Smiles per gallon

My daughter-in-law will very shortly be choosing another company car. Her current car is a Ford Focus 1.8 diesel (I think). However, she is now considering a hybrid because of VED band A zero tax. Her annual mileage is much less than 10K per year. I understand mpg is not necessarily so clever with these hybrids, so do the maths add up when comparing with a 1.6/1.8 something that has good mpg? Are there other financial considerations for having a hybrid company car?

Asked on 31 July 2010 by TJ Romsey

Answered by Honest John
Hybrids are best in cities or for commuting to cities where they make total sense. The BIK on a new Toyota Auris hybrid on 17" wheels is just 10%, or £1,920. So she'll pay either £480 or £768 tax. No London Congestion Tax. Doesn't get much better than that. Test and video:
www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/toyota/toyota...d Currently, diesels only make more sense for long distance work and more than 15,000 miles a year.
Similar questions
If I buy a new Isuzu Rodeo 4x4 pick-up, do I have to pay £3,000 road tax per year? I'm self-employed/VAT registered.
I am considering an eco and tax friendly company car for a budget of £20k and an annual mileage of 12k. I have seen the SEAT Leon Ecomotive. Do you have alternatives you can recommend in that class?
A friend is thinking of changing her 3-year-old Ford Focus Diesel manual for another car. Could you advise what types of similar mid range cars are available (including the Focus) but with an automatic...
Related models
Much improved 2004 Focus. Great to drive. Comfortable and well laid-out interior. Wide range of engines. Low emission ECOnetic versions offer 55mpg +.
Decent combination of ride and handling that might suit some people better than a harder sprung Golf or a Civic. A few inches taller than a Golf of Focus so easier to get in and out.
Low CO2 emissions and zero car tax. Spacious cabin makes it a realistic family car. Plug-In version escaped London Congestion Charge.