With an efficient 1.6-litre petrol engine, electric motor and small battery pack, the Clio E-Tech Full Hybrid produces a healthy 143bhp, yet it can also return up to 67.3mpg with CO2 emissions as low as 96g/km. This makes the Clio a good pick for company-car drivers, as well as people who just need an automatic. However, the electric cars on this list offer the very biggest savings.
On the outside the Clio is as stylish as ever, but now it’s just as impressive behind the wheel. The steering, handling and damping and technology are up there with the very best in class, while it feels just as refined as several cars from the class above.
3. Toyota Yaris
There’s no doubt the Toyota Yaris is one of the racier-looking superminis on the road, although sadly the driving experience is worthy rather than fun. Drive it as sensibly as intended, though, and this hybrid’s eco-credentials should certainly appeal.
As one of the smallest hybrids on sale today, you won’t be surprised to hear the Yaris is economical, and the claimed 68mpg is definitely impressive.
With light controls, the Yaris is easy to place around town or in traffic, but the ride can be a little too far on the fidgety side for some, and there’s pronounced lean in corners if you’re trying to press on. The CVT gearbox works well at low speeds around town, or when driving gently, but if you want to extract maximum performance then it can cause the engine to seem as though it’s revving too hard for the given speed. You soon get used to it though, and the trade-off is those great economy and emissions numbers.
