Europe’s most environmentally friendly vehicle is a Volkswagen Passat powered by natural gas, according to the FIA-backed Eco Test.
The Passat scored 92 points out of a maximum 100, a score only matched by the new Toyota Prius, which relies on expensive hybrid technology.
The Eco Test takes into account not just CO2 emissions but also harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides.
The Passat was powered by VW’s 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine. Key to its success was the combination of a clean-burning petrol engine and low-pollution natural gas.
