/2026 - 16:05
        
        @SetTheFaqUp:
        
        Single reduction gear oil is a mandatory service item for all EVs.
        
        Some manufacturers might require this, but it's not universally true.
        
        For example, Tesla says their gearboxes are sealed for life and do not require any scheduled maintenance. Some independent shops recommend changing the gearbox oil every 100,000 miles.
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 15:07
        
        -1
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: I also own both and really not sure what you are referring to. My insurance is cheaper than non-EV car, servicing is less because less need for scheduled servicing. The only difference is less cost of running with home charging costing me literally nothing as mentioned above, and NL which puts me further ahead. The only thing is depreciation obviously but I'm not planning to sell every few years and NL and petrol savings more than makes up for it - if you can be bothered buying a 3yo ex rental EV would give you the best of worlds. YMMV, but I'm not sure how you are getting your numbers
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 15:48
        
        -1
        
        @V2L: "The only difference is less cost of running with home charging costing me literally nothing as mentioned above".
        
        Home charging does cost you. Just that you choose to ignore the cost.
        
        "servicing is less because less need for scheduled servicing."
        
        If you choose to believe so. If anything, the reduction gearbox works much hard than an ICE. Then there is water molecure going into the brake fluid regardless whether it is used. I would say it is reckless not to jack up the car for inspection for potential structure damaged on a 12 monthly basi. Then, there is the battery coolant to be maintained.
        
        BMW also not mandating a scheduled service on their ICE cars per se.
        
        "NL which puts me further ahead."
        
        No doubt. But this varies from people to people. For myself, more than one EV held as company asset and getting the full benefit of the EV FBT exemption.
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 15:58
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: I gave you a breakdown of my charging cost above - I don't have solar panels and i've literally not paid a cent in charging last few months, but sure, do tell me what I've been paying.
        
        If you choose to believe so. If anything, the reduction gearbox works much hard than an ICE. Then there is water molecure going into the brake fluid regardless whether it is used. I would say it is reckless not to jack up the car for inspection for potential structure damaged on a 12 monthly basi. Then, there is the battery coolant to be maintained.
        
        you can say that yes, but it's not grounded by evidence nor manufacturer recommendations
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 17:07
        
        -1
        
        @V2L: "I don't have solar panels and i've literally not paid a cent in charging last few months, but sure, do tell me what I've been paying."
        
        Higher tariff on electric plan that would otherwise be cheaper.
        
        For example, powershop offers a flat 30c plan with no free hours of usage, but also offers ones for free hours of usage (called EV plans despite it can be used for anything) with much higher supply charge, peak and offpeak rate.
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 17:31
        
        +1
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: i'm well aware, as I said, it was cheaper than other non EV plan
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 17:35
        
        -1
        
        @V2L: Would it have be cheaper for household electric usage on a lower rate single tariff if not EV is involved? Answer is definitely yes that most use their energy during peak and the rate is double of a single tariff.
        
        Cost is hidden and far from "free".
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 18:25
        
        +2
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: No. I told you what my tariffs were and it was the cheapest plan regardless of EV charging window - in fact I've said this three times but you don't seem to need an answer as you seem so sure of yourself.
        
        Even if it were higher we are talking 5-10% higher bills so 100-200 dollars extra per year for an average household compared to the thousands in savings, this fixation and argument is frankly bizarre
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 18:39
        
        @V2L: I have. Done a quote myself too. When quoting without an EV (only one options is allows when the EV box is ticked). There are two plans available. One with free usage period and one without.
        
        37 vs 27 cents per kw with demand surcharge. Oppose to powrshop with a flat rate and no demand surcharge.
        
        There is no such a thing as "free" electricity.
        
        One Plan
        
        $996/yearly*
        $83/monthly
        Pre paid smooth Direct Debit
        3% interest when in credit**
        No transaction or exit fees
        No free usage window
        Rates
        Prices inclusive of GST
        Supply charge (¢/day):
        103.4
        Peak (¢/kWh)
        27.83
        Off Peak (¢/kWh):
        27.83
        
        Peak Demand (c/kW/day)
        42.343
        Solar feed-in tariff (¢/kWh):
        
        Solar export
        2.8
        
        Free 3 Plan
        
        $984/yearly*
        $82/monthly
        Pre paid smooth Direct Debit
        3% interest when in credit**
        No transaction or exit fees
        Free usage window
        Rates
        Prices inclusive of GST
        Supply charge (¢/day):
        103.4
        Peak (¢/kWh)
        36.74
        Off Peak (¢/kWh):
        36.74
        Super off peak (¢/kWh)
        0
        Peak Demand (c/kW/day)
        42.343
        Solar feed-in tariff (¢/kWh):
        
        Solar export
        2.8
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 20:41
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: has it occurred to you that different people can, in fact, get different quotes? shocking, I know
        
        let's try a 4th time for reinforcement
        
        it was the cheapest plan regardless of EV charging window
        
        Even if it were higher we are talking 5-10% higher bills so 100-200 dollars extra per year for an average household compared to the thousands in savings, this fixation and argument is frankly bizarre
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 21:30
        
        @V2L: Good on you? And that there are people (many, especially ones forced onto smart meter) can't?
        
        33c is far from the cheapest, and that is to compensate the 8c super off-peak usage.
        
        So still end up paying more?
        
        V2L on 11/02/2026 - 00:20
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: electricity quotes are post code dependent too, another learning point?
        
        let's revise this for the 5th time
        
        it was the cheapest plan regardless of EV charging window, so not sure where you are getting this hidden cost nonsense
        
        Even if it were higher we are talking 5-10% higher bills so 100-200 dollars extra per year for an average household compared to the thousands in savings, your fixation and argument is frankly bizarre and laughable
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 08:02
        
        @V2L: @V2L It's ok to admit that very rarely would people get electricity free…. :) You are a lucky chump.
        
        V2L on 11/02/2026 - 08:38
        
        +1
        
        @Naigrabzo: that's the point though, it's not rare and almost everyone living in a house/townhouse can access free/cheap charging that cost a fraction of petrol cost of an ICE
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 08:39
        
        @V2L: @V2L, It is quite rare that people have access to free electricity. and that's ok.
        
        V2L on 11/02/2026 - 08:45
        
        +1
        
        @Naigrabzo: the free charging window and off peak rate plans are available to most of the population that has a credit score. but tell yourself what you need to hear and that's ok
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 09:09
        
        @V2L: @V2L, Everyone can check for themselves with a few clicks right? They can determine if they are getting free elctricity. Everyone tells themselves what they want to hear and that's nothing new.
        
        V2L on 11/02/2026 - 10:27
        
        -1
        
        @Naigrabzo: since your attention may not last you the distance I will remind you the response was to the initial claim there are ''big scary hidden charging costs'' that makes charging somehow as costly as fuel, which is clearly false, before going on an oddly long tangent about electricity tariffs which is hardly relevant nor entertaining
        
        the fact is majority of people can access either free charge window/night off peak rates/controlled load rates that makes a full charge less than 5 dollars.
        
        look if you want to keep driving your ICE just say so, no one cares at the end of the day what you drive, you don't need to justify it to us
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 10:48
        
        -1
        
        @V2L: @V2L, Sounds like you are changing the goal posts from free electricity to $5. This is a very large amount in this forum.
        
        None of the costs are hidden. People can easily check them out.
        
        I never said I drive an ICE. :) Maybe I drive both or neither.
        
        V2L on 11/02/2026 - 14:40
        
        -1
        
        @Naigrabzo: I have not moved it at all, you are the one who decided where the goalpost is, my entire point is charging is significantly cheaper than petrol as opposed to the wildly false and scaremongering statement I was actually responding to before you came along. in my case I do not pay any at all, either way the cost is almost negligible compared to how much it cost to refuel. If you want to anchor on free charging to try to score imaginary points that's your liberty.
        
        Sounds like you are changing the goal posts from free electricity to $5. This is a very large amount in this forum.
        
        you are funny. you know what's a bigger amount than $5 in this forum? $80, which is the average amount for a full tank of a small to med sized car.
        
        None of the costs are hidden. People can easily check them out.
        
        exactly
        
        klaw81 on 12/02/2026 - 10:23
        
        @SetTheFaqUp:
        
        Would it have be cheaper for household electric usage on a lower rate single tariff if not EV is involved? Answer is definitely yes
        
        It's not definitely yes. While it's absolutely possible, it's also not mandatory.
        
        My own case is similar - prior to buying an EV, I was already on the cheapest single tariff plan available to me. I was able to enable off-peak 8c/kWh EV charging as an add-on, without any changes to my other rates.
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 12/02/2026 - 11:30
        
        @klaw81: Not in my instance. Quoted on various properties in Sydney as well in Brisbane.
        
        Doesn't replicate the scarnio.
        
        Good on those that can get the benefit.
        
        Problem with individual circumstances used for comparison leads to non apple to Apple comparison.
        
        Similarly, a friend that owns some petrol stations in the area continue to brag about his "cheap fuel".
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 15:27
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: @SetTheFaqUp, What do you save exactly per year? I did the math and it was $%^& all if any.
        
        Also with the gearbox oil thing, that's a very infrequent service I reckon. To be fair, oil changes on a ICE would be very much more frequent.
        
        I do agree though that some chumps have bought Teslas as early adoptors and are getting remorseful due to massive depreciation. or worse yet, Ioniq 5/EV6 etc which would be really hard to re-sell.
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 11/02/2026 - 16:21
        
        -2
        
        @Naigrabzo: BYD published their servicing cost. So on average cir $450/year for the Seal Performance. I think BYD recommends both the brake and gearoil every two years, gearbox oil filter and coolant every four years. Similar to what you see in an ICE (except for the gearbox oil bit). It is same mineral oil, be it ICE or BEV. If I am to guess, BYD is overkilling with some items and and some other manufacturers are just lacking. It is reckless to at least visual inspection at least every 12 months to jack up the car just to see things are okay.
        
        Atto 3 averages out to be $300/year.
        
        The Honda at home has capped price servicing at $199/year. In the same ballpark as a Toyota under a capped price service arrangement.
        
        Lexus being the most expensive as a daily. A standard oil change $600/year, and any additional work done (spark plug, fuel filter etc).
        
        MX5 averages $550/year with the exception of full fluid change after tracking.
        
        Evo X is a 6 monthly gig or full fluid exchange after a track day. Won't count it in as it would be overserviced as a daily, but not for the way how it is used. Averages out to be $1.5k years (dependant on usage).
        
        Boxster (718) is in the ball park of 30% more than the Lexus.
        
        I don't spare on car maintenance. Numerouse manufacturers claim "sealed for life" gearbox and all proven to be a bogus claim.
        
        Normally. For financial analysis for cost, we use comparable in order to produce a meaningful comparison. So public charger vs petrol station is closer. It is somewhat cheaper with EV, esp with FBT exemption, just not as great as what some claim it to me.
        
        Best is to own it as company asset than use NL provider - this will give the full benefit to the end user. This also eliminates the concern on employment stability.
        
        Frankly. I would probably get an EV as the daily runner without hesitation for those on top tax bracket and able to hold it as company asset instead of via NL.
        
        There are circumstances that NL won't work, even being in the top tax bracket. A classic example is government employees, they usually mandate a few NL provider and only full lease is permitted. These arrangements will see interest rate in the vicinity of 12-15% + very expensive insurance. A few friend being medical practitioners buy and own the asset in their private billing (Pty ltd) portion of their income, no one has taken it out via NSW health's NL arrangement.
        
        NL is rather complex for the general public, and cost of running an EV is often not as cheap as some may claim.
        
        In the grand scheme of things. Amongst friends, I probably waste too much of my time to work out the cost EV FBT exemption as it is in the merely a few thousand (around $6k net saving a year on the Seal Performance) saved a year - not enough for a return ticket for a trip. Just annoyed at NL misleading the end consumer and at the expense of tax payers.
        
        klaw81 on 12/02/2026 - 12:57
        
        @SetTheFaqUp:
        
        merely a few thousand (around $6k net saving a year on the Seal Performance) saved a year - not enough for a return ticket for a trip.
        
        $6k per year is a significant annual saving in car expenses IMO, and something that most households would leap at without hesitation. It would easily cover the cost of my recent two week overseas holiday….I guess we all have different perspectives.
        
        SetTheFaqUp on 12/02/2026 - 13:06
        
        @klaw81: "something that most households would leap at without hesitation."
        
        Indeed. Labour should get rid of this FBT exemption that fattens the commercial sector and replace it with something that will benefit the broader general public.
        1. GST free
        2. Offset again personal tax for 50% of the ATO permitted depreciation and all running costs.
        3. Only allow for EVs under $50k. This will also drum up competition for hybrid and ICEs.
        
        Whilst I am receiving the full benefit of this policy, pxss weak policy and linesup the commercial operators' pockets.
        
        Naigrabzo on 10/02/2026 - 13:30
        
        -2
        
        @SetTheFaqUp: Completely agree re costs. Even insurance, depreciation is higher for EVs. Running costs balances out in the end. In the end, you end up wasting so much time waiting for the thing to charge over the lifetime, while the hybrids just get to enjoy getting to destinations and now constantly worrying about ABC (always be chargin…)
        
        For most poeple, hybrid is the way to go. Who wants to charge at work? Sounds like a real PIA. I just want to park, forget about the car and then pickup when I need to get back home.
        
        V2L on 10/02/2026 - 15:11
        
        @Naigrabzo: if you don't have a house / driveway it's hard to make EVs work. I've not had to wait for charge or looked for a public charger and have not paid for charging for months which is at least a few thousand dollars in fuel I've saved not to mention the hassle of finding and waiting at the pumps
        
        tasbargains on 10/02/2026 - 15:51
        
        @Naigrabzo: on no planet do running costs balance out in the end. stop huffing oil lobby FUD.
        
        Euphemistic on 11/02/2026 - 05:55
        
        @Naigrabzo:
        
        Who wants to charge at work? Sounds like a real PIA. I just want to park, forget about the car and then pickup when I need to get back home
        
        When you charge, you park, plug in and then forget about the car. Its more hassle to go out of your way to go and get petrol.
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 08:01
        
        @Euphemistic: Does this mean you are taking up a charging spot at work for 8 hours? How does the other person charge? How many of these said chargers are there at work??
        
        Euphemistic on 11/02/2026 - 14:07
        
        +1
        
        @Naigrabzo: Workplace chargers should be designed to have a car parked there all shift. If i was providing a car charger for my employee i wouldnt want them to have to go move it during the day. It dossnt make sense to have a stupidly fast charger when cars are going to be there for a long period of time.
        
        That said, we dont know what OPs situation at work is.
        
        Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 14:12
        
        @Euphemistic: That's true. If I was the employer, I wouldn't install any fast chargers (unless the govt paid me LOTS) because it would be unnecessary headaches maintaining them etc. For example, if my organisation had 100 employees, there is no way I will making sure all their cars are charged. That is their own business and they will need to figure those details out themselves.
        
        I also wouldn't install any petrol stations at work either.
        
        Euphemistic on 11/02/2026 - 18:34
        
        @Naigrabzo: Smart emplyoers might install chargers to a number of spaces and perhaps arrange a roster of whos turn it is to charge. Then allow emplyees to move cars during breaks by agreement. It is probably fairly easy to manage an online booking system for chargers.
        
        Lots of people think all public/workplace EV chargers are high power rapid chargers. But its not necessary based on how the parking is used. As above, getting a full charge in 8hrs is perfectly fine, and better for batteries. You only need ralid chargers for where people arent spending significant time.
- Ryk on 10/02/2026 - 20:51
  
  16kWh for a typical 8 hours business day.
  
  so a full charge or more every week at work for just about any EV (64kWh in 4 days/80kWh in 5 days)
  The Atto 2 mentioned has a 51kWh battery. seems ideal.
  - SetTheFaqUp on 10/02/2026 - 21:31
    
    OP has access to proper charger at work. So will be much quicker to top up and in the vicinity of 40-60 per kWh.
    - Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 08:40
      
      If I am the employer, I would 100% want this guy to be checking on his car constantly to check that it's charged…. :)
shxhshzhz on 10/02/2026 - 18:25

The Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid for $27,990 is much cheaper than the other options. 7 year warranty and 8 year battery warranty. As you can't charge at home and the work charger costs $0.40/kWh, it will take ~10 years to cover the extra ~$7000 price of the Atto 2 EV.

The MG uses minimum 95 RON fuel and the Tiggo 7 PHEV still has to be charged.
- Naigrabzo on 11/02/2026 - 09:10
  
  Imagine buying a super cheap car and having to put 95 on it. LMAO!
Ladybugs on 10/02/2026 - 21:00

Prob not a big deal but worth noting that the lead in colour for the Tiggo 4 is red and you have to pay $500 to get white which normally white is standard paint is the lead in base price.
Lunarboogie on 11/02/2026 - 05:35

I test drove the Atto 2 and thought it was fantastic. Super comfortable and perfect size for a small family. I was going to buy the premium variant (circa $40k after ORC) I picked up a second hand Ioniq 5 for the same price. I live in Canberra and so I wanted the ability to access a local dealership for servicing and spare parts etc. I don't hear positive things about BYD and other Chinese brands, especially outside of the major cities.
Sikarion on 07/05/2026 - 11:58

@OP Just curious what you ended up buying and how are you liking it?

Currently in the same boat after a small SUV preferably HEV sub $30k for fuel efficiency. Tested the MG ZS HEV and was satisfied with the drive. Waiting to drive the Tiggo 4 and Jolion.
- immortanwayne on 08/05/2026 - 06:02
  
  +1
  
  Hey! I test drove the Jolion Hybrid, Yaris Cross and the Atto 2. I didn't try the Tiggo 4 as the real world fuel efficiency from online reviews was quite unimpressive.
  
  The Yaris Cross was just crazy bad value. A very small car with no rear legroom and plasticky interior with a very bad infotainment system.
  
  I quite liked the Jolion Hybrid. Very roomy. The interior was quite plasticky again and the driver warnings drove me up the the wall in the 20 mins I test drove it. Good value for money though.
  
  The ATTO 2 was the best of the bunch for me. Very polished software. Very smooth to drive. It was my first time driving an EV and I was really impressed. It's quite roomy, soft touch interior and good tech.
  
  I wanted the Premium version of the ATTO 2 but $38k was too out of my range. I managed to get an ex demo version for $34k. It's been more than a month now. I'm very happy with it.
  - Sikarion on 08/05/2026 - 11:39
    
    @OP Glad to hear it! Unfortunately living in an apartment rules out effective BEV ownership atm.
    
    I found the same issue with the Jolion. Nice car overall, a bit too large for a work car, but the need to turn off ALL the overzealous safety warnings everytime I get in will be irritating.
    
    I did try the MG ZS Hybrid: impressed with the interior and included tech. The drive could be more inspired but it wasn't bad and the boot space was decent for a small SUV.
    
    Planning to test drive the Tiggo 4 today to see what it's like.
- jaboday423 on 07/05/2026 - 13:52
  
  Curious to know how you go about it. Planning to get something similar by end of the year.
JimB on 10/02/2026 - 16:01

-2

"I drive around 50km for work everyday, so a maximum of 300km a week"

Anyone body else find this a little odd.

So you drive a maximum of 50km per week or 2,600km p.a. driving that isn't going to work or back?

Out of the above, I'll get the BYD Atto 2 via novated lease if you can charge it at work.
- immortanwayne on 10/02/2026 - 16:25
  
  Might seem odd but that has been my driving the past year.

Looking for a Small to Mid-Sized Hybrid or EV SUV around $30k

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