With the double whammy of the recession and shrinking incomes, the importance of investing in an economical vehicle has become the norm. As consumers step on the brakes on expenses, car manufacturers have responded by letting loose a new breed of automobiles that are small, cheap, and miserly when it comes to fuel consumption.
1. Smart Fortwo cdi 86g/km CO2
Taking pole position is the Smart Fortwo cdi which earns an enthusiastic thumbs up with an impressive 85.6 miles tothe gallon. The compact two-seater runs on diesel and has the lowest CO2 emissions at a mere 86g/km.
2. Toyota Prius T3 89g/km CO2
The T3 version of the world’s original green car is a petrol-electric hybrid that turns in 76 mpg with CO emissions of just 89g/km. The new Prius also sports smaller 15-inch alloy wheels which make it more aerodynamic and aids in fuel economy.
3. Toyota Auris HSD 89g/km CO2
After the Prius, Toyota scores a double for fuel efficiency with the new Auris hybrid. Its 1.8-litre petrol engine plus electric battery pack make it extremely eco-friendly. Most important, it’s capable of reaching 74.3 mpg at only 89g/km of CO2 emissions.
4. Skoda Fabia Greenline II 89g/km CO2
The entry from Volkswagen sports the same 3-cylinder, 1.4-litre TDI diesel engine as its sisters Ibiza and Polo. It travels 83.1 mpg while emitting just 89g/km of CO2. Apart from the fuel economy, its 5-seater configuration also provides more passenger and luggage space.
5. Volkswagen Polo Bluemotion 91g/km CO2
Volkswagen delivers again with the second generation Polo Bluemotion. The extremely economical car packs even more fuel-saving features. It averages 80.7 mpg with 91g/km of CO2 emissions. It could also travel up to 850 miles before being refueled.
6. SEAT Ibiza Ecomotive 92g/km Co2
With its combination of 79bhp three-cylinder engine, 79 mpg performance, and 92g/km CO2 emission, the Ecomotive is an pretty smart and economical package. What’s more, its attractive front design, low-rolling tyres, and lowered suspension make it extremely aerodynamic.
7. Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 CDTi 95 Ecoflex 98g/km Co2
The Corsa Ecoflex CDTi sports the same engine as its original version but has been upgraded to 94bhp with five-speed transmission. This previous engine of the year winner also now reaches a much improved 76.3 mpg while emitting only 98g/km of CO2. The Corsa is definitely one of the best buys in its class.
8. Ford Fiesta Econetic 98g/km Co2
The Ford Fiesta Econetic combines fuel economy, low emission, and superior driving entertainment. Its 89bhp, 1.6 TDCi diesel engine was tweaked from the Ford Fiesta model. The green enhanced version turns in 76.3 mpg with CO2 emissions of just 98g/km.
9. Renault Clio eco2 98g/km Co2
Renault makes the green list with the Clio eco2. It features an 86bhp, 1.5-litre diesel engine that is capable of getting 76.3 mpg while emitting a respectable 98g/km of CO2. Aside from its fuel economy, the Clio eco2 incorporates other features such as improved engine electronics, low-viscosity oil, and a noticeably taller gearing.
10. Toyota IQ 1.0 – 99g/km CO2
Despite its size, the Toyota IQ offers a nice package of features and performance. Its 68bhp, 1.0-litre engine performs well and can achieve 65.69 mpg with 99g/km of CO2 emissions. The micro-car can also comfortably seat two people.
There are a number of electrical cars in the automotive market at the moment. Electrical cars help to control the amount of carbon emissions and are being highly promoted at present and are encouraged by governments around the country. The Ampera is one of the top electrical cars to keep an eye out for



