What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

What's the best hybrid car for a keen gardener?

I have owned Ford Mondeo estate cars for many years. My current vehicle was registered in 2013 but being tall, having hip problems and getting older I am finding it increasingly difficult getting in and out of the vehicle because of the low seating position.

I like the size of the car as I am a keen gardener and carry a lot of tools in the back of the vehicle when travelling to my allotment. SUVs seem to have quite small boots. I am thinking of a petrol hybrid estate - I only travel about 10,000 miles a year. My budget would be £25,000 including the trade-in value of my Mondeo. What do you suggest I buy?

Asked on 4 October 2021 by colfoxy

Answered by Andrew Brady
Take a look at the Honda Jazz Hybrid. It's smaller than your Ford Mondeo but with a slightly higher roofline and seating position, which should help with access. It's also very practical for a small car thanks to its clever 'magic seats' which flip and fold to provide space for your allotment tools.

Alternatively, we'd recommend a Toyota Corolla Touring Sports. It's bigger than a Jazz, with a big boot and a very efficient hybrid drivetrain. You'd have to stretch the budget for a new one but £25,000 will get a good example from 2020.
Similar questions
I need to replace my 2012 Citroen C3 Picasso, I especially like the high driving position and straight up and down hatch which is great for my dog. What do you recommend?
My wife wants to change her car. she needs a 'flat' boot like the Ford B-max she currently has. Can you recommend a similar small or smaller hatchback without a 'lip' that she has to lift shopping etc...
I am looking at replacing a Vauxhall Zafira which is used in a dog walking business. Good things are boot size and the bench seat sliding back and forth which allows one dog at a time to exit under control...
Related models
Silky smooth ride quality, high level of standard equipment, practical and comfortable cabin, hybrid versions are a genuine alternative to diesel.
Very practical. Safe. Cheap to run. More desirable than ever before.