Green cars buyers guide

You want something reasonably green – what should you buy?

Supermini Toyota Aygo

Years: 2005-present

CO2 emissions:109g/km

Average economy: 61mpg

For: Cute looks; great green credentials.

Against: Not very refined; small boot.

Low emissions and impressive economy mean the Aygo makes great sense, either as a new or used buy. There are plenty of used examples at dealers, car supermarkets or private sellers.

Verdict You won’t find a such a new, green car for this kind of money.

Small family car Volkswagen Golf

Years: 2004-2008

CO2 emissions: 163g/km

Average economy: 41.5mpg

For: Fast, fun, and fairly frugal.

Against: Potentially pricey to buy.

It’s not the most fuel-efficient hatchback around, but factor in the first-class build quality, accomplished drive and reliability, and it’s a great package. There are also plenty on the used market and, with a newer model now available, prices are on their way down.

Verdict: Classy yet affordable: the Golf should keep your fuel bills down and a smile on your face.

Family car Mazda 6 1.8 4dr

Years: 2003-present

CO2 emissions: 185g/km

Average economy: 36mpg

For:Classy; reliable; practical

Against: Dealer prices can be steep, so haggle.

The Mazda 6 combines reliability, space and style in an affordable package. The 1.8-litre model is cleaner and greener than the larger 2.0-litre. There’s plenty of choice on the used market.

Verdict: One of the best used cars you can buy is impressively green, too.

Compact executive BMW 316i

Years: 2000-2006

CO2 emissions: 187g/km

Average economy: 36mpg

For: Great image; well put together.

Against: Only higher-mileage cars at this budget.

The entry-level, old-shape 3 Series offers class, great build quality and low emissions for its size. Its 1.9-litre engine provides decent pace, too. The best used deals are at independent garages and in the classifieds.

Verdict: Choose carefully and haggle hard, and you’ll get a great used compact executive.

Executive car Audi A6 1.8T 4dr

Years: 2000-2005

CO2 emissions: 202g/km

Average economy: 34mpg

For: Looks good; well built; refined.

Against: Not the best driver’s car

This A6 is surprisingly green for its size; its turbocharged petrol engine delivers good economy compared with rivals. At this budget, you'll be looking at a car with high miles, but if it has been well maintained that shouldn't be an issue.

Verdicts: This quiet, comfortable long-distance cruiser is a lot of car for not a lot of money.

MPV Ford Galaxy 1.9 TDi

Years: 2000-2006

CO2 emissions: 172g/km

Average economy: 43mpg

For: Big enough for the whole family.

Against: The diesels are popular, so prices can be high.

The diesel Galaxy's fuel economy and relatively low emissions appeal, as do the seven seats and ample load space. There are lots of used Galaxys to choose from, but private sales are the best value.

Verdict: A green people-carrier that's good to drive and well built.

Open top Smart Fortwo Cabriolet

Years: 2002-present

CO2 emissions: 113g/km

Average economy: 58mpg

For: Great in the city, nimble and fun to drive.

Against: Compromised on the motorway The Fortwo cabrio is the cheapest and most environmentally friendly way of getting wind-in-your-hair motoring. Its tiny engine gives adequate performance and low fuel consumption. There are only two seats, but you get a surprising amount of legroom and usable boot space.

Verdict:Small, fun and green.

Sports car MG TF 1.6

Years: 2002-2005

CO2 emissions: 169g/km

Average economy: 40mpg

For: A great British name, and it's fun to drive.

Against: Cabin cramped for taller drivers Fun and economical - and keenly priced following the demise of MG Rover. Later cars were far more reliable than the early cars if properly maintained, and there's a good choice of stock with former MG dealers, independent garages and private sellers.

Verdict: Cheap and green sports car

4x4 Subaru Forester 2.0

Years: 2002-present

CO2 emissions: 214g/km

Average economy: 31mpg

For: Great handling; four-wheel drive.

Against: Too small for serious off-road work.

Off-roaders have a bad environmental image, but the Forester’s compact size means you get four-wheel drive without high emissions. The Forester is also good to drive, has a spacious cabin and a roomy boot.

Verdict:Forester is a reasonably green alternative to large, inefficient 4x4s.

 

 

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