SEAT

Despite its sporty image, SEAT has successfully created a range of eco-friendly machines. Sold under the Ecomotive sub-brand, these benefit from a number of tweaks to cut CO2 and fuel use.

The entry-level Ibiza is powered by the three-cylinder 79bhp 1.4-litre TDI diesel from parent company VW. Aerodynamic modifications, weight-saving measures, low-rolling-resistance tyres and a particulate filter mean the car emits only 98g/km. So, it costs nothing to tax.

If you need more space, the Leon hatch gets the same fuel-saving changes, and promises a CO2 output of 119g/km and a £35 annual tax disc. Better still, from January, its ageing 1.9-litre TDI engine will be replaced by a new common-rail 1.6-litre unit with stop-start, energy recovery and emissions of 99g/km. This efficient oil-burner will also appear in the latest Ecomotive versions of the Altea and Altea XL MPV, which arrive in the New Year.

For larger families there’s the seven-seat Alhambra. Under the upright bodywork is a 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI mated to a six-speed manual box featuring taller ratios. A slippery bodykit, low-friction tyres and diesel particulate filter also help the car to achieve 159g/km and 47.1mpg.

So, as it delivers such impressively low fuel and tax bills, Ecomotive is one of the most complete eco line-ups on the market.

BEST ECO BUY: Leon Ecomotive 1.6 (on sale Jan)