I think either car would suit your needs pretty well: if you find they're too small for children and luggage when you have a look at them, then include the Mazda 6 (petrol) estate in your shortlist. You're right to go for petrol power.

I think the Honda will feel livelier, but the hybrid Auris will be more economical if you do a lot of short trips. The frenetic noise acceleration on acceleration put me off the Auris hybrid, which I test-drove a few months ago, but it could suit you if you drive sedately. I like a bit of zing when needed, and it wasn't for me, but it's a good, very reliable car which suits many people.

We've had two Hondas, five Toyotas and three Mazdas from new, and had similar reliability from each.

The last Mazda, a 2007 2, we ran from September 2007 through to the end of April 2012. The only replacement parts aside from routine servicing, was a coli pack and HT lead - replaced under warranty in the first year.

Nope - if we wernt with the honda it would be a manual. We have no real need for an auto it is just that we don't have much choice if we were to go for the hybrid...

M

Like you, I live in rural Devon and have had an Auris Sport Tourer Hybrid since December and love it. Most of my driving is A roads and country lanes as we live nearly an hour from the nearest motorway and having the CVT autobox is a joy - and one less thing to think about in narrow lanes with blind corners. Tha car is large enough for 4 adults and a dog.

Yes, I have changed the way I drive as the eco-meter helps me drive much more economically and I now concentrate on MPG rather than MPH.

I agree that the noise of the electric motor can be intrusive when pushed hard but that's mainly because the car is so quiet the rest of the time. As the electric motor deliveres instant power, as opposed to having to get up speed, it can be surprisingly quick when needed.

As for keeping the car long term - as long as you have it serviced by Toyota for the first 5 years the batteries will be covered for 10 years. Added to that you only have to look at the number of high mileage Prius' being used as taxis in large cities around the world.