Motorists up and down the UK are likely to be feeling the pinch when it comes to the costs of car ownership right now, so what better way to save some much-needed cash than by investing in one of the nation's most eco-friendly and fuel-efficient models?
A wide array of green vehicles are available on the market today and therefore drivers keen to do their bit towards making the country a greener place to live are literally spoilt for choice when it comes to investing in a new car.
Indeed, efficiency improvements are taking place all the time within the automotive sector and manufacturers continue to push the boundaries with new technologies to make the act of driving ever more sustainable.
Here is a short breakdown of some of the best green motors on the market right now.
VW e-Up!
Volkswagen's e-Up! features a full-electric drivetrain serviced by a 60 kW motor capable of delivering 81 horsepower and a top speed of 80 mph (129 km/hour).
While not the fastest vehicle on the market right now, its green credentials remain second to none, with an equivalent fuel efficiency of 216 mpg.
Perhaps somewhat limited by its driving range of just 93 miles between charges, the lack of emissions from this vehicle make it the perfect choice for individuals keen to say they are doing all they can to protect the environment.
A full recharge for the e-Up! will take approximately six hours, although a fast-charge to 80 per cent can be achieved in just 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, it has five doors and four seats, making it an ideal car for families, while its exemption from congestion charging makes it even more economical to run for those living in London and the surrounding areas.
Mazda3
The Mazda3 is another contender when it comes to offering excellent green credentials for buyers right now, but this model offers that bit more oomph under the bonnet in comparison to the previous vehicle as a result of its 2.2-litre, 148 horsepower diesel engine.
It features a top speed of 132 (212 km/hour) and acceleration from zero to 60 mph in eight seconds. At the same time, the vehicle delivers fuel efficiency of 72 mpg and low emissions of 104 g/km of CO2.
While not as ecologically-friendly as the e-Up!, the Mazda3 will remain a firm favourite with business buyers keen to own a stylish model capable of cruising the motorways of the UK with relatively low cost and hassle.
Citroen C1
Finally, the Citroen C1 offers a middle ground between the two previous vehicles for those keen to both save on running costs and help the environment, with the 1.0-litre petrol city car offering both three and five-door options for buyers and being the cheapest option out of the three.
The C1 offers fuel efficiency of 67 mpg and emissions of 97 g/km of CO2, while in terms of performance its 68 horsepower delivers a top speed of 98 mph (158 km/hour) and acceleration from nought to 60 in 14.6 seconds.
Posted by Emma Grange