Best for reliability

The key to true owner satisfaction is dependability. You can own the most entertaining, comfortable or attractive car on the market, but if you can’t rely on it to get you from A to B without any breaking down, it’s worthless.

So, it’s truly impressive to find this chart is topped by a model with more complicated electrical and mechanical parts than virtually anything else on sale. Toyota’s old-shape Prius has had years to prove itself in the hands of UK drivers, and you have no reliability problems to report.

Eight of the top 10 models in this chart are Japanese, but a new arrival on the podium will cause a stir. The Hyundai i30 has a superb reliability record – and that played a major part in it securing the overall Driver Power crown.

The winners 

1. Toyota Prius (old) – “I was the first to drive a hybrid car in London back in 2001 and it is still going strong and extremely economical - I would not hesitate to buy another one.” Mr Jaime Ng, Hendon, London

2. Honda Jazz (new) – “The Jazz is a brilliant little car. The way the back seats fold gives it a superb load carrying capability and it is totally reliable.” Mr Michael Starling, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

3. Hyundai i30 – “A reliable, practical and stylish car, which doesn't cost the Earth, backed by a 5 year warranty. Definitely happy with my purchase!” Ms Sadia Azam, High Wycombe, Bucks.