Hybrid Small SUV Comparison: City vs. Country Roads

This comparison review analyzes six hybrid small SUVs: Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, MG ZS, Peugeot 2008 (mild hybrid), Renault Captur, and Toyota Yaris Cross. The goal was to identify the most enjoyable and fuel-efficient models through two test loops: one urban and one rural.

Technologies:

Honda HR-V: Atypical hybrid system. The Atkinson-cycle engine primarily acts as a generator, directly powering the wheels only at high speeds. 131 hp combined output.
Hyundai Kona: Conventional hybrid with a dual-clutch automatic transmission and paddle shifters. 129 hp combined output.
MG ZS: Unique energy flow management. At low speeds, the Atkinson-cycle engine generates electricity. Above 80 km/h, it directly powers the wheels via a 3-speed automatic transmission. Claims up to 197 hp combined output.
Peugeot 2008: Mild hybrid (48V) with a 145 hp turbocharged engine and a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Conventional engine cycle, less efficient than Atkinson-cycle.
Renault Captur: Original hybrid system with a "dog clutch" automatic transmission, combining four gears for the engine and two for the electric motor. Being replaced with a new 1.8L Atkinson-cycle engine.
Toyota Yaris Cross: Classic Toyota hybrid system with a 3-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine and a planetary gearset transmission. Known for smoothness and efficiency but can exhibit "engine droning" during acceleration. Offers all-wheel drive.

Urban Loop:

Honda HR-V: Smooth and quiet urban driving experience with extensive electric-only operation (estimated 80-90%). Engine restarts are noticeable but subdued. Brake feel is acceptable.
Hyundai Kona: Positive surprise with a smooth and responsive dual-clutch transmission. Engine is quiet. Brake regeneration is abrupt but adjustable via paddle shifters.
MG ZS: Substantial electric running. Engine start-up is noticeable through vibrations and noise but manageable. Natural brake feel.
Renault Captur: Dog clutch transmission is not smooth in urban settings. Engine noise and vibrations are intrusive. Less electric-only operation compared to the MG ZS.
Peugeot 2008: Mild hybrid system struggles in the city. Engine runs frequently, impacting efficiency. Rough engine start-up and jerky dual-clutch transmission degrade the driving experience. AC usage exacerbates the engine's tendency to stay on. Brake feel is relatively natural.
Toyota Yaris Cross: Smooth transitions between electric and engine power. Engine noise and vibrations are present, particularly under load. Mostly electric operation during the urban loop. Brake feel is good.

Urban Loop Fuel Consumption (L/100km):

MG ZS: 5.2
Renault Captur: 4.0
Honda HR-V: 4.3
Toyota Yaris Cross: 4.6
Hyundai Kona: 4.6
Peugeot 2008: 6.5

Rural Loop:

Hyundai Kona: Dual-clutch transmission shines on country roads, providing smooth and quick shifts. Electric operation is less frequent than in the city. Engine noise is generally well-managed. Brake feel is acceptable on the open road.
Honda HR-V: Less impressive on country roads than in the city. Lacks quick acceleration and passing power. Engine noise is intrusive at higher speeds. Transmission behavior is consistent with accelerator input.
MG ZS: Disappointing performance on country roads. The promised 197 hp is not consistently available. A delay in power delivery can occur when transitioning from electric to engine power. Uneven acceleration due to gearbox behavior. Extensive electric-only operation at lower speeds.
Toyota Yaris Cross: Struggles with acceleration and passing maneuvers on country roads. "Engine droning" effect from the planetary gearset is noticeable. Engine noise is prominent at higher speeds. Smooth and comfortable when driven gently. Limited electric-only operation.
Renault Captur: Inconsistent engine behavior. Noise levels fluctuate unpredictably. Engine is noisy and not enjoyable at higher speeds. Performance is lackluster. Some electric-only operation.
Peugeot 2008: Micro-hybrid system provides some benefits over a non-hybrid version. Engine noise and vibrations are present. Dual-clutch transmission remains jerky. Performance is good, with decent acceleration.

Rural Loop Fuel Consumption (L/100km):

Hyundai Kona: 5.6
Renault Captur: 4.8
Honda HR-V: 5.1
Toyota Yaris Cross: 5.0
Peugeot 2008: 5.8
MG ZS: 5.3

Overall Ranking and Conclusion:

Honda HR-V: Excels in urban environments with its smooth, mostly electric operation. Less impressive on country roads due to noise and lack of quick acceleration.
Hyundai Kona: A good all-rounder with a smooth transmission, decent efficiency, and a pleasant driving experience.
Renault Captur: Prioritized efficiency over driving enjoyment. The engine and gearbox combination is not refined, but it delivers excellent fuel economy.
Toyota Yaris Cross: Smooth and efficient in the city but struggles with performance and engine noise on country roads.
MG ZS: Disappointing performance on country roads despite claimed high horsepower. Smooth and efficient in the city.
Peugeot 2008: The mild-hybrid system is not as effective as full hybrid systems. Jerky transmission and noisy engine detract from the driving experience.

This comparison highlights the diverse range of hybrid technologies available and their varying suitability for different driving conditions. The best choice depends on individual priorities and driving needs.