Honda Civic
Tired of escalating fuel costs and looking for a super economical hatchback? Geraldine Herbert selects five of the most fuel efficient around.
Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC
Engine: 1.6 i-DTEC
Fuel: Diesel
CO2: 94 g/km
Performance: 78.5 mpg / 3.6 litres per 100 kms
Price: €23,975
We Say: Still light years ahead of the competition in terms of styling, there is a lot to like about the new Civic. With its spaceship styling, excellent fuel economy and roomy interior, it deserves to do well.
Volvo V40 D2 Manual
Engine: 1.6
Fuel: Diesel
CO2: 96 g/km
Performance: 76.3 mpg / 3.7 litres per 100 kms
Price: €29,845
We Say: With stunning looks, delicious interior and incredible technology, the V40 has the potential to change your view of Volvo forever. On the downside, prices are high and rivals offer better overall value.
VW Golf BlueMotion 1.6 TDI 5dr
Engine: 1.6 TDi
Fuel: Diesel
CO2: 98 g/km
Performance: 74 mpg/ 3.8 litres per 100 kms
Price: €23,485
We Say: The Mk7 Golf is a refined, smarter and polished version of its predecessor. Thirty-eight years and 29 million cars later, the seventh generation Golf is the car by which all other hatchbacks should be measured.
VW Golf
Lexus CT 200H Eco
Engine: Petrol / Electric Hybrid
Fuel: Petrol
CO2: 87 g/km
Performance: 74 mpg/ 3.8 litres per 100 kms
Price: €29,575
We Say: Nicely designed both inside and out but on the road it drives too like the Prius to make it serious contender and even when the generous kit is taken into consideration is it still pricey.
Toyota Auris Hybrid
Engine: Petrol / Electric Hybrid
Fuel: Petrol
CO2: 91 g/km
Performance: 72.4 mpg/ 3.9 litres per 100 kms
Price: €26,460
We Say: Smart, comfortable and reliable, the Auris is the one to opt for if low running and maintenance costs are high on your shopping list. Auris fans will love the new model but we are no convinced it will woo too many new buyers to the marque.
Toyota Auris Hybrid
Geraldine Herbert
20th September, 2013
