Saving money on a new car can be difficult, given rising taxes and the challenge of finding a vehicle that can deliver a reasonable mileage while reducing CO2 emissions. However, there are a number of cars that manage to approach both ideals, representing eco friendly vehicles that can be picked up from new and used car sellers. Many of these cars make use of hybrid technologies, whereby they either combine an electric motor and a petrol engine, or employ an all electric battery engine for power, reducing or even cutting out emissions. Some of the top eco friendly cars, in no particular order, consequently include:
1 – Mitsubishi i
This Mitsubishi vehicle delivers around 126 mpg in the city, and 99 mpg on the motorway, and is powered by a lithium ion battery. Its green credentials as an electric car also align with its midsize power, achieving 66 bhp, as well as powerful road handling.
2 – Toyota Yaris Hybrid
A B segment car, the eco friendly Toyota Yaris Hybrid has long been a green favourite. The Yaris makes use of Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, which allows drivers to switch between electric and petrol modes, as well as offering the opportunity to drive in EV mode for added efficiency. With 80.7 mpg, the Yaris is one of the most economical cars on the road.
3 – Ford Fiesta
An eco friendly variation on Ford’s coupe and sedan range, the current Fiesta offers 24 to 33 mpg, and has some of the smallest emissions of any city car. Can be picked up for between £8,000 to £10,000.
4 – Kia Cee’d
This front wheel drive car is available in hatchback and estate models, as well as in petrol and diesel models. One of the most consistently rated cars for safety, the Kee’d comes with a seven warranty, and is particularly recommended for its long distance durability. The 1.6 petrol engine has 133 bhp, and a CO2 output of 97 to 143 g/km.
5 – Nissan LEAF
A battery powered electric, the Nissan LEAF is distinguished by having no emissions, and is among the best hatchback electrics currently on the market. The charge for the electric engine is equivalent to about 99 mpg, with the battery itself reportedly having a 10 year lifespan before wearing out completely.
6 – Lexus F Sport Package CT
A high quality sports hybrid with an eco friendly design, the Lexus F Sport Package CT provides one of the few luxury green cars on the market, and delivers an impressive 134 bhp.
7 – Volkswagen Up BlueMotion
With a three cylinder engine, and powerful acceleration, this Volkswagen can hit 67.2 mpg, and provide 97g/km of CO2, meaning that you avoid road tax and congestion charges on emissions. The model is also set to be expanded in 2013 to include an all electric, lightweight model.
8 – Volvo V40 D2
The Volvo ES type is a family hatchback that provides high quality safety on petrol and diesel engines. It delivers 78.5 mpg, making it road tax free, and is optimised or city driving. Available for around £19,475 new.
9 – Ford Focus 1.0T EcoBoost
A Ford Focus with a three cylinder engine, the EcoBoost has a lighter powertrain, averages a relatively low 27 mpg, but offers reduced CO2 levels of 114g/m.
10 – BMW 3-Series 320d EfficientDynamics
The BMW 3 series is ideal for combining power, speed and efficiency, with a CO2 output of 109 g/km, and the chance to opt for an automatic transmission without an increase in emissions. Ideal for business users, an ECO Pro driving mode further regulates fuel consumption on a 2.0 litre engine.
About the Author
Serena is the daughter of a qualified mechanic and is currently studying to be a mechanic herself whilst doing an apprenticeship at a local garage, following in Father’s footsteps. She would recommend Inchcape Lexus for new and used cars
