Toyota Prius

Prices £24,245–£28,970 Engine 1.8-litre 4cyl petrol-electric hybrid Trims Active, Business Edition, Business Edition Plus, Excel, AWD Economy 58.7–68.4mpg CO2 78–85g/km 0-62mph 10.6–10.9 seconds

“The aerodynamically efficient silhouette has been adopted by rivals for its combination of interior space and low drag”

TOYOTA’S Prius is closely related to the Corolla (see page 50), having the same Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) underpinnings and powertrain. The Prius helped kick off the hybrid revolution, and stands apart as an even more efficiency-conscious choice for family buyers, company car users and taxi drivers alike.

The Prius still boasts its trademark aerodynamically efficient silhouette – a shape that’s been adopted by rivals for its great combination of interior space and low drag. This might not be the best-looking hybrid on sale but it’s certainly one of the most focused. And while it’s not quite as fun to drive as its Corolla sibling, the Prius counters this with comfort; few cars this side of an executive saloon ride as nicely.

The Prius charges its own battery though a combination of engine power and regenerative braking – essentially the electric motor running backwards to top up the battery when the car slows. You can’t travel solely on electric power for very long (the Prius Plug-in will do that) but the braking system can be ramped up to charge the batteries more quickly.

Fuel economy of 68mpg is achievable, making the Prius one of the most efficient conventional hybrids around. Even opting for the four-wheel-drive version doesn’t dent its eco credentials too much.