If you want a Hybrid, but the new cars are out of your league then you only have two real options: Toyota’s Prius and Honda’s Civic-based IMA can both be relatively easily found on the used market.
Toyota Prius
The Prius has runs on a zero emission electric engine from 1-29mph. At 30 mph, the combustion engine kicks in which re-charges the electric motor which in reality delivers an unremarkable 48 mpg. If you have a heavy right foot, the fuel bill may surprise you. If you just tootle around town, the Prius delivers a silent, space-age like driving experience.
What’s the market like?
Launched in 2004, the early MKII Prius models now have 57,000 miles on average and cost £6,300 - £7,000 for the best examples. A 2006 car will have average mileage of 34,000 and be £9,800 -£10,800. Although some Supermarkets have rows of them and may well accept a lower offer.
Honda Civic IMA
The IMA feels and drives much more like a normal family saloon. It requires a degree of driver care to benefit from the IMA’s hybrid technology as the combustion engine continually comes on and off to deliver power for accelerating, pulling away or gradients. But as soon as the car can cruise on the flat, it switches to the electric motor (under 30mph). So you develop a style of building up to speed then lifting slightly to get the “free miles” from the electric motor as you cruise.
What’s the market like?
The earliest models, from 2006 will have around 20,000 miles on the clock, mainly from town driving and short commutes. £10,000 - £11,000 will allow you to buy one from a main dealer, which means you know it has been thoroughly checked, had any recalls or updates and comes with a 12 month warranty.