Feature article
Toyota Aqua Hybrid Review: Buying Guide
The Toyota Aqua Hybrid is a reliable, economical model in NZ, known for its self-charging hybrid tech since 2011.
Last updated: 2 December 2024
The Toyota Aqua Hybrid is a popular model here in New Zealand as it's super economical and highly reliable. This small ‘self-charging hybrid’ hatchback has been around since 2011. It was sold new here as the Prius c (that’s c for city, it being the smallest hybrid Toyota offered then, and the junior member of the Prius family) but many more have entered the country as used imports from Japan, where it is called the Aqua.
The first generation model was long-lived, lasting until 2020. As such, it was facedlifted in 2015 and Toyota gave it a second facelift in 2017.
It was a successful model for Toyota with 1.8 million sold around the world, 1.5 million of those in Japan, which is why there are so many used import Aquas here in New Zealand.
Hybrid hatch
The Aqua features a third generation hybrid synergy drive powertrain with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, high voltage battery and motor generator setup. It's rated to 74kW but more important are the fuel consumption figures, which are a low 3.9L/100km.
Toyota's hybrid system means at low speeds and in traffic, the engine can switch off completely and you can power along just on the electric motor. This is what delivers excellent fuel economy, especially for city users. And there’s no need to plug it in to charge the battery, the hybrid system does all that for you.
Being small and lightweight helps fuel economy while also making Aquas easy to drive. With a turning circle of just 9.6m, the Aqua boasts excellent maneuverability.
Second generation Aqua
A second generation model debuted in Japan in 2021 using the same platform and mechanicals as the Toyota Yaris that is sold new here in New Zealand.
The updated hybrid drivetrain delivers an 85kW output while economy improves further, down to 3.3L/100km. The second generation Aqua is a little bigger but still a small car with an overall length just over 4m.
Given the dimensions, you can't expect huge amounts of space but intelligent packaging means rear seat passengers have enough room, though it's more of a four-seater; three in the back is a real squeeze. It’s also a little low on boot space.
Aqua - reliable and safe
As with most Toyota hybrids, the Aqua has a good reliability record with nothing major to worry about as long as you maintain it regularly. One thing to be wary of is insurance premiums. The Toyota Aqua is one of the most stolen cars in NZ, with some targeting the hatch for its catalytic converter which is valuable when scrapped. As such, many insurance companies have hiked premiums on the Aqua.
In terms of safety features, early cars have a fair amount of passive safety including vehicle stability control, ABS, brake assist and seven air bags which includes a driver's knee airbag.
The second generation model is better equipped with more active safety features including forward collision warning, auto braking, lane departure warning, active cruise control and speed sign recognition.
Toyota Aqua price in NZ
Early models can be had for as little as $5000 but mileage will likely be high. They are popular with Uber drivers afterall. The Aqua might not be the cheapest small car on the market, often more expensive than similarly sized hatches, as its reliability and economy make it popular. But there are plenty to choose from priced around the $7k-$10k mark. There are often more than 1600 listed for sale on Trade Me. Newer models are more expensive with low mileage 2023 cars going for around the $25k mark.
Author
Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.
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