Buyers finally switch on to hybrids

Hybrids are on the charge. Values of the economical petrol-electric models have soared by £478 in the past 12 months, according to the latest figures from price expert CAP. Rising fuel costs and the fashion for eco-friendly models are being credited for the increase.

After three years and 60,000 miles, the average hybrid is now worth 36.5 per cent of its new price, says CAP. In comparison, typical petrol and diesel cars retain 36.9 and 36.8 per cent of their prices respectively.

You can now pick up three-year-old versions of the sleek second-generation Toyota Prius for less than £8,500. We spotted one 2005 05-reg car with 79,000 miles  for £8,495.