The Toyota Prius is one of the most distinctive vehicles on sale today, boasting a fresh look, courtesy of the upright headlights and smooth bonnet and bumpers. The large glass area helps, but the car also appears sleek and coupe like when viewed from the side.

The interior is as impressive as the exterior, but Toyota has been careful to pay attention to the practical needs of the modern motorist. Steering wheel-mounted controls are the most distinctive feature. You can operate everything from the air-con to the radio, so rarely need to take your eyes off the road.

As for fuel efficiency, city drivers will be delighted, urban economy gives it a 20mpg boost over even the best turbo diesels. It's exempt from the London Congestion Charge and ultra-low CO2 emissions will also please company car drivers.