Top 10: Best Hybrids
Hybrids make a lot of sense for lower mileage drivers and those who sit in traffic. This is where you'll get the benefit of running on electric power only, while the petrol engine means you can still cover longer distances. Here are the top 10 most popular on the site.
Toyota RAV4
Toyota's dominating this top 10, but that's no surprise - the firm's been pushing its hybrid models since the UK launch of the original Prius in 2000. The RAV4 is now in its fifth generation and better than ever thanks to its solid build quality and sophisticated petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.
Honda CR-V
The hybrid version of the latest Honda CR-V is expected to account for half of all sales. It's not surprising, really, as it combines low running costs with a heap of practicality and a reputation for reliability. The downside is the price. It starts at nearly £30,000 for the entry-level S model.
Kia Niro
The Kia Niro is a practical, family-friendly crossover that just so happens to feature a hybrid powertrain. It feels just like a more conventional car to drive, which is good. Officially it returns 58.9mpg, with our readers reporting pretty close to that on average.
Toyota C-HR
The Toyota C-HR combines bold looks with low running costs and a reputation for reliability. Combining a 1.8-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, the C-HR hybrid officially returns between 55.3 and 57.3mpg - and our Real MPG data suggests that's fairly realistic.
Hyundai Ioniq
The Hyundai Ioniq is unusual in that it's available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electrical-only. For those seeking an alternatively-fuelled car, the Ioniq is an interesting alternative to the Toyota Prius. It’s competitively priced, very well-equipped and provides options to suit most types of driving.
Toyota Corolla
At a time when more car buyers than ever are considering a hybrid, the Corolla is a car that can be legitimately recommended for reasons other than its eco-credentials. It's loaded with kit, has a comfortable interior and - surprisingly - is good to drive. Combine that with low running costs and Toyota's superb reliability record, and it makes for an excellent purchase.
Lexus NX
When Lexus introduced its trendy NX crossover in 2014, it snubbed diesel engines in favour of a petrol and hybrid line-up. The hybrid shares the RAV4's setup, using a 2.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor to produce 197PS. It's pretty good, apart from its slightly frustrating CVT gearbox.
Toyota Prius
You'll love or hate the looks of the latest Toyota Prius, but it's a car that's never shied away from being divisive. It's packed with technology, while a spacious interior makes it a good family car that's cheap to run. As well as the standard hybrid Prius, there's a plug-in hybrid version with an electric range of up to 39 miles.
Toyota Yaris
It may be getting long in the tooth, but if you want a small hatchback with a good reliability record and relaxed driving dynamics, the Yaris Hybrid is a very good choice. We think it's the pick of the Yaris range. Of course being a Toyota it's guaranteed to be reliable and gets a five year warranty too.
Toyota Camry
Toyota may have ditched the Avensis from its line up the return of the Camry name means there's still a family saloon in its range. The Camry is hybrid only, powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine which gives it strong performance with good economy.