What's the best petrol or hybrid family car?

My mother-in-law is spending more time back in the UK and is in need of a car. The car will be used mainly in a London suburb but it will need to head to Cornwall a few times a year and left for a month or two in the garage. Plus, it will need to cope with golf clubs and grandchildren. Petrol or hybrid seems to be the most sensible. My shortlist is Kia Niro, Skoda Karoq, Toyota Auris or C-HR, Volkswagen Golf, VW T-Roc or Tiguan. Is anything else you’d add? Secondly are hybrids okay to be sat without use for several weeks?

Asked on 14 November 2018 by TCB1

Answered by Andrew Brady
We'd add the Hyundai Ioniq hybrid to your shortlist - it's much better than the Auris, which itself is about to be replaced by the new Corolla. The HR-V might be worth a trip to a Honda dealer, it's a very good all-rounder and our 2018 Small Crossover of the Year. While you're there, take a look at the excellent new Civic. I wouldn't be too concerned about leaving a modern car unused for up to eight weeks, even a hybrid. It might be a good idea to leave the battery charged as close to 100 per cent as possible and consider a trickle charger (although check the owner's manual to see if this is recommended once you've chosen a car). We reviewed this CTEK charger recently and it's very good: kit.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/review-ctek-battery-c.../

Finally, if you're keen on a crossover SUV, I'd also look at the Kia Sportage.
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