Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year 2023: Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is the 2023 Auto Express Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year, with the Dacia Jogger Hybrid and Toyota Yaris commended
With the model in its 11th generation, there are few names as recognisable as the Honda Civic’s. One of them is arguably the VW Golf, but the Civic is now a step ahead – and its clever hybrid powertrain that delivers claims of close to 60mpg means it won’t break the bank to run.
A cleaner cabin with high-quality materials and a much slicker infotainment system than its predecessor means the Honda is now close to the benchmark in the family car class in these areas. Add in the potential for super-low running costs and prices that start from £33,815 and you have one of the best affordable family cars on sale.
While there are cheaper family hatchbacks, hybrid models are pricey, and none delivers the balance of economy and enjoyment that the Honda does. The Civic’s 2.0-litre e:HEV powertrain serves up a punchy 181bhp, and its electrified automatic transmission doesn’t suffer from the usual CVT foibles of years gone by.
You can add a sophisticated ride and sharp handling to the hybrid Honda’s plus points, while the notchback bodystyle (it’s still a proper hatchback, so practicality is in pole position) compared with more conventional cars such as the Golf ensures the Civic delivers on the promise of space inside. A 410-litre boot means there’s plenty of room for four and their luggage.
The Civic’s breadth of ability and operating window is wider than ever. If you’re considering dipping your toe in the water when it comes to electrification, the hybrid Civic is a great gateway to a world of affordable hybrid motoring.
Our choice
Honda Civic e:HEV Sport (£33,815)
With just one hybrid powertrain on offer, maximum affordability in the Civic range comes in Sport trim. Adaptive cruise control and wireless smartphone charging are standard, while the efficiency, driving dynamics and practicality are common to every model. You can feel just a hint of Type R hot-hatch magic, too.
Commended
Dacia Jogger Hybrid
While Dacia is new to electrification, it’s no stranger to affordability. Adding a petrol-electric powertrain to its seven-seat Jogger family car means it’s a top choice if you’re after affordable hybrid motoring – and there’s no compromise from housing a battery when it comes to interior or luggage space.
Decades of expertise with hybrid power are really paying off for Toyota. The market has moved in the Japanese brand’s favour, and its petrol-electric Yaris supermini is still one of the best and most affordable hybrid cars on sale, while the Yaris Cross delivers the same talents in a small SUV body.
You’ll find all the information on our New Car Awards 2023 winners and the reasons why we chose them on these pages. Just follow the links below to read more…
New Car Awards 2023: the winners
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