The readers of GUTER RAT and SUPERillu have cast their vote for the most environmentally friendly, safe and economic cars, choosing their favorites from a range of 36 models in the categories “Compact”, “Sedan”, and “Station Wagon/Van”. A special jury award went to Mercedes-Benz for the development of “Diesotto”, an engine concept that combines the consumption benefits of a diesel with the low-emission combustion of a spark-ignition engine.

The Mazda2 won in the category of compact cars. This model was praised especially for its impeccable safety features—unique in a small car—and a weight reduction compared to its predecessor of almost 100 kilograms. The sedan award went to the Audi A4 for its increased space at reduced fuel consumption, new safety systems and a new steering that prevents the car from swerving. Thanks to its practical features and economic, but sophisticated engines that produce more torque despite less cubic capacity, the VW Golf Variant received the highest number of votes in the category of station wagons and vans.

“The honored vehicles and Mercedes-Benz’s Diesotto with a standard fuel consumption of 5.3 liters when mounted in a sedan the size of the S-Class are trendsetting,” commented Werner Zedler, editor-in-chief of GUTER RAT. He emphasized that there were vast possibilities in the field of developing more economic cars that would nevertheless be fun to drive. The competition for the “Most Sensible Car” intends to support this development.