Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is in its 12th generation now and remains not just a popular choice amongst British taxi ranks, but globally too. Toyota’s family hatch comes in both hatch or estate bodystyles and relies on a choice of two hybrid powertrains – a 1.8-litre or 2.0-litre with 138bhp or 193bhp respectively (though a 2025 update will drop the 2.0-litre down to 176bhp).
The real reason why the Corolla has become such a powerhouse in the UK is its excellent efficiency – which has seen it steal sales from its Prius brother. Both engines can return 64.1mpg on a combined cycle, the best of the mild hybrids available on this list. As if that wasn’t enough, the Corolla is also far better-looking than many of its predecessors, steers well, soaks up rough roads nicely, and boasts build quality that’s at least a match for any other car in the segment.
Honda Civic
You get the sense that Honda really tried with the latest-generation Civic. The interior especially looks slick (despite a relatively dinky nine-inch touchscreen) and feels sturdy with premium materials used throughout – which is all for the best, given the Civic range’s starting price these days.
With the exception of the brilliant Type R hot hatch, every Civic uses the same 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain. It’s a clever set-up that packs two batteries, two electric motors and a CVT to provide efficiency and smoothness. Some of that finely tuned balance from the Type R must have filtered down to the hybrid model, because it’s surprisingly agile on the road. True, the space in the rear seats isn’t the best, but pop open that rakish bootlid and you’ll find a healthy 410-litre capacity back there.
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