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Hybrids

What are they? Cars that run on two power sources -- a petrol engine and an electric motor.

What do they mean to me? Your petrol tank lasts longer, you get more miles to the gallon and your fuel bill goes down.

Good if you: Live in a city, don't like the noise of a diesel car

Bad if you: Live in the sticks, are looking for a car that's cheap up-front

Models to check out: While Lexus also sells hybrids in the UK, there are really only two options worth considering from a money-saving perspective: Honda's Civic Hybrid. Both are much of a muchness on the road, but the Prius bags you more social kudos due to its celeb fan club and iconic status.