3. BMW i8
A supercar that’s exempt from tax? Incredible but true. Fuel costs will depend on how you use it, though. The i8 is officially rated at 134.5mpg, but because it’s a plug-in hybrid, that won’t be a real-world figure for most people.
Still, early models have an official 23-mile electric-only range (perhaps 15 in practice) and, with typical use of the front electric motor and the charismatic mid-mounted 1.5-litre turbo triple, an overall average of around 50mpg is realistic.
Don’t let the Mini origin of that engine put you off: with 228bhp, the i8 is enthusiastic even when its battery has run out. Better still, its combined petrol-electric forces give it 357bhp, 0-62mph in 4.4sec and a top speed of 155mph. Plus, it still looks and drives sensationally and offers great value for money.
