How ‘green’ are some of Europe’s most popular new cars?

Green NCAP, which tests a new car’s environmental impact and real-world driving performance, is shining a light on the sustainability of some of the continent’s most popular new models.

While manufacturers typically publish data regarding energy consumption, range, and charging times – often labelling EVs as “zero-emission” – Green NCAP says these figures “rarely tell the full story”.

Manufacturing, battery production, distribution and energy sourcing can all bring a significant carbon impact that standard ratings often ignore, according to the tester, adding that simply using a battery to power a motor does not automatically make a vehicle sustainable.

Green NCAP analysis of some of Europe’s most popular cars

Dacia Sandero – Sustainability Rating: 3 stars (59 per cent)

Green NCAP tested the petrol-powered TCe 100 petrol-powered version and found it delivered respectable real-world efficiency. The Sandero performed reasonably well for emissions from the tailpipe and abrasion (tyres and brakes), and its energy efficiency was above average.

However, its greenhouse gas performance fell short of hybrid or electric alternatives. Green NCAP highlighted the benefit of the car’s relatively low mass and straightforward engineering approach. The Sandero demonstrates that affordable conventional cars can achieve respectable environmental performance.

Citroen C3 Hybrid – Sustainability Rating: 3.5 stars (62 per cent)

Green NCAP tested the 110 Hybrid and found that its mild hybrid system brought some gains in efficiency and reduced fuel consumption, especially in urban driving. Overall, the C3 was shown to have low energy consumption throughout its life cycle assessment. While retaining mainstream affordability and practicality, the Hybrid C3 only offers a slight environmental advantage over conventional petrol-powered small hatchbacks.

Volkswagen Passat – Sustainability Rating: 3 stars (52 per cent)

Green NCAP tested the 1.5 eTSI model, which combines mild hybrid assistance with petrol power. While the Passat achieves a respectable three-star rating, its performance varies across the three assessment pillars. It scored reasonably well in the Clean Air index (6.8/10) thanks to effective exhaust after-treatment, but its Greenhouse Gas index (3.4/10) was limited by the inherent CO2 emissions of its petrol engine.

The car proved most efficient during highway driving. Overall, it remains a solid choice for long-distance family travel, and its performance is more than respectable when allowing for the Passat’s size and weight.

Renault 5 E-Tech – Sustainability Rating: 5 stars (94 per cent)

Green NCAP praised the electric hatchback for combining very low operating emissions with efficient energy consumption. The assessment highlighted strong scores across Clean Air (9.1/10) and Energy Efficiency (9.3/10) categories, and a perfect 10 in Greenhouse Gas levels.

Green NCAP’s data suggested Renault’s compact platform and low mass (1453kg) contribute to excellent efficiency, even during the manufacturing phase. The Renault 5 E-Tech demonstrates how smaller electric cars can maximise environmental performance while remaining practical and accessible for mainstream buyers.

MINI Cooper E – Sustainability Rating: 5 stars (95 per cent)

The latest electric version of the Mini Cooper is one of the least impactful cars assessed by Green NCAP. The electric model achieved a remarkably high score, standing out as a leader in sustainability due to its efficient powertrain and compact design.

By balancing low vehicle mass (1,561kg) with a modest 36.6 kWh usable battery capacity, the Cooper E minimises energy demand across all tested conditions, as well as during manufacturing. It scored a strong Energy Efficiency Index of 9.7/10, and a 9.4/10 for Clean Air and 9.6/10 for Greenhouse Gases, with life cycle emissions calculated at a very low 117 g CO2-eq./km.

Green NCAP also highlighted the Mini’s effective recuperation braking, which significantly reduces brake wear and non-exhaust emissions. Overall, it represents a benchmark for urban mobility, proving that “smaller is better” for drivers wanting to minimise their environmental footprint.

Jeep Avenger Electric – Sustainability Rating: 5 stars (96 per cent)

Built on the Stellantis eCMP2 platform, the electric crossover shares its foundation with the Fiat 600e and is rated by Green NCAP using a methodology that allows the transfer of test results to vehicles with the same key technical specifications.

So, like its sibling, it achieves an expected five stars and an overall score of 96 per cent and a perfect Greenhouse Gas Index (10/10). In real-world mild weather, its estimated consumption is 16.4 kWh/100km. However, efficiency could potentially drop in the -7°C cold ambient test, with consumption rising to 24.8 kWh/100km, which might limit its winter test range on mixed roads.

BMW 5 Series – Sustainability Rating: 2.5 stars (46 per cent)

Tested in its 520i mild-hybrid petrol form, the 1,805kg saloon achieved a 2.5-star rating. While it earned a respectable 6.5/10 for Clean Air due to highly effective exhaust after-treatment, its Greenhouse Gas rating (2.7/10) was hampered by high fossil fuel consumption. Real-world tests showed efficiency is adequate for its class, but the 5 Series lacks the energy recuperation needed to compete with more electrified rivals on sustainability.