THE latest foray into the world of plug-in hybrid cars is the excellent VW Golf GTE, which drives very like the standard hatch but will cover up to 31 miles on electric power alone.

This most expensive car in the Golf line-up, which can be ordered from August, hits the cash register at a staggering £33,750, so you've really got to want one.

Business tax might be the best reason for investing in one, since it only costs 5%, but there are others out there like the Toyota Auris Hybrid that are far cheaper to buy and while not as quick, come with the same kind of kit.

The GTE offers superb acceleration using both its 1.4 petrol engine and electric motor to blast to 62 miles an hour in an excellent 7.6 seconds.

So with this one, you can have your electric car for the commute and enjoy driving at the weekend.

But for that price, you could afford a small car for the commute and a special for the weekend so that you could really enjoy yourself.

The ride is excellent over all surfaces and the extra weight of the battery doesn't seem to be noticable at all.

It grips forever, giving excellent cornering speeds in safety, and the top quality VW power steering system, combined with very good balance, makes the handling brilliant.

As befits a range topper, it comes with all mod-cons, including leather seats, LED lights and 18-inch alloys.

It will only be available as a five-door and also comes with sat-nav,DAB radio and Bluetooth.