HPI has drawn up a list of the petrol hybrids with the strongest residual values.

The Toyota Prius tops the chart, retaining 69.4% of its original value after two years and 20,000 miles.

The Lexus LC comes a close second, holding 68.4% of its value over the same period and the Toyota C-HR retaining 67.2% of its average new price.

Registration volumes in the petrol hybrid sector have grown by 30.9% between Oct 2017-18 and account for 3.8% of all motoring registrations, according to SMMT vehicle data.  

Chris Plumb, editor at HPI, said: “The popularity of hybrid cars continues to grow and they are becoming increasingly more visible on the UKs roads. All the major manufacturers have embraced hybrid technology and are producing vehicles to meet the demand for both commercial and personal use.

“Although still relatively expensive to buy outright, the benefits of driving a hybrid including economy and environmental advantages, are beginning to make drivers think twice about investing in a used vehicle. High mileage and poor condition examples should be avoided as they are a turn-off to second hand buyers. Finally always make sure you pick a vehicle with a full service history.”

20 best petrol hybrid depreciators at two years and 20,000 miles: