Lexus

While it doesn’t have a dedicated eco sub-brand, Lexus doesn’t need one – because it’s a hybrid pioneer!

Bosses want to move to selling petrol-electric cars alone in the near future, and have taken a step towards that by offering the new RX SUV exclusively as a hybrid.

This is only possible because Lexus and parent firm Toyota are technologically so far ahead of the rest. Petrol-powered versions of the GS and LS saloons are also to be phased out, which will leave the BMW 3-Series-rivalling IS as the only conventional model in the line-up.

The potential of the drivetrain is clear for all to see. The latest RX 450h emits 148g/km of CO2 – a simply incredible figure for a 4x4 that tips the scales at more than two tonnes.

Also, the range-topping LS 600h luxury car compares very well with its main class competitor – it puts out 219g/km, while the Mercedes S600L emits 340g/km.

Of course, these low CO2 ratings help make Lexus models appeal to the wallet, as they translate into relatively low tax bills.

But decent fuel economy is another major benefit. In a recent twin test, the RX 450h returned 27.1mpg – which was comprehensively better than the diesel-engined BMW X5 it was up against.

So there’s no doubt that advances in hybrid technology have taken Lexus right to the top of the eco tree!