FORGET hybrids, forget electric cars, all you need if you are an eco motorist is one of the latest Volkswagen BlueMotion models.
The best of the bunch is the Polo 1.2 TDI, which can return more than 90mpg on a run making it the ultimate eco warrior of the car world.
But Volkswagen's executive Passat is surprisingly competitive as a green machine returning 64.2mpg on average whilst emitting only 114g/km of CO2.
Powered by a 1.6 TDI common rail diesel developing 105PS at 4,400rpm this car is the most fuel efficient production Passat ever built.
You could be forgiven thinking that only a 2-litre power pack would be beefy enough for this large family car, but the 1.6 diesel is able to tackle any task asked of the Passat BleuMotion, as its performances in either the saloon or the estate testify.
The saloon can reach 62mph in 12.5 seconds (the estate 12.7 seconds) and the saloon's redline speed of 119mph just beats the estate's 117mph.
Aiding and abetting these top class economic figures are aerodynamic changes to the body including bespoke bumpers, side skirts and a rear spoiler to help optimise airflow.
And that's not the end of it. Improvements have been made to the drive train, the ride height has been reduced by 15mm, and 16-inch alloy wheels shod with low rolling resistance tyres help reduce drag further.
All of which add to the buyer appeal of this popular model with the Passat now a household name in the VW stable.
In fact when it first appeared in the UK some years ago such was its popularity that other motor manufacturers used it as the benchmark to produce similar models.
Over the years it has evolved slowly into a first class family car and today the lounge like interiors of both the roomy saloon, and the even roomier estate, are top drawer.
In terms of specification, design and build they are amongst the best matching those found in the likes of Audi and BMW.
Standard equipment includes Climatronic air conditioning, cruise control, multifunctional computer and CD Stereo, whilst leather seating, satellite navigation and other touches of luxury are found on the options list.
Safety has not been ignored either, as standard fittings include six airbags, electronic stabilisation (ESP), and ABS.
As befits an established model such as this, it offers passengers ample head, leg and shoulder room, and the driver a responsive drive, whilst ensuring that all occupants are safely transported from A to B year-in-year out.
With the birth of each new generation it is turning into the almost perfect answer to family motoring - and now that it comes equipped with BlueMotion technology it has become an even better buy.
Prices reflect its value with the saloon costing £19,710 and the estate £20,995.
And for any doubting Thomas's who may still be undecided about the strength in depth of the 1.6-litre engine, there is a 2.0-litre available with a price tag £22,030.
Whichever way you look at it this latest Passat which stands shoulder to shoulder with the best the executive sector offers and beats the lot in pricing and economic fuel use.
That factor alone has got to make it a serious contender for pole position in this rarefied segment were quality reigns supreme.