How shall we compare the Citroen C3 and the Seat Ibiza? We could consider their styling, practicality, and handling characteristics – or even how much we like their funky little cup holders. Or, perhaps more usefully in this environmentally focussed world, we could evaluate how kind these superminis are to our long-suffering planet. In simple terms, this means fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The cup holders will just have to wait.
The most environmentally friendly Citroen C3 is the e-HDi 90 Airdream VTR+ 5dr. This does everything short of raise a 'save the planet' flag. As such it averages a mighty 78.5mpg, and returns a staggering 88.3mpg on the extra-urban cycle. Even around town this tree- huger manages 67.3mpg. This equates to carbon emissions of only 93g/km, which means that twelve months road tax costs nothing. The Citroen C3 itself is priced at £15,490. Lots of money for the class, but environmentally focused models tend to have price premiums.
The Citroen C3's environmental credentials are clearly impressive, but can the £13,990 Seat Ibiza S Copa 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 5dr respond? The short answer is 'yes'. Its emissions are marginally lower for starters, 1g/km to be precise. This robust run-around also averages 2.2mpg more than its rival – equalling 80.7mpg. On the extra-urban run it returns 91.1mpg, 2.8 more than the French alternative. The Ibiza matches the C3 in town.
The Citroen C3 and Seat Ibiza are both environmental champions. They are strong in other areas too, such as: handling, refinement, and their equipment specifications. But if nurturing all things 'green' is your life-long priority – welcome to the guilt-free Seat Ibiza.