1. Hyundai Kona
The popular Kona has a potent hybrid powertrain, plus an excellent record for reliability and a long warranty. Thanks to a 2020 facelift, it’s also got a smart new interior. It may not be all that slick to drive, and the seats in the back are a bit cramped, but they are big enough for two children. And it is competitively priced.
Most economical version: 1.6 GDi Hybrid 141 SE Connect. Fuel economy: 57.6mpg.
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2. Honda Jazz
The latest version of the Jazz is only available with a hybrid powertrain, and while it may not be quite as efficient as some rivals, it’s still pretty economical. Praised for its compact size, high driving position and reliability, the Jazz is also very practical, with useful flip-up rear seats. It’s not quite as engaging as a Toyota Yaris, but it’s nice to drive and has a smart cockpit.
Most economical version: 1.5 i-MMD SE. Fuel economy: 62.8mpg.
3. Toyota Yaris
This supermini won the 2021 European Car of the Year thanks to its excellent hybrid powertrain giving fuel economy to rival most diesels, while using cheaper petrol. Robustly built and stylish, it has plenty of room inside and lots of kit too. With a ten-year warranty if you stick to a main dealer for servicing, it looks better value than ever.
Most economical version: 1.5 Hybrid Icon. Fuel economy: 68.8mpg.
4. Renault Clio
One of the most economical small hatchbacks on the market, the Clio has the same excellent powertrain as the hybrid Captur. Chic and stylish, the Clio has a beautifully finished dashboard. Throw in good fuel economy plus a fiveyear warranty, and you have a highly desirable supermini. The rear seats are a bit cramped, but it has a big boot.
Most economical version: E-Tech 145 Evolution. Fuel economy: 64.2mpg.
5. Honda Civic
The long-awaited hybrid Civic is sharp to drive, comfortable and practical, with a big boot and plenty of space in the back. On paper it is less fuel economical than the 1.8-litre Toyota Corolla, but a fairer comparison is with the 2.0-litre Corolla, which it trumps on fuel economy. The Civic is also cheaper than the 2.0-litre Corolla, like for like.
Most economical version: 2.0 i-MMD Elegance. Fuel economy: 60.1mpg.
6. Renault Arkana
Like a coupé version of the Renault Captur, the Arkana has the same excellent hybrid powertrain as that car, but stiffer suspension means that it isn’t quite as comfortable. Still, with a sweeping shape, it is more economical on fuel than the Captur – and also the Toyota C-HR, probably its most direct rival, which it beats on power too.
Most economical version: E-Tech 145 Hybrid Iconic. Fuel economy: 58.9mpg.
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