HONDA HRV FROM $34,900

Honda’s HRV e:HEV X (that’s code for hybrid, in case you were wondering) costs $39,900 drive away.

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A non-hybrid Vi X model, with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, is $34,900 drive away.

There's also a better equipped HRV e:HEV L at $42,900.

HRV's e:HEV system features a 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors — one for drive, the other for generating electricity to keep the small-capacity lithium ion battery charged. You don’t need to plugin to recharge. A CVT transmission turns the front wheels.

HRV is a true series/parallel hybrid in that the battery alone can provide power — enough to get you out of your driveway, at least, or launch you a few metres from the lights on a gentle throttle — before the petrol engine kicks in and does most of the lifting thereafter. A surge of voltage adds extra oomph when you put your foot down. The car's software decides where from and how much motive power is required. You cannot select EV mode, because it would be pointless.

The battery does not have the capacity to be the sole power source for extended driving.