Hybrid cars are underrated in the local market, seemingly being passed up by consumers in favor of similarly priced midsize SUVs.  

Although many hybrids are compact, they are powered by both a gasoline engine and an electric motor, so their prices get pushed upwards. Two engines for the price of one, simply put.

Another reason for the hybrids' rarity is the local tax break, which doesn't seem to be as generous as those in first-world nations.

But what consumers (and the government) seem to not know are the benefits of the gas engine and e-motor combination. The two power plants work together to achieve double-digit fuel economy figures, and emit half the amount of CO2 compared to pure gas engines.  

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and Toyota Prius are two of the most recognizable hybrids in the world. But here in the Philippines, how do the two green cars differ? 

Power and fuel consumption

The Ioniq Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter CVVT engine, which makes 103hp and 147Nm of torque, from its 42kW lithium-ion battery. Its fuel consumption is rated at 24kpl. The car's aerodynamic body helps it achieve that figure, too.

This Hyundai reportedly emits 102 to 105 grams of CO2 per kilometer (g/km).

Under the hood of the Prius is a 1.8-liter engine and e-motor that when combined, make 132hp and 207Nm of torque. The mill is mated to a CVT with five simulated gears. Its estimated fuel economy figure is 23kpl. 

The Toyota's puts out 94g/km from its tailpipe, reports said. 

Kit and price

At P1.548 million, the Ioniq Hybrid has a wide palette of color options with Phantom Black, Phoenix Orange, Silver, Polar White, and Mariana Blue. 

Highlights of this car's equipment list include the infotainment system with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The "info" part of the system comes from its navigation, and a dedicated button for keeping tabs on the motor, battery, and charging while on the move.

With a price tag of P2.354 million, the Prius shows that Toyota has a way with naming colors. The color choices are Emotional Red, Dark Blue Mica, Silver Metallic, Super White, and Attitude Black. Pearl White is a P15,000 option. 

It's "screens galore" in the Prius interior, with a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 4.2-inch instrument panel with multi-info display. The instrument panel displays the car’s average fuel consumption, trip meter, and system status. 

The steering wheel and seats are wrapped in leather (ironic for an environmentally friendly car), while the audio system is a 10-speaker one from JBL.

Verdict

While Hyundai is relatively new to the hybrid game with the Ioniq Hybrid, Toyota has been dominating the segment since the first-generation Prius was launched in 1997. That first car paved the way for Toyota to "hybridize" its cars across the range. 

So, if you'd like to minimize your carbon footprint, which hybrid should you go for? 

Sure, the Prius is backed by years of Toyota's expertise in the propulsion system, but its fancy equipment may have caused a dent in its price. The Ioniq already covers the basics at a much more reasonable price. 

Photos from Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. and Toyota Motor Philippines 

Also read:

Some hybrids and EVs in the Philippines

Busting the myths behind hybrids