Honda Civic Hybrid saloon (2006-2010)

Honda's Civic IMA is a saloon hybrid offering low fuel consumption and tax friendly emissions. The IMA system employs an electric motor to boost the power of the petrol engine: maximum output is 113bhp, peak torque is 225Nm. But the electric motor is comparatively weak, and isn't meaty enough to shift the car from a standstill on its own. Unlike the Toyota Prius, the Civic is seldom powered directly by the electric cells, undermining its clean credentials. Instead, the electric motor operates once you press the brake pedal; coast or come to a standstill. At rest, the engine stops, restarting as soon as you lift your foot.